Keenan awarded Purple Heart

Keenan was serving as a battalion electronic warfare officer in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. While leading a convoy through Ar Ramadi, Iraq, his Humvee was attacked by an improvised explosive device (IED) that destroyed the vehicle and set it on fire. Disregarding his own injuries, he evacuated three other wounded Soldiers from the vehicle while it was still on fire. After saving the lives of his comrades, Keenan kept his composure and was able to secure the area. He then directed explosive ordnance disposal team operators to disable a second IED nearby.

Keenan's wife, Denise, watched proudly as VP-5 Commanding Officer Cmdr. Matt Pregmon pinned the Purple Heart Medal to his uniform. The rest of the Mad Foxes stood at attention and listened to the brave actions of their fellow shipmate. These actions reminded each of them of the Navy's core values of honor, courage and commitment. The values will be kept at heart as they prepare for a six-month deployment in December.