A U.S. Army officer has shattered the world record for the fastest mile run in a bomb suit, showcasing the unmatched grit and resilience of America’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) technicians.
Story Highlights
- Captain Travis Chewning-Kulick set a new world record, running a mile in 7 minutes and 4 seconds while wearing a 62-pound bomb suit.
- The record-breaking run took place at Fort Cavazos, Texas, and is pending official confirmation by Guinness World Records.
- The achievement highlights the extreme physical and mental demands placed on EOD technicians, who routinely operate under life-threatening conditions.
- Chewning-Kulick’s feat is inspiring renewed focus on EOD fitness, morale, and the importance of readiness in high-risk military roles.
- The event has drawn widespread recognition and praise from military leaders and the EOD community.
Record-Breaking Feat at Fort Cavazos
Captain Travis Chewning-Kulick, commander of the 752nd Ordnance Company (EOD), completed a mile run in just 7 minutes and 4 seconds while wearing a full 62-pound bomb suit at Fort Cavazos, Texas. The run, held at Phantom Warrior Stadium on April 25, 2025, surpassed the previous men’s record by 20 seconds. Chewning-Kulick’s accomplishment is now awaiting official confirmation from Guinness World Records. The event was organized and witnessed by fellow soldiers, with official timing and documentation submitted for review.
Why This Record Matters
Explosive Ordnance Disposal technicians are among the most physically and mentally resilient members of the U.S. military. Their work requires not only technical expertise but also the ability to move quickly and efficiently while wearing cumbersome protective gear. Chewning-Kulick emphasized that EOD Soldiers must be able to keep pace with conventional units to respond rapidly and safely to explosive threats. His record run demonstrates the level of conditioning necessary for these high-stakes missions and serves as a powerful example for the entire EOD community.
The tradition of bomb suit runs is rare but deeply meaningful, highlighting the unique challenges faced by EOD personnel. Previous records were set by both U.S. and UK military officers, with the last men’s record established in 2017 by British Army officer Mark Gibbs. Chewning-Kulick’s achievement is a testament to the dedication and professionalism of American EOD technicians.
Impact on Military and Public Awareness
Chewning-Kulick’s record has sparked renewed interest in EOD fitness and the demands of hazardous military roles. The event has been widely covered in military and mainstream media, raising public awareness of the risks and responsibilities faced by EOD personnel. Army leadership and EOD community members have praised the achievement as inspirational and a testament to the resilience required in one of the military’s most dangerous jobs.
The record may also influence future training standards and drive innovation in bomb suit design, aiming to improve both mobility and protection. For defense contractors and developers, Chewning-Kulick’s feat sets a new benchmark for physical performance in hazardous occupations and could prompt further research and development in personal protective equipment.
As the EOD community celebrates this milestone, Chewning-Kulick’s record stands as a symbol of American strength, determination, and the unwavering commitment to protecting our nation’s security.
Sources:
US Army Officer Sets New World Record for Mile Run in Bomb Suit
Army Officer Sets Record for Fastest Mile Run in EOD Bomb Suit
Chewning-Kulick ’17 Sets Bomb Suit Run World Record
Army Bomb Suit Run Guinness Record
World Record Defused: Fort Cavazos Captain Runs Fastest Bomb Suit Mile
