Monday, August 15, 2022
I first met Keen in the fall of 1967, when we were both in SEAL Team 1, stationed in Coronado, California. I was assigned as a Platoon officer and Keen was assigned as my Asst. Platoon officer. In November our platoon of SEALS was sent to DaNang, Vietnam, to be in charge of the training and operations of what was called the Vietnamese “Sea Commandos.” Keen and I worked well together. We enjoyed each other’s company, always got along well, and had mutual respect. We also worked out together, challenging each other’s strength. I always enjoyed Keen’s many stories, and his soft-spoken voice. When we returned to the US we were given other assignments and eventually left the Navy to pursue different careers, Keen in Kansas and I in Illinois. Although we had only seen each other a few times since our Navy days, I always felt a deep connection with Keen. When we spoke to Anita, not too long ago, we were deeply saddened to learn of his dire condition. While on the phone, it sounded like someone picked up an extension and then I heard that soft low voice say, “Hi, Fred” and I was immediately transported back to the days we served together in Vietnam.
