A Marine's worst nightmare came true in a split second.

In this episode of Urban Valor, Marine veteran Kyle Hansen recounts the devastating moment his AAV (Amphibious Assault Vehicle) ran over a natural gas line, sparking a massive explosion that left him severely burned and changed his life