Retired Navy Chief Directs Veteran Support Group in Texas

Keithan Smith now serves as the director of strategic operations for VetsForever. The veteran-founded organization provides legal support to service members. Their work includes pursuing disability benefits and upgrading military discharges with the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Smith retired from the U.S. Navy in 2023. He served for 21 years as a chief petty officer, the E-7 rank. His time in uniform spanned from 2002 to 2023. He now uses his position to assist veterans in adjusting to civilian life.

The transition from military service to corporate work proved difficult for Smith. He described the shift as feeling like a fish out of water. He joined VetsForever to redefine his sense of duty. He views his current role as a continuation of serving the nation.

Smith was born in St. Louis and raised in a religious household. He saw military service as a logical career path. His stepfather served in the Army, and his aunt and uncle served in the Marines. Smith participated in Air Force JROTC before choosing the Navy.

He began his enlistment processing three days after his 17th birthday. On September 11, 2001, he watched the attacks on New York City from the Military Entrance Processing Station in St. Louis. His recruiter told him it would be understandable if he changed his mind. Smith completed his processing two days later.

Smith entered active duty in August 2002 as a cryptologic technician administrative. He led 90 recruits through basic training at Naval Station Great Lakes. At 18, he was assigned to the National Security Agency at Fort Meade. He handled administrative operations for two-star admirals.

By his mid-20s, Smith worked at the Pentagon. He coordinated transportation logistics for military leaders, government officials, and foreign dignitaries. After 14 years in intelligence, he deployed to the Arabian Sea aboard the USS Pinckney. He earned Senior Sailor of the Year honors twice.

Smith decided to retire after the birth of his daughter. His wife faced medical complications during the delivery. Smith wanted to be present for his family rather than return to sea. He noted that the Navy would replace him, but his family needed him. He moved to Texas to build a life with his family.

At VetsForever, Smith has helped Black and elderly veterans increase their disability compensation. He works with clients like his stepfather to secure deserved benefits. Many veterans leave the service unaware of available resources. Smith aims to help them navigate that gap.

Smith views his current work as the next phase of his life. He describes waking up willing to give his whole self as his definition of service. He believes the veteran community is essential to the current state of America. He continues to advocate for those who have left uniform.