Keith A. Hansen Master Chief - U.S. Navy - 1968-1990

In February 1968, Keith A. Hansen was still in high school when he enlisted in the US Navy. On the deferred enlistment program, one could pass the physical, take all the tests, and sign on the line. He/she was allowed to finish high school before going to boot camp. Keith graduated in May of 1968. In June, he was on the way to San Diego, CA, and the Navy Recruit Training Center.

This training center shares a fenced border with the Marine Corps Recruit Depot. In fact, Keith said, there was one young man who went AWOL. He climbed over the fence (and onto the MCRD)… and the Marines ap...