Initial Success or Total Failure Motto Threatened

Pensacola, Florida The unofficial motto of EOD has been "Initial Success or Total Failure" which is meant to reflect on the life or death consequences of performing EOD work. The motto is widely used throughout the community and even posted on the classroom walls of the Navy's EOD School based at Eglin AFB.

However, the motto has been removed from the EOD school walls based on an order issued by Rear Admiral Tillotson. The Admiral believes the motto could be viewed as disrespectful and insensitive to all of the EOD technicians who have died or have been wounded in the line of duty.

A statement released by the Admiral over the decision read "Throughout history many EOD techs from the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, other U.S. government and civilian agencies, as well as foreign partners have lost their lives or been wounded in the line of duty. To imply that they failed is insensitive and disrespectful. We owe our fallen warriors and their families honor and dignity for their heroic service". The Admiral is reportedly especially concerned about the hundreds of family members who visit the school each spring when the names of the fallen are added to the EOD memorial.

The Navy order only applies to the walls of the school house and other public areas of the building. The Navy has not extended the ordered to personal items such as coffee mugs. The decision has sparked a lively debate among the EOD community. Tell us what you think about the order by posting a comment below.