Have you ever faced a decision that put your life's passion on pause for the sake of family? Michael Montoya, a former US Marine Corps EOD Technician, joins us with a tale that's far from ordinary, where the battlefield extends beyond the physical realm. He takes us through his early days of military aspiration triggered by a Marine's school visit, to the rigorous EOD training and his abrupt deployment to Iraq. His narrative doesn't stop there; we learn about the sacrifices he made for his family, temporarily stepping away from the minefields of Ukraine to mend his marriage, and his undaunted return to continue his crucial work in emergency services.

The scars of war are not always visible. In a heartfelt recount, Michael shares the moment his life was nearly claimed by a mine strike. He talks about the instinctive reach for his tourniquet, the rush of aid from nearby comrades, and the surprising humor found amidst the life-or-death chaos. His story is a raw look into the reality of conflict zones and the unwavering spirit of those who serve, as we follow his journey from the emergency response in Ukraine to the harrowing medical procedures in Germany.

Yet, amid adversity, growth emerges. As we pivot to the future, we examine the development of a specialized training organization dedicated to EOD and emergency response. With a vision to establish a school that follows International Mine Action Standards, we discuss the challenges of building capacity and collaboration in this field. Steve Cassidy, another EOD veteran and entrepreneur, joins to discuss expanding his EOD Gear business and its impact on the global community. Together, these stories encapsulate the innovation and resilience that define the EOD community, at home and across the world.

The New Way to Train and Buy Gear!

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Join us on a unique journey with authors Joe Shaffer III and Dr. Paula Green as they reveal the inspiration behind their book "Unsung". Venture into the thrilling experiences of the Navy EOD community, a story brought to life by interviewing 47 individuals - from operators to their families. Discover the compelling ties to Navy EOD. Brace yourself for a conversation filled with unexpected turns that will leave you inspired and intrigued about the Navy EOD community. 

In the second part of our compelling dialogue, we delve deeper into the impact of their book, "Unsung". Joe and Paula share captivating stories about how Commodore Rojas's unwavering support played a pivotal role in their journey. They enlighten us on their innovative fundraising strategies for two foundations and their aspirational plans to support the military more. Get ready to be captivated by inspiring anecdotes, clearly depicting their deep connection with the Navy EOD community. Don't miss out on their future plans for promoting the book and their commitment to giving back. This is a conversation you wouldn't want to miss - join us!