Celebrating 15 Years of Excellence!

Today, the NATO Explosive Ordnance Disposal Centre of Excellence (NATO EOD COE) marks a significant milestone – the 15th anniversary of its official NATO accreditation!

To celebrate a decade and a half of dedication, innovation, and international cooperation, a special ceremony was held at the Garrison Club in Trenčín.

The Director of the NATO EOD COE, Colonel František Mihalovič, opened the event by warmly welcoming distinguished guests, partners, and colleagues. In his address, he highlighted the history and journey of the Centre since its accreditation in 2011 up to the present day, emphasizing the crucial and continuous support of the Slovak Republic as the Framework Nation and the founding Sponsoring Nations.

As a token of appreciation and respect for their leadership, dedication, and continuous support, Colonel Mihalovič presented commemorative coins to the former Directors of the Centre, recognizing their immense contribution to its establishment and development: COL (ret.) Gabriel MERŇÁK, COL (ret.) Roman LACKOVIČ, COL (ret.) Ľubomír MRVÁŇ, and COL Róbert CSÁSZÁR.

A commemorative coin was also presented to Mr. Martin ČATLOŠ, Director General of the Modernisation Department of the Ministry of Defence of the Slovak Republic and National Armaments Director, for his continuous support.

The entire ceremony carried a strong message of gratitude. After all, behind every successful mission, training program, and technological advancement of the past 15 years are the people. A huge thank you goes to all past and present personnel for their hard work, commitment, and loyalty to the EOD community.

Together, we continue to make the world a safer place!