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Dec 07 2025
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⚓️ Pearl Harbor Day ~ A Legacy of Courage!

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Pearl Harbor Day – A Legacy of Courage

On this day of remembrance, the National Explosive Ordnance Disposal Association honors the heroes of December 7, 1941. The attack on Pearl Harbor changed the course of our nation, calling forth extraordinary courage from Sailors, Soldiers, Marines, Airmen, and civilians who faced devastation without hesitation.

For those of us in the EOD community, this day carries added meaning. The aftermath of Pearl Harbor marked the early formation and rapid expansion of U.S. Bomb Disposal units—teams who stepped forward to confront unexploded ordnance, protect their fellow service members, and pioneer the foundations of the modern EOD profession.

Today, we remember the 2,403 lives lost, honor the survivors, and reflect on the duty, sacrifice, and resilience that define our nation. Their legacy continues in every technician who stands the watch, at home or abroad.

Pearl Harbor Day

“A date which will live in infamy.”

Today, the National EOD Association pauses to remember the events of December 7, 1941, and the heroes whose actions shaped our nation’s history. The attack on Pearl Harbor claimed 2,403 American lives and marked the beginning of America’s entry into World War II.

For the EOD community, Pearl Harbor represents the origin of our mission — the moment when unexploded bombs, damaged ordnance, and new threats demanded the creation of specialized Bomb Disposal units. From those first teams came the lineage of today’s EOD Technicians.

We honor their courage.

We remember their sacrifice.

And we remain committed to carrying forward the legacy they began.

Dec 01 2025
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Candles for Advent

Advent ~ 2025

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        The Third Week of Advent “Joy”

This third week of the Advent Season, Christian tradition focuses upon ‘Joy’. To be clear….not manufactured joy, not happiness (which is different), not the joy of others (to, by, for, or with ) you, but rather, God’s ‘Joy’ for you.

Let me write that again. God’s Joy for YOU!!

In the letter by Nehemiah (Chapter 8, verse 10b), he writes in part “…For the Joy of the Lord is your strength…”.

What is this ‘Joy of the Lord’?

Rev. Samuel Dickey Gordon (1859 – 1936), a lay minister, wrote “…Joy is distinctly a Christian word and a Christian thing. It is the reverse of happiness. Happiness is the result of what happens of an agreeable sort. Joy has its springs deep down inside. And that spring never runs dry, no matter what happens. Only Jesus gives that Joy…”

C.S. Lewis writes, “…Joy is the serious business of heaven…”

So, these writers believe Joy is distinctly a Christian word. It is the business of heaven and is different from earthly, emotional, or human happiness.    

How do we see God’s Joy as our Strength?  

  • By understanding and accepting by Faith God’s desire to reclaim His Creation, His animated ‘likeness in His image’ (Genesis 1:26).  
  • By believing God’s desire was significant enough to send His only begotten Son to be born of the Virgin Mary and die on a cross for you and me.  
  • By believing that the price for our sins, our mistakes, and our genetic and spiritual depravity is evidenced from the foundation of the Creation of the world (the sin of Adam). 
  • With Faith in our Lord and Belief in His Word….Believers are strengthened.

Where then can we find the Lord’s Joy?

  • His Joy may be found in Scripture,
  • In Prayer, 
  • By singing His praises,
  • By observing His Work in our natural Creation,
  • And yes, even in daily circumstances around us.

There are indeed times when each of us is temporarily robbed of our Joy. We are left in grief, sorrow, or even loneliness.

Yet….I must tell you from personal experience: there is only One Joy that can truly lift a person from moments of sorrow and grief. I speak of the Joy of the Lord. The Joy which is mighty to Save. A Joy which is supernatural and yet can be physically felt (emotionally).  

Our Joy begins with the birth of Jesus Christ (the Messiah), foretold in history and proven by His life, His Miracles, and His Resurrection. In this writer’s opinion, this is where true Eternal and present Joy begins….for each of us.

The Lord’s Joy for us was born in the past. With the miraculous Birth and Resurrection of Jesus Christ.  

The Lord’s Joy for us is alive in the present. In those moments when we cry out to Him for His relief, His counsel, His Joy to be our comfort in our time of need. 

The Lord’s Joy for us lives in the future. Where Jesus Christ exists, standing in eternity at the right hand of the Father to intercede on our behalf and welcome us home when our time comes.

I would ask you to consider:   “…The Joy of the Lord is your strength….” in dealing with your past, in living in your present, and in securing your future.

The Christian tradition of Advent is about “coming to”  Christ. Meeting the ‘One’ whose name is ‘Word’ (John 1:1ff), born of the Virgin Mary, who came to the world for a singular purpose:  To reconcile God’s Creation to Himself and to provide a way for the fallen nature of His created beings to return to Him, a Holy and Righteous God. He who is the Author of our Joy and our Strength.

Praise be to God! Lean upon the Joy of the Lord and not on your own ‘works’; and may the Eternal and Present Joy of Jesus Christ be your Strength this Christmas season and the years to come.

With the Greatest Respect,

Soli Deo Gloria (To God Alone be the Glory)
LEO BT Chaplain B

          The Second Week of Advent “Peace”

Advent is a season of celebration and repentance.  A time when we acknowledge our part in broken relationships and the fractured world in which we live. During this time, we also recognize we are powerless to save ourselves or anyone else.  After all, we are Sons of Adam and Daughters of Eve (as C.S. Lewis writes), and we all have a role to play, though we cannot do it on our own.

Thankfully, we are not abandoned or alone.  Though it may feel like that sometimes.  There is Hope greater than ourselves as we have noted last week when lighting the First Candle of Advent.  The Hope of Christ.

This second week of Advent, we acknowledge the Power and Presence of the Peace of God.  The coming of the Prince of Peace.

This Advent theme of Peace reminds us that Jesus Christ’s arrival is meant to reconcile all human beings: to, by, for, and with God and one another.  This God-centered peace is more than just a victory over emotional or physical conflict.  It is a harmony rooted in God’s presence, while honestly addressing and working to heal sources of division, fear, pride, and whatever compels us to sin.  Indeed, Jesus reconciles all things to himself, offering healing and restoration through Hope, Peace, Love, and Forgiveness.  And His Peace is life-changing, real, and everlasting.

The Prophet Isaiah foretells Jesus as the “Prince of Peace,” whose kingdom will bring justice and peace to all who follow him.

Isaiah 7:14: “…Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, a virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanu-el…”

Isaiah 9:2: “…The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in the land of the deep darkness, on them has light shone…”.

Isaiah 9:6: “…For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government will be upon his shoulder, and his name will be called ‘Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace…”

As you light the second Advent candle this week, reflect on the ways Jesus calls you to be a peacemaker in your life, showing kindness, understanding, and forgiveness to others. Advent Peace encourages you and me to let go of our personal anxieties, fears, and pain.  We are encouraged to trust in God’s Forgiveness, Love, and Promise of eternal Hope, for today, tomorrow, and for the future.

A section from C.S. Lewis’ book ‘The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe’.

“…Someone is coming to our rescue:  Wrong will be right, when Aslan comes in sight, At the sound of his roar, sorrows will be no more, When he bares his teeth, winter meets its death, And when he shakes his mane, we shall have spring again…”

Advent promises that our hope will not be disappointed and that the winter moments of our lives will not be forever. God’s Son has brought us victory over sin and death (Romans 8:1ff). Soon we will celebrate our Messiah’s birth (Christmas), and soon after, we will celebrate His glorious Resurrection (Easter), proving all He said was True.

The power of Advent is yours for the taking.

Respectfully offered,

Soli Deo Gloria (To God Alone be the Glory)
LEO BT Chaplain B

      The first week of Advent is “Hope”

Believers in Jesus Christ have celebrated Advent since the 7th century A.D. As you recall, “Advent” from the Latin means “coming to”. Therefore, the Advent Season is understood as Jesus Christ (the Messiah) “coming to” the world.

During the first Sunday of Advent, Believers celebrate the arrival of Jesus Christ into the world and focus on the eternal “Hope” He brought. “Hope”, in Scripture, has two meanings:

1) a sense of eager anticipation or waiting; and
2) a sense of confident expectation based on certainty.

When Christian’s celebrate Advent, we remember, celebrate, and offer our thanksgiving for what God has done in history for all of humanity.   That God sent His only Son, through whom we might have the certainty of Hope…. for today, tomorrow, and eternity.

C.S. Lewis, author of The Chronicles of Narnia series and other works, writes “…The birth of Christ is the central event in the history of the earth — the very thing the whole story (creation) has been about…”.

Hope is not just wishful thinking. It is God entering the darkest places with quiet, eternal strength. Indeed, the first week of Advent is more than a church tradition-it can be a true encounter with Jesus Christ, the Light of the World (John 8:12).

Let this Advent week serve as a spiritual “wake-up call”: a time to acknowledge your deep need for Christ and to renew trust in God’s promises.

If you allow me, I will offer a prayer for you.

Heavenly Father, during this Advent season, help us reflect on Your act in time and space that gifted us with Your Son. Teach us to anchor our Hope in all aspects of life and family in Jesus Christ. We are grateful that You hear our prayers and petitions, and thankful for the eternal and everlasting Hope You offer us as we eagerly await Your return. Amen

Advent Season: What is it?

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Nov 30 2025
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❤️‍🔥 Giving Tuesday ~ Stand with the EOD Family

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Dear NATEODA Family,

On this Giving Tuesday, we pause to honor the men and women of Explosive Ordnance Disposal—those who step forward when others step back, who serve with courage, precision, and unwavering commitment.

Today is more than a day of generosity. It is a chance to strengthen the bonds of our EOD community and support those who carry the weight of this profession, both past and present.

Your gift—no matter the size—helps us:

  • Support EOD technicians and their families in times of hardship

  • Preserve the history and legacy of our profession

  • Recognize excellence and service across the EOD community

  • Strengthen programs that mentor, connect, and uplift our members

Every contribution empowers us to continue the mission of “Serving the EOD Family.”

If you’re able, please consider a tax-deductible donation today and stand shoulder-to-shoulder with your fellow EOD brothers and sisters.

Together, we make a difference.

Together, we remain The EOD Family.

With gratitude and respect,

Woodward L. “Woody” Eastwood
President
National Explosive Ordnance Disposal Association
president@nateoda.com

Nov 28 2025
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In Memoriam ~ James E Duncan

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Past President, National Explosive Ordnance Disposal Association

31 May 1940 ~ 28 November 2025

National Explosive Ordnance Disposal Association

31 May 1940 ~ 28 November 2025
With profound sadness, the National Explosive Ordnance Disposal Association (NATEODA) announces the passing of our Past President, SFC James “Jim” Edward Duncan, USA Retired, of Denham Springs, Louisiana, who departed this life on November 28, 2025. Jim was born in Little Rock, Arkansas, on 31 May 1940. He was married to his wonderful wife, Judith A. “Judy” Duncan.
Jim was a pillar of the EOD community and a trusted leader whose decades of service embodied courage, integrity, and unwavering dedication to the mission and the people he loved. He entered the Army in July 1957 and took basic training at Fort Chaffee, Arkansas. Most of his military career was spent in Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD). He attended the EOD and Nuclear Weapon course at Indian Head, Maryland, in 1962. He started his EOD career in the 61st Ordnance Detachment (EOD), Fort Sill, Oklahoma, in 1962 after completing EOD School. He served various EODC and EOD Detachments in the United States, Panama, and Vietnam. It included the 184th Ordnance Battalion (EOD Section), Republic of Vietnam, 546th Ordnance Detachment (EODCC), Fort Sam Houston, Texas. 36th Ordnance Detachment (EOD), Fort Clayton, Canal Zone, Panama; 41st Ordnance Detachment (EOD), Ft Bliss, Texas; 546th Ordnance Detachment (EODCC), Fort Sam Houston, Texas; and 52nd Ordnance Detachment (EOD), Pine Bluff, Arkansas.
A Life of Service
Jim retired from the Army on 1 April 1978 with the rank of Sergeant First Class (E-7). After retiring from the Army, he joined the Louisiana State Police (Explosive Control Unit) after completing the Louisiana State Police Academy.  He was commissioned as an Officer to enforce the Louisiana explosive laws and respond to any explosive incident (IEDs, military explosive ordnance, deteriorated explosives, bomb threats, illegal use of explosives, and arson fire investigation). He worked with U.S. Federal Agencies, FBI, and ATF, on the investigation of theft and illegal use of explosives, manufacture of IEDs, and arson for profit fires. After retiring from the Louisiana State Police, he joined the U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Railroad Administration, as a Hazardous Material Investigator/Specialist. He enforced federal laws governing the transportation of hazardous materials and explosives, and investigated accidents involving them.
He was a member of the International Association of Arson Investigators (IAAI) and served on its board. Was the President of the IAAI Louisiana Chapter from 1989 to 1990 and was a life Member. He was a member of the International Association of Bomb Technicians and Investigators (IABTI) for many years. He was awarded the Distinguished Service Award from IABTI for Distinguished Service and Outstanding Contribution to the Association of such Magnitude as to Bring Honor and Recognition to Himself and the Profession. Jim was a member of the National EOD Association (NATEODA), member #1167. Jim was the past Commander of the NATEODA.

Leadership in NATEODA
Jim has been a member of NATEODA since 17 January 2009. He was Commander 2021 – 2024- and was awarded the NATEODA Distinguished Service Medal in September 2024. As a Past President of NATEODA, Jim provided steady guidance, mentorship, and vision. He was deeply committed to preserving EOD heritage, supporting technicians and their families, and strengthening the community he cherished. His leadership and friendship will forever be part of the NATEODA legacy.

A Brother Remembered
Jim’s life reflected everything we value in the EOD profession — courage under pressure, service before self, and loyalty to his teammates. His impact will be felt for years to come, and he will be deeply missed by all who had the honor of serving alongside him.

Memorial arrangements will be shared with the NATEODA Family as soon as they are available. Until then, we ask that you keep Jim, his family, and his loved ones in your prayers during this difficult time.

Rest easy, Jim. We have the watch.

Updated 29 November 2025
Nov 27 2025
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Chaplain Banta’s Thanksgiving Message from the Light House

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A short note this Thanksgiving Day. Many years ago, when I resigned from a Government Contract Company, I was gifted a small pocket watch by a fellow military professional and LEO Investigator (J.M.). On the watch she had engraved “…The Harder You Work, The Harder It Is To Surrender…”.

I am looking at the watch this morning and reflecting again on how these words defined my approach to life and work back then.  In some ways, they still apply today (smile).

As you may know, our community of Lighthouse View Readers is made up of: former military professionals, former LEOs, and former Bomb Techs.  Still others are business professionals (past and present), military and/or civilian family members, and supporting Brothers and Sisters in Christ working in various forms of ministry and support.  Each of you has been, or is in, a significant leadership position(s).  

Some are raising families (the most challenging role in many ways), some have provided or are providing support as caregivers, and still others are active Analysts and or First Responders supporting our nation’s needs.  We are a diverse group.

Suppose you will pardon my assumptions.  This author is persuaded, You and I fellow readers work hard to do the best we can with what we have.  We generally set a high standard for ourselves and for the tasks we were (or are) assigned.  We like to finish what we start.  It is who we are, in my opinion…. And it is God who has gifted us to ‘pull it off’. 

Our ‘working hard’ is accomplished not just by our vision and labor, but also by the Team and/or Persons we are supporting or working with.  It is a Team Effort in Life, in Work, and in Family.  And yes, J.M., it is hard to surrender being part of that Team.

This Thanksgiving I am grateful to our Lord who saw fit to Gift me the chance to be a member of so many families.  My own earthly family, my family of fellow professionals (military, LEO, Contracting, etc,) each with many opportunities to serve.  This Thanksgiving I am thankful to all those who allowed my to serve and be part of their family. 

Today, I am also grateful to God who allows me to continue to be a small part of God’s Team in this time and space.  To have been a leader and follower in the many roles He has gifted me over these nearly 75 years of life on this planet.

As you reflect on your own life, my fellow Brothers and Sisters in Christ, I am persuaded that we each share the same gratitude to God.  

And I think we also share, in our own way, the words gifted to me by J.M..  We are all, truly, those quite professionals.  Proud to serve in many roles and thankful to our Lord who has given us the gifts and the purpose to do so.

 “…In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you…”. (12 Thessalonians 5:18 KJV)

Thanks, Ladies and Gentlemen, for being fellow leaders and, at times, followers.  May we each continue to learn to ‘hold the line’, through Christ Jesus, in our assigned labors and delegate when we can (smile), as difficult as that may be at times. “…We can do all things through Christ who gives us strength…”

P.S. Thanks, Judy. Hope you and your family are well.

With the most profound respect to each of you.

Soli Deo Gloria
LEO BT Chaplain B

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 NATEODA Webmaster
nateoda.com
webmaster@nateoda.com		 Thank you, Chaplain,
May you and your Family have a wonderful day.
Best regards to ALL!
Woody Eastwood

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