By Senior Chief Mass Communication Specialist John Osborne, Navy Office of Community Outreach
VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. - Chief Petty Officer Shawn Geiser, a native of Wellsboro, Pennsylvania, serves among the Navy’s quiet professionals assigned to Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Group 2, bringing precision and lethality wherever the Navy needs it.
 |
Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Marieliza Rosales Navy Public Affairs Support Element East |
Geiser graduated from Wellsboro High School in 2011.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Wellsboro.
“My parents led by example and showed me what right from wrong looked like,” Geiser said. "That lesson above all others has translated very well into my Navy career."
Geiser joined the Navy 12 years ago. Today, Geiser serves as an explosive ordnance disposal technician.
“Both of my grandparents served in the military, so I wanted to carry on the family tradition,” Geiser said. "I tried college for a year and realized I wanted to go down a different path."
Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) technicians are trained to take on the most dangerous jobs in defense of their nation. From the ocean floor to combat zones overseas, they neutralize underwater mines, disarm improvised explosive devices, and ensure the safety of U.S. and allied forces. With roots in maritime operations, Navy EOD stands apart as the only force capable of rendering safe explosives across every domain.
At the heart of this mission is EOD Group 2, headquartered in Virginia Beach, Virginia. This command oversees multiple EOD mobile units, providing expeditionary expertise wherever it’s needed — from supporting carrier strike groups to assisting federal and local agencies at home. EOD technicians embody courage, precision, and adaptability, working in environments where a single mistake can mean catastrophe. Their mission is simple but profound: to make the world safer, one threat at a time.
The U.S. Navy is celebrating its 250th birthday this year.
According to Navy officials, “America is a maritime nation and for 250 years, America’s Warfighting Navy has sailed the globe in defense of freedom.”
With 90% of global commerce traveling by sea and access to the internet relying on the security of undersea fiber optic cables, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity of the United States is directly linked to recruiting and retaining talented people from across the rich fabric of America.
Geiser has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“I am proud of becoming a master technician, but even more proud of helping junior Sailors through their careers and lives,” Geiser said.
Geiser serves a Navy that operates far forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation’s prosperity and security.
“Being in the Navy and EOD community has been everything to me,” Geiser said. "Leaving my small town, I have met some of the best people and built relationships that will last a lifetime."
Geiser is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I couldn’t have had this great career without my wife, Brooke,” Geiser said. "She is an amazing mom and wife, and I couldn't imagine my life without her. I also want to thank my family members who have supported me throughout my career."