Words After War

The plight of veterans is often in the news today. For example, congress recently voted to reduce retirement benefits retroactively (How can this even be remotely legal!). Fortunately, this was repealed. Perhaps more importantly, it has come to light that many veterans receive inadequate medical care, or no care at all as they are shuffled and maneuvered through a bureaucratic system...one that apparently even falsifies records to hide its inefficiency. While it is criminal that these tragedies occur, it is somewhat encouraging that the issues surfaced and will be addressed voraciously. This is because vets know how to organize, support, and defend one another. One need only look to examples set by the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), Disabled American Vets (DAV), and support groups such as the EOD Warrior Foundation (EODWF) to observe that veterans are a formidable force. Some veterans support one another through connections that are less formal, yet equally effective.

Vietnam Veteran Mike Walsh decided to document and photograph all of the Vietnam memorials within the United States. Mike's photojournalistic journey grew into a blog called "A Means to Heal." Vets use his site to address the internal conflicts stemming from their service in Vietnam. Naturally, a common way for veterans to honor their service and that of their compatriots is to talk or write about their experiences in war. It follows then, that veterans often help one another when they write, edit, and publish.

While writing my first novel, Proximity, I was also working on an emerging journal called Military Diver. This periodical never come to fruition, but it introduced me to Steven Waterman (Just a Sailor) and Chuck Pfarrer (Warrior Soul). They both read my manuscript, gave sound editorial advice, kindly provided a blurb for the book jacket, and guided me through the publication process. Now, I pass on this wisdom and experience, assisting other veterans to develop their manuscripts and find a home for their work. I do not know how much impact I imparted to each, but many of them enjoy well deserved success. Perhaps my favorite is fellow EOD Technician Brian Castner. When introducing him to my former agent via email I wrote "This maybe the most important book about modern war." Brian's story, The Long Walk, is published in multiple editions in the U.S. and UK, and has even inspired an opera! 

For veterans in search of literary guidance, I always recommend they join the Military Writers Society of America (MWSA). MWSA supports military members in their writing and those who are enthusiasts writing about military topics. Recently, Brian Castner introduced me to Words After War. Founded by Brandon Willitts, it is a group that provides opportunities for veterans to develop through a variety of programs. For example, there is a one week "Summer Writing Intensive" at Marlboro College in Vermont.

I volunteered for the Literary Mentorship Program. Through this, Words After War connected me with a Navy veteran writing a novel that is influenced by his service in Afghanistan. I look forward to sharing more as it moves from manuscript to published work. In the meantime, I recommend perusing Words After War, following the blog, and contributing to their efforts.

Purchase signed copies of Proximity from Stephen Phillips via Square

Now, readers can purchase signed copies of Proximity through Square. Visit: or select one of the links below. Be sure to ad a note at checkout for any specific inscription like, "Thank you for your service to our nation," or "Good luck in EOD School!" on Square Market

Stephen Phillips speaking to the Annapolis Chapter of the Maryland Writers' Association

On March 19, 2014 I was honored to join the Annapolis Chapter of the Maryland Writers' Association. They were kind enough to video tape the talk. Here is the first of three sections. Enjoy it and it should link to the other two.

It's Monday morning....

...and someone is classing up. Someone has already finished their bay swim. Someone has already puked their guts out.

Someone is starting pool week.



Hooya, Divers!

(With thanks to Class 09-60-EOD)

The Waters Edge

The Waters Edge - This is an entertaining short video of the Naval Diving Salvage Training Center (NDSTC) in Panama City, Florida. Watch to see the wide variety of diving performed by the U.S. Navy to include scuba, surface supplied, and mixed-gas re-breathers. There are also depictions of physical training...and blowing sh!t up!

*** The WATERS EDGE (Short Film) *** - Mariano Lorde | 16x9Studios from 16x9 Studios on Vimeo.

A Remembrance of 9/11

Re-posting "A Remembrance of 9/11" with thanks to Jim Prewitt for trusting me with his story. Start with this link on the Small Wars Journal. The whole story can be reached through the link embedded there.

I will never forget.

Stephen Phillips on You Tube

I now have a You Tube channel, simply called "Stephen Phillips." Thus far, I added two playlists, one of recommended U.S. Navy EOD videos, one of bomb disposal in general. I hope that those interested in EOD, the Naval Academy, and my writing, will visit and provide me some feedback on what they think of this means to interact with my readers.

