Explosive Ordnance Disposal Group (EODGRU) 1 welcomed its newest leader during a change-of-command ceremony at Naval Amphibious Base Coronado on Jan. 24.
Capt. Wade Hilderbrand relieved Capt. Ken “K9” Kleinschnittger in front of friends, family and military personnel during an outdoor ceremony.
Kleinschnittger said the opportunity to work with the civilian and military personnel at EODGRU-1 and its subordinate commands was a highlight during his time as commander.
“You are why people like me stick around. The things you do are so meaningful and important, and we’re blessed to be able stay around you,” said Kleinschnittger, whose next assignment will be at Navy Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC) in Little Creek, Va.
EODGRU-1 is a critical part of Navy Expeditionary Combat Command that clears explosive hazards to provide access to denied areas, and it employs advanced tactics and technologies to exploit and secure the undersea domain.
Commander, NECC Rear Adm. Bradley Andros used his keynote speech to discuss the importance EODGRU-1 plays in supporting national objectives and priorities.
“You are warriors who are carrying out some of the nation’s most demanding tasks in the some of the world’s most complex, remote and austere locations. Every day you give the fleet our very best,” said Andros. “We rely on you in countless occasions and demanded that you succeed in constantly evolving and sometimes unpredictable circumstances.”
Hilderbrand said he was honored to be a part of EODGRU-1 and thanked Kleinschnittger for his leadership.
“K9, under your leadership, the EODGRU-1 team has made numerous significant accomplishments. Thank you for your dedication to this command and to the EOD force. It is an honor to serve the EOD community in this role, I appreciate the opportunity, and I am very much looking forward to it,” said Hilderbrand.
This story came from Lt. John Mike and the Defense Visual Information Distribution Service in partnership with the Navy.
