Members of the Japanese Ground Self-Defense Force examine

Members of the Japanese Ground Self-Defense Force examine a bomb-proof suit on display used by the 3rd Explosive Ordinance Company at Building 5636 on Camp Foster Dec. 8. They took part in a study program that allows for the 101st EOD Unit and the 3rd EOD Company to learn from each other and improve interoperability between the two forces. The suit is designed so that most blasts will not kill the EOD personnel trying to diffuse the bomb. The hands are left exposed so that there is no interference in trying to dismantle the bomb and allows for minimal harm. The 101st EOD is Japan’s largest unit of its type and is headquartered in Naha, Okinawa.