In a remarkable display of endurance and determination, Army 1st Lt. Madison Faust has set a world record for the fastest mile run by a woman wearing a full explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) bomb suit. Faust achieved this feat on October 15, 2023, completing the mile in an impressive time of 10:19. She is a platoon leader with the 55th Explosive Ordnance Disposal Company stationed at Fort Belvoir, Virginia.
Faust’s record-breaking run was accomplished while donning the Army’s latest 48-pound prototype bomb suit, developed by the Program Executive Officer Soldier. She surpassed the previous record held by Capt. Kaitlyn Hernandez, who completed a mile in 10:23 in April 2021 while wearing an older version of the suit that weighed 96 pounds, including a helmet.
Training and Support
As she prepared for the challenge, Faust was accompanied by her commander, Capt. John Morrissey, who provided pacing and support throughout the run. Morrissey emphasized the importance of setting challenging goals, stating, “Soldiers must be willing to do hard things and set goals that scare us. Faust has exemplified this in her pursuit of this record and therefore set an example for the entirety of the EOD career field and U.S. Army.”
Faust’s unit began testing the advanced chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, explosives (CBRNE) suit technology earlier this year. The enhanced mobility of the new suits inspired leadership to encourage Faust to attempt the world record. With a background in soccer from her time at West Point, she relied on rigorous training, hydration, and a carb-loading regimen in preparation for the run.
“I promise you there were some hard and demoralizing days,” Morrissey reflected. “But she kept showing up, she kept putting the suit on, and that unwillingness to quit is what got her the record.”
Implications for EOD Operations
The 55th EOD Company plays a crucial role in bomb disposal response missions across regions including Washington D.C., Virginia, Maryland, Delaware, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. The success of their missions depends on continuously upgrading equipment to enhance both safety and mobility, as well as training soldiers who willingly face hazardous situations.
Morrissey noted, “We are a volunteer-only military occupational specialty (MOS) and therefore made up of only those who freely made the choice to put themselves in hazardous situations for the sake of others.” He also highlighted the methodical and solution-oriented mindset required for EOD technicians, stating, “Our aim with pursuing this record is for it to inspire other EOD technicians to challenge themselves.”
Earlier this year, Army Capt. Travis G. Chewning-Kulick set the men’s world record by running a mile in 7:04 while wearing a 62-pound bomb suit at Fort Cavazos, Texas.
Faust’s achievement not only showcases her personal dedication and physical capabilities but also serves to motivate others in the EOD community to push their limits and strive for excellence.
