Keith Humphrey

• Branch: US Navy
• Years Served: 1975 – 1985
• Rank: E6
• Military Occupation: AD1 – Aviation Machinist Mate (Jet Mechanic)
• Hometown: Derby, KS
• Twitter Handle: @Keith_Humphrey

Tell us a little about you outside of the military:

I am a marathon runner with six marathons and several hundred shorter races under my belt, including three completions of the Pikes Peak Ascent race. I am also a PADI Rescue Diver and an independent filmmaker, having written and produced a Hong Kong feature film called “Miles Apart” in 2000. Currently, I am the President and CEO of Jet AirWerks, LLC, a large commercial jet engine component repair shop. I am a Gold Star Father-in-Law, as my son-in-law, Sgt. Michael Martins, USMC, was killed in an accident on November 9, 2009. I am a veteran and military family advocate with a history of legislative involvement, including initiating a bill to cover death gratuity costs during government shutdowns and working on HR1928 – Families of Fallen Servicemembers First Act. Additionally, I helped create a Veteran’s Treatment Court in Sedgwick County, Kansas. I am married to Thérèse Humphrey and have a blended family of six kids and six grandkids. I have been sober since February 22, 1982.

Why are you participating in the fly-in with IAVA?

I want to use my experience to help improve the lives of veterans, military service members, and their families.

How did your military experience shape you to be the person you are today?

The military provided me with a home and a trade. I leveraged my initial military training to secure civilian jobs and eventually start my own business.

Which one of IAVA’s policy priorities do you believe is the most pressing? Why?

Improving the justice system to support veterans and service members is critical. We need to focus on treatment for service-related issues rather than incarceration. Providing veterans and service members with a second chance, especially when their infractions are tied to their military service, is the honorable approach.

Which one of IAVA’s policy priorities do you have the strongest personal connection to? Why?

I have a strong personal connection to the creation of Veteran’s Treatment Courts. I have been actively involved in getting a Veteran’s Treatment Court started in my community and am knowledgeable about the subject. My own recovery from alcoholism began while I was in the Navy, and I utilized the available resources. Veterans and service members often need access to treatment through the justice system or a VTC, and I believe these courts provide a valuable path to rehabilitation and support.