SGT. 1ST CLASS JOHN NEELY
20th Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, Explosives Command
U.S. Army Forces Command
Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland

Throughout my military career, I’ve been an explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) technician. It’s a profession that demands meticulous attention to detail, unwavering discipline and a healthy respect for the potential consequences of even the smallest mistake. Over the years, one phrase has consistently echoed in my mind, a guiding principle that served as a constant reminder of the inherent dangers we face: If you didn’t put it there, don’t pick it up. This isn’t just a catchy slogan; it’s a fundamental rule of survival, a cornerstone of EOD operations, and a lesson I wish every Soldier understood and internalized.

I’ve observed a common thread amongst personnel of all ranks, specialties and backgrounds — the instinctive urge to investigate, manipulate or collect. It’s a natural human curiosity, but in a deployed environment, or even on a domestic training range, that curiosity can be lethal. I’ve seen Soldiers pick up seemingly harmless rocks, simply to test their throwing arm. Others scavenge old mount sites or training areas, collecting discarded gear as souvenirs or potentially useful items. But the most concerning instances involve the discovery of unidentified ordnance. Too often, these items are picked up, not out of necessity, but because they “look cool,” or as a misguided attempt to acquire a war trophy — a tangible reminder of their service in places like Iraq or Afghanistan.

These actions aren’t born out of malice or recklessness. They stem from a lack of understanding, a failure to appreciate the potential for catastrophic consequences. It’s a mindset that needs to be actively challenged and replaced with a culture of caution and respect. I recall a particularly harrowing incident during a deployment to Afghanistan that vividly illustrates the importance of this principle. I was in my tent, diligently working on a report, when a private first class entered, visibly concerned. He held up a rusted, aged grenade, clearly of Russian origin, and asked with a hesitant tone, “Is this dangerous, and can my NCOs keep it?”

The question itself was a red flag. The grenade was undeniably dangerous. It was missing its safety pin and spoon — both critical components designed to prevent accidental detonation. The firing pin wasn’t fully seated, meaning it was poised to strike the percussion primer with the slightest disturbance. Incredibly, a small rock was wedged between the firing pin and the primer. That rock was the only thing preventing immediate detonation. With just a minor shift or slight vibration, the grenade would have exploded.

I immediately secured the grenade and transported it to our local disposal area for controlled demolition. As with any such incident, a thorough investigation followed. What we uncovered was deeply unsettling. The private revealed that he had actually taken the grenade from two sergeants who discovered it while digging around their tent. They, lacking the training to identify the object, decided it would be fun to throw it around. Thankfully, they hadn’t attempted to manipulate the grenade beyond the initial handling, but their intent was reckless, nonetheless. It was the private’s attention to detail — his recognition that the object was, in fact, a grenade — that ultimately prevented a tragedy. He had the presence of mind to seek expert assistance, potentially saving the lives of his fellow Soldiers.

This incident wasn’t an isolated case. It was a stark reminder of how quickly a seemingly innocuous situation can escalate into a life-threatening crisis. It underscored the critical need for continuous training and reinforcement of basic safety protocols. What I truly wish I could impart to every Soldier, from the newest recruit to the most seasoned veteran, is this: If you didn’t put it there, don’t pick it up.

It’s a simple phrase, but its implications are profound. Leave it alone. Mark its location. Report it to qualified personnel, such as EOD, military police or your chain of command. Don’t assume it’s inert. Don’t assume someone else has already checked it. Don’t assume your curiosity is worth the risk. The potential consequences are simply too great. A moment of curiosity can lead to a lifetime of regret, or worse.

Your safety and that of your comrades depend on it. Respect the potential dangers around you, prioritize caution and remember that when in doubt, leave it out. It’s a lesson learned through years of experience, and one I hope will continue to resonate throughout the ranks for generations to come.