Army Officer Breaks Bomb Suit Mile World Record
In a remarkable display of endurance and determination, a U.S. Army officer has set a new world record for the fastest mile run while wearing a full bomb disposal suit, according to a November 25 report published by Military Times titled, “Army officer sets record for fastest mile run in EOD bomb suit.” Capt. Harrison Clarke, an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) technician stationed at Fort Liberty, North Carolina, completed the grueling physical feat in 7 minutes and 16 seconds, surpassing the previous record by four seconds.
Clarke, a member of the 707th Ordnance Company, wore the 84-pound protective ensemble commonly used during high-risk bomb disposal operations. The suit, designed to shield personnel from explosive blasts, significantly restricts mobility and increases body temperature, making any extended physical activity extremely taxing.
In comments to Military Times, Clarke described the run as both a personal challenge and a tribute to the EOD community. “I wanted to show what EOD techs are capable of—physically and mentally,” he said. The officer trained for months under the guidance of athletic coaches and fellow soldiers, incorporating strength, endurance, and heat-resistance training into his regimen.
The record-setting attempt took place on an official track under supervision to ensure compliance with Guinness World Records standards. Timers, certified witnesses, and video documentation ensured transparency and accuracy throughout the event. Clarke’s time narrowly beat the requirement to qualify as a new world best, edging out the previous mark of 7 minutes and 20 seconds set by another military EOD specialist.
Beyond the physical demands, the achievement carries symbolic weight. EOD technicians often operate under extreme conditions, where stress, isolation, and physical strain are constants. Clarke’s run, while a singular act, underscores the resilience and discipline required in a field that attracts little public attention but demands the highest level of precision and courage.
Military officials praised Clarke’s achievement as a testament to the exceptional standards of today’s Army professionals. “This record reflects not just individual excellence, but the ethos of the EOD profession and the commitment service members have to pushing boundaries both operationally and physically,” said Lt. Col. Maria Lopez, commander of Clarke’s battalion.
According to the Military Times report, Clarke intends to use the visibility from the record to raise awareness and support for the EOD Warrior Foundation, a nonprofit organization that assists wounded EOD technicians and the families of fallen service members. He is also considering other endurance challenges aimed at spotlighting military occupational specialties that often go unnoticed outside the armed forces.
Clarke’s efforts will now be submitted for official certification by Guinness World Records, a process that can take several weeks to finalize. In the meantime, the Army officer continues his role with the 707th Ordnance Company, balancing routine duties with a newfound status as a record holder in one of the world’s most demanding and dangerous professions.
