About this Unit
The 172nd Ordnance Detachment is a specialized unit of the United States Army with a primary mission focused on explosive ordnance disposal (EOD). Activated in the mid-20th century, the detachment has provided critical support in identifying, rendering safe, and disposing of hazardous munitions during both peacetime and combat operations. Throughout its history, the 172nd has deployed in support of major conflicts, including operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, where it played a vital role in counter-IED missions and safeguarding military personnel and civilians. The unit continues to uphold a legacy of technical expertise, courage, and service in support of U.S. Army operations worldwide.
Historical Facts
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Specialized Mission: The 172nd Ordnance Detachment is a specialized Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit in the United States Army, trained to detect, disarm, and dispose of explosive threats, including IEDs, unexploded munitions, and chemical ordnance.
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Vietnam War Service: The 172nd Ordnance Detachment was activated during the Vietnam War and played a vital role in clearing mines and unexploded ordnance to protect troops and civilians.
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Presidential Unit Citation: The detachment has been recognized for its exceptional service, including receiving the Presidential Unit Citation for its performance under hazardous conditions.
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Deployment to Southwest Asia: The 172nd deployed during Operation Desert Storm in 1990-1991, where it provided critical EOD support to coalition forces in the Persian Gulf.
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Global War on Terrorism: Members of the detachment have served in Iraq and Afghanistan, supporting counter-IED operations and protecting both military and civilian lives.
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Technical Expertise: The unit is trained to handle conventional, chemical, biological, and nuclear ordnance, making it one of the Army’s highly technical units.
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Joint Operations: The 172nd often works alongside other military branches, federal agencies, and local law enforcement in homeland security and anti-terrorism missions.
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Training and Readiness: Soldiers in the detachment undergo extensive schooling at the Naval School Explosive Ordnance Disposal (NAVSCOLEOD), demonstrating the high level of expertise required.
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Public Safety Missions: The unit is sometimes called upon for bomb threat responses and safe disposal of old munitions found in communities, contributing to public safety.
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Legacy and Traditions: The 172nd Ordnance Detachment is part of the U.S. Army’s proud EOD tradition, symbolized by the distinctive “crab” EOD badge and the motto “Initial Success or Total Failure.”
