Swedish Navy Visits Riverine Squadron and Navy EOD Unit

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va (NNS) -- Rear Adm. Jan Thornqvist, chief of staff of the royal Swedish navy, and other Swedish navy guests visited Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story March 6 to observe demonstrations from the Navy's Coastal Riverine Force and Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD).

The visit showcased the Navy's expeditionary forces' capabilities and provided Thornqvist with an opportunity to interact with the Sailors who make these operations possible.

Thornqvist visited a Riverine Command Boat from Coastal Riverine Squadron (CORIVRON) 4 followed by a visit to Explosive Ordnance Disposal Training and Evaluation Unit (EODTEU) 2 where he toured the Full Immersion Scenario Trainer (FIST) and chemical training building.

With a heavy background in mine countermeasures the visit held a personal significance to Thornqvist.

"My background is in EOD so coming here has been something special," said Thornqvist. "To see so many professionals demonstrating who they are, and the level of training and education is incredible."

The visit was as much about showcasing the capabilities and dedication of maritime expeditionary forces as it was about building positive relationships for the future.

"We want to make sure others know we're willing to share the training and lessons learned we've established throughout the years," said Rear Adm. Michael P. Tillotson, commander of Navy Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC), who accompanied Thornqvist during the visit.

In parting Thornqvist expressed his gratitude for being invited and praised the EOD and the United States military for the work they do around the world.

"You should be proud, all of you, for what you are achieving," said Thornqvist. "We see the United States as a coalition partner and something we always look up to."

For more news from Explosive Ordnance Disposal Group 2, visit www.navy.mil/local/eod2/.