The Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit of the Irish Army was established as part of the Ordnance Corps in 1973 following the spillover of ‘The Troubles’ in Northern Ireland into the Republic.
Members of the Corps had dealt with unexploded bombs and sea mines from the Second World War, but now even more highly trained officers were needed to deal with the growing campaign of terror that threatened the security of the State.
The book provides a fascinating account of the history of the Ordnance Corps, including its operation overseas in peace-keeping missions, and explains clearly for lay readers all the technical aspects of bomb-disposal. Much of the story is told by those directly involved. They recount their experiences without any sense of self-importance or recognition of their own bravery; they are too grounded for that and often, with a good dose of black humour, are self-deprecating about their achievements and honest about their mistakes.
