In this short documentary, we meet the team and chronicle a small part of their mission. The team is called out in pairs, often at short notice, and works alongside the Kosovo Security Force and the Kosovo Police to ensure explosives that pose a danger to local communities are dealt with quickly, safely and permanently. Footage includes shots of the EOD team on an active mission to clear mines with the Kosovo Security Force, training with the Kosovo Police and training at Camp Bondsteel, a US Army base under command of KFOR.^I

For over 20 years, NATO has had a military presence in Kosovo. Today, the Kosovo Force (KFOR) – the NATO-led mission mandated under United Nations Security Council Resolution 1244 of 1999 – continues to play a key role. KFOR's mission is to contribute to a safe and secure environment and freedom of movement for all communities in Kosovo; support the development of a stable, democratic, multi-ethnic and peaceful Kosovo; and help with the development of the Kosovo police and security forces.

MEET THE TEAM

First Lieutenant Taylor Martin
Commander, US 720th EOD Company

"We're bomb technicians, to put it simply. In general, it's a pretty dangerous profession. It means a lot to be here in Kosovo."

Sergeant First Class Benjamin Arold

"You put the bomb suit on. It's just you and your thoughts. Just thinking about what you're about to do next, what you're trying to protect around you."

Staff Sergeant Zachary McLain

"To be part of this team, for me, is one of the highest honours that I have. Others trust me with their life and I trust them with mine."

Staff Sergeant Andrew Himple

"We are here to protect the people of Kosovo."
 

Sergeant Nicholas Schleicher

"Basically anything that blows up, we take care of."

Specialist Kyle McLaughlin

"Being a member of this EOD team is everything. It's what I've wanted to do my whole life, so being here is like a dream come true."

Specialist Nicole Powers-Trimolt

"Everyone trusts each other, so we know that we have each other's back."

Specialist Giovanni Pando

"We're just like a family. I don't even look at it as work."