Book Review of "Defender Dolphins" for the Naval Historical Foundation.

I recently reviewed Defender Dolphins for the Naval Historical Foundation. The full review can be found here: Project Short Time.

Best of MIDRATS

In 2010, I joined Navy bloggers CDR Salamander and EagleOne on their blogtalk radio program, MIDRATS, to discuss life as an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Technician. On the show I followed CDR Kirk Lippold who was the commanding officer of the USS Cole when she was attacked in Aden, Yemen in 2000.

This episode aired again on March 31, 2013 -Easter Sunday- as one of the "Best of MIDRATS." You can listen to it here: MIDRATS Episode 169

EOD Warrior Foundation

I want all my readers, especially fans of my EOD novel, Proximity, to know that The EOD Memorial Foundation and Wounded EOD Warrior Foundation have joined. I have supported both of these organizations and am glad that they are now one. This will benefit those whom they support in a streamlined way. As always, sales of Proximity will benefit this organization. I encourage you to support EOD Technicians and their families by donating to the EOD Warrior Foundation. You can find them on facebook and at www.eodwarriorfoundation.org.

EOD Memorial Blog via New York Times

The first Saturday in May is when the EOD community solemnly places names on the EOD Memorial of those who made the ultimate sacrifice during the previous year. C.J. Chivers wrote a great piece in the New York Times about this event entitled "Remembering the Dead: New Names for a Wall that Keeps Growing"

I recommend spending a few moments to read this blog, and remember those who served to the end.

How Do I Prepare for EOD School?

Steven Watkins wrote on my facebook page :

"Hey, I just thought I'd let you know I signed my EOD contract to day. I ship October 29th. I almost lost my contract because MEPS messed up my paperwork and wrote I couldn't equalize my ears, but I easily passed the retest and swore in today. I'm very pumped up, any advice for dive school or EOD school?"

I receive this question often. I always enjoy passing on advice to those who volunteered for this challenging community. So, I've written this for Steven and for all those who may choose a career in naval diving....

Congratulations!

As stated in Proximity, "An EOD Technician must have the brains of an engineer, the hands of a surgeon, and the courage of a martyr....when the Navy needs to place a limpet mine under an enemy ship it tasks the Navy SEALs, but to respond to such an attack – the Navy summons EOD."

Thus, you have volunteered to join one of the most elite elements in the U.S. military. So, "How to prepare?"

To be a U.S. Navy EOD Technician, one must possess physical and mental endurance. In the EOD pipeline these two traits are tested time and again to identify those who do not have the requisite aptitude needed and build upon the ability of those that do. There are steps that candidates can take to build their physical and mental endurance, to prepare themselves for EOD training and and an EOD career.

The best online resource to prepare physically for EOD is StewSmith.com . Stew is a Naval Academy graduate and former Navy SEAL. Visit his site for more details to include his books on fitness. Recognize then that EOD Techs must combine raw strength with the ability to swim and run. Too much time in the weight room may make swimming and running a challenge. Focusing too much on running may decrease muscle mass. Strive for a good balance of all three.

Additionally, EOD candidates can get a good leg up by working on their ability to swim with fins. I've written a note about this previously in a Blog post entitled, EOD Prep.

All Navy diver candidates must take the diver physical readiness test  depicted in this video. Not only is this test required to get into the Navy diving community, it is conducted several times during the curriculum. Thus, performing well on this test is an indication of relative preparedness for EOD school. I recommend taking the test with a buddy once a week. (Note: It is important when swimming to always have a buddy and/or safety observer.)

EOD school is also mentally challenging. The word "endurance" applies here as well. Academic failure is more often because the student did not put in the time than that they did not have the requisite IQ. Material is imparted to the student as a constant, rapid pace. Deciding to take one night off to go drinking often means the student is now behind when they show up to class the next day. To succeed, expect to put in for to five hours of study a night, five nights a week, for 18 months to two years.

EOD candidates get a go leg up on academics by obtaining a copy of the U.S. Navy Diving Manual. It is available online for free on several sites such as scribd.com    A waterproof hard copy is available on Amazon.com .

Again, congratulations on beginning your EOD career. You will soon find it is the best decision you ever made. HOOYA!

EOD Prep

I'm often asked, "What should I do to prepare for EOD school?" What the candidate or "wanna-be" usually really means is, "I'm running, swimming, and lifting...but what secret, what gouge can you give me to ensure I'm doing everything possible. My recommendation?

