Navy Veteran Helps Peers Transition to Civilian Life

Keithan Smith spent 21 years in the United States Navy, retiring in 2023 after serving as a chief petty officer. He now directs strategic operations for VetsForever, an accredited law and advocacy group based in Mansfield that helps veterans navigate the transition to civilian life.

Smith enlisted in August 2002, three days after the September 11 attacks, while stationed at a military processing center in St. Louis. He recalled that his recruiter told him he could leave if he changed his mind, but he returned two days later to finish his processing. His service included assignments at the National Security Agency, the Pentagon, and aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Pinckney.

After 14 years in intelligence, Smith deployed to sea and earned Senior Sailor of the Year honors twice. He eventually retired following the birth of his daughter, whose delivery involved medical complications for his wife. Smith said he chose to stay home with his family after realizing the Navy would replace him if he returned to sea.

Smith worked briefly in the Secretary of the Navy’s office in Washington, D.C., before moving his family to Texas. He joined VetsForever to address the gap he felt between military service and civilian expectations. He described himself as a fish out of water in corporate America after retiring.

VetsForever provides legal support for veterans seeking disability benefits and discharge upgrades through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Smith said the organization helps veterans who often leave the service unaware of available benefits. He noted that his stepfather, an Army veteran, was among those who received increased disability compensation through the group.

Smith said he views his current role as continuing his service to the nation. He stated that veterans form a distinct community that has shaped the United States. He aims to help service members understand their benefits and resources after they remove their uniform.

The organization works with Black and elderly veterans to secure necessary support. Smith said he wanted to ensure other veterans did not feel as lost as he did during his own transition. He wakes up each day willing to give his whole self to the work.

Smith’s path to the military was influenced by his family background in St. Louis. 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 to continue his family’s tradition of service.