MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. -- Mention explosive ordnance disposal to most Marines and a scene from "Speed" comes to mind - fast-roping down an elevator shaft and clipping the "red wire" with only a hundredth of a second left. The scenario is wildly overblown, but one EOD expert says enough Marines believe it that many are scared away from the "bomb tech" occupation. Consequently, the field is listed as a critical military occupational specialty amid personnel shortages."Too many people get wrapped around what is perceived to be a high-risk job," said Gunnery Sgt. Brett E. Angus, base EOD operations chief. "But since World War II, only 20 people have died in the line of duty."Only lateral movers are accepted for the job, because the entire EOD community takes screening qualified Marines very seriously, Angus said. Before being accepted, prospects must pass tests on areas such as their intelligence and resistance to stress. In one test, potential "lat-movers" wear bomb suits for one hour. They must perform certain tasks and are graded on their outcomes.Screeners look for attention to detail, maturity and potential for claustrophobia. If any of these traits are compromised, people may lose their lives, said Sgt. Nick D. Willoughby, EOD trainee.When an EOD situation arises, a two-member team responds. Each relies heavily on the other; teamwork is priority one. "It is important that we see how well they are going to gel with the team," Angus said. "If a Marine has a personality trait that doesn't mesh with the group, just tucking it away and hiding it will do nothing but cause trouble. It will eventually surface when least expected."Once the screened Marines are deemed apt for EOD, they are placed in on-the-job-training status at an EOD shop. Marines then wait for an eight-month school seat at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla., to obtain the title of EOD technician.Marine Corps Base EOD screens about two applicants per month. EOD technicians' responsibilities include detonating or defusing ordnance, inspecting munitions, humanitarian demining and anti-terrorism/bomb detection, a job whose scope has grown since 9/11, Angus said. Angus recommends the following to prospective applicants: "Think about why you joined the Marine Corps," he said. "If you joined for the right reasons, the intangible benefits of being a Marine, then EOD is for you." He assured prospects they'd be safer in the profession than on local highways. While the job doesn't scare him, he's not immune to fear. "Only when I drive on the streets of California. I-5 scares me," he said.Anyone interested in becoming an EOD technician should contact their career planner.