Official Navy Photo: Bay Swim at Naval Diving Salvage Training Center

Swim with fins.

One of the most challenging parts of the diving curriculum are bay swims whether in Alligator Bayou (yes, it's named that for a reason...it is Florida folks) or Saint Andrews Bay. Why? Because the time/distance requirement is daunting. You have to be able to swim straight and fast. This requires an efficient stroke and accurate navigation.

To prep, buy a set of booties and fins. Practice swimming using only your legs. The technique requires one to kick from the hip, not the knee. After a few times practicing, the technique is easily mastered. Then, build up speed and stamina.

For open bay swims, navigation is another important aspect. Fine a "line" on the shore, like to trees, and use it as a range to keep you on track. In other words, if you keep the two trees lined up, you'll be swimming straight, and thus a shorter distance leading to a faster time.

MOST IMPORTANT: Always train with a safety observer.

HOOYA!

Proximity available on iBooks

Proximity: A Novel of the Navy's Elite Bomb Squad is now available for Apple platforms through iBooks. Look for it now for your iPhone, iPad, or iTouch.

"So, you wanna go EOD,"...an EOD Book Round-up

A master chief twin-pin (read SEAL & EOD qualified - an increasingly rare breed) from EOD Mobile Unit Two assembled a group of EOD and SEAL "wanna-bes" on the pool deck near SEAL TEAM TWO's compound onboard Naval Amphibious Base Little Creek, Virginia. They were about to begin a physical screening test for EOD or Naval Special Warfare starting with the first step, the 500yd swim.

Before they began the master chief asked a question. "Who knows who Draper Kauffman was?"
Only one candidate who stuck out his hand.
"Sir?"
"Draper Kauffman is the father of the Navy EOD and Special Warfare communities, Master Chief."
"That's right, sir. Hooya."
The master chief asked a few more questions about Rear Admiral Kauffman. The lieutenant was able to answer most of them.
"All of you should know about Draper Kauffman. It is important to understand the heritage of this community, where we came from," the master chief announced to the whole group. "All of you need to get up to speed with the lieutenant here."


Next, the master chief went down the line asking each sailor what his scores on the test were going to be. Some expressed that they had no idea, as he got closer in line to the lieutenant, others started guessing.
"Sir?"
"I'm going to swim in about 8:58, Master Chief. I will max push-ups and sit-ups at 100 each, then get eight to ten pull-ups, followed by around 11 minutes on the run."
The scores that the lieuntenant announced we good, but not stellar. He was certain others in the group would have more pull-ups and a much faster run time.
"Sir, that's pretty specific. How do you know those will be your scores?"
"Because I perform the EOD screening test myself every Friday afternoon in preparation.
"Hooya."


The lieutenant has made a positive impression upon the master chief. As a result, the second part of his interview ended before it started. The EOD officer who was assigned ot interview him to ascertain his suitability for EOD said words to the effect, "Master Chief already told me you've got the gouge and that you are serious about this community. As a result, you are going to get the highest recommendation from me."

The lesson learned from this yarn is that many are attracted to the EOD/NSW communities, but few demonstrate serious commitment. They talk a lot about the warfare pins, the social life, the machismo. The lieutenant's actions portrayed someone who had researched the EOD community thoroughly and prepared seriously to apply. It made a lasting impression.

I employed this same technique when interviewing EOD candidates. My first question would always be "Who was Draper Kauffman?" Those who knew and could tell me more about the community they were applying for got my highest recommendations for EOD school or BUD/S. For those that did not, I recommended that they do some research and find out more about the community.

The best book available to learn about Draper Kauffman and the origin of the EOD community is America's First Frogman, The Draper Kauffman Story by Elizabeth Kauffman Bush. I reviewed it here on this blog and on Amazon. This is the first book anyone should read who wants to be an EOD Tech or a SEAL.





A Cold War Story by Jim Conkey is a novel about Navy EOD that takes place in the 1950's. I've also reviewed it on this blog and on Amazon. This also provides invaluable insight into the U.S. Navy EOD community's heritage.

The third book I'd recommend for those who want to learn about the U.S. Navy EOD community is The Day We Lost the H-Bomb by Barbara Moran. This is a true account of a B-52 crash and the loss of four nuclear weapons in 1966. One of the key figures is a legend in Navy EOD, Commander "Red" Moody. Add this to your required reading list if you wanna be a crab-wearer.

It is equally important to understand the EOD world today, what it means to serve as an EOD Tech in the global war on terrorism. Currently, there are not many good books about American forces conducting EOD, but there are two that cover our UK brethren. They are Eight Lives Down by Major Chris Hunter and Red One: A Bomb Disposal Expert on the Front Line by Capt Kevin Ivison. Again, I've written detailed reviews on this blog and on Amazon. Note that in the British Army tradition, EOD Techs come from the logistics corps and are called "Ammunition Technical Officers" or "ATOs."

Much of the modern counter-IED techniques evolved from ATOs' efforts battling the IRA in the Northern Ireland conflict they called, "The Troubles." There are also several good books on this subject. In particular, I recommend A Special Kind of Courage by Chris Ryder and The Longest Walk by Peter Birchall. The are both excellent sources of historical accounts of valor by British ATOs in Northern Ireland and other theaters. I've also reviewed these through this blog and on Amazon.

For all those who seek to become an EOD Tech - get in physical shape - but also start with the lessons learned and the history encompassed on these pages to ensure you're on the  right track.

How to Publish an eBook in Four Easy Steps

Proximity is now available as an eBook for the Amazon Kindle and Barnes and Noble Nook platforms. It is self published in both formats.

There are four simple steps to self publish an eBook.

1. Obtain an International Standard Book Number (ISBN) through Bowker via the their website myIdentifiers. Details on pricing, etc. are contained there. A separate ISBN is needed for each eBook format, so I recommend buying a block of 10 if you plan to publish more than one book or any single book in more that one format.

2. Format your book for the eBook platforms it will be distributed on/through. The two most common formats are ePub, which is used by iBooks (Apple), the Barnes and Noble Nook, the Kobo, and others. DTP is used by the Amazon Kindle.

   a. You can format from MS Word and other common formats using tools available online. I was unable to find any that produced a product that met my expectations for quality.

   b. There are many companies that will format a manuscript in MS Word or other file types into ePub/DTP. I used and thus recommend eBook Architects.

3. Establish an account with the online distributor. To date I've used Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and iBooks. they can be found at:

   a. Amazon Digital Text Platform.

   b. Apple iTunes Connect. (Requires a Mac computer to download iTunes producer software).

   c. Barnes and Noble PubIt!

4. Follow the steps in each to upload and distribute your files. Make sure you note the following:

    a. Read the directions and agreement in each carefully.

    b. Ensure that you have all the necessary rights to publish the work.

    Good luck!

Proximity Now Available for Nook Platforms

Proximity is now available for Nook platforms.

Proximity Now Available for Kindle Platforms

Proximity: A Novel of the Navy's Elite Bomb Squad is now available for Kindle platforms. Visit the Kindle Store on Amazon.com.

Dedication for the Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal Bronze Relief

There are several bronze reliefs at the Navy Memorial commemorating various aspects of naval service. The EOD plaque was added on April 18, 2000. For this event the Reverend M. Cary Kauffman gave the invocation. It was:

"Divine Spirit -

In a world that contains turmoil and chaos, conflict and evil, the world and especially its children are bless that some men and women are and have been willing to risk their lives to make the world safer.

We are blessed by their example of courage and talent and commitment.

We are blessed by their believe that they can out-think the enemy and outwit the surprises that nature can provide.

We are blessed by their kindness and generosity.

We are even blseed by their sometimes outrageous sense of humor; for without it, they probably could not do what they do.

We are blesses by those who train and support these women and men through their long arduous and continual training.

We are blessed by those who lead them, helping to keep them motivated, trained, and in good order.

Divine Spirit, we are also blessed by those who have come before them, who then, as now, often had to dispose of dangerous explosives - as much through intuition and luck, as through skill, knowledge, and teamwork - and who then tired to understand and pass on the skills and knowledge that produced that intuition and luck.

We are blessed by the staff, the alumni and the families and the friends who rpovide the support and environment in which these men and women can do their jobs,

and - we are blessed by the talents of the sculptor and those who produced the sculpture and the efforts of those who enabled this event to happen today.

May we who are here and those who see this memorial be touched by the example of these men and women and inspired to live out lives more fully and more committed to bettering this world.

Amen, Shalom, Salaam...May it be so."

Navy EOD, Then and Now on Video

On October 13, 2010 I was honored to join the panel "Navy EOD, Then and Now" at the Navy Memorial. It was filmed by EFXTV. The event was is available for viewing in 8 parts on Navy TV.