#IAMIMSC: Master Sgt. Benjamin Ford
Duty title and unit: Command Explosive Ordnance Disposal Program Manager, AFIMSC Detachment 2, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii
Primary duty responsibilities: Assessing and advocating for the eight Pacific Air Forces Explosive Ordnance Disposal flights on all matters involving organization, training and equipment. I also augment the PACAF Inspector General as an EOD subject matter expert during capstone inspections and base readiness exercises to ensure the flights are prepared to execute their missions. Additionally, I quality check and approve all EOD incident reports for emergency responses that occur in the Pacific theater.
What’s the best part of your job?
The people I support. The EOD Airmen in PACAF are an amazing group and I enjoy arming them with the things they need to do the job.
What’s a recent project that gave you a great sense of accomplishment?
This year, I helped coordinate the PACAF Annual Unit Awards for Explosive Ordnance Disposal. The flight at Kadena had a mix-up where the package, through no fault of their own, didn’t make it out of the wing before the submission deadline. I was able to work with the major command functional managers cell to get the package submitted for consideration. Kadena was selected as the MAJCOM winner and they received proper recognition for their outstanding accomplishments.
Any claims to fame?
I helped build and was a member of the first Air Force Airborne EOD program. Additionally, I was in the first group of EOD Airmen to receive the Air Force Combat Action Medal.
Do you follow any mantra?
My mantra is the EOD motto: “Initial Success or Total Failure.” Be prepared and competent because sometimes you only get one shot.
Which AFIMSC value do you identify with the most and why?
Trust and Transparency. I believe in being upfront with the people I support and explain any and all limitations of my position and ability to assist them. I always point people in the right direction to get the help they need without misleading or making false promises. Candor and trust have helped form a cohesive and effective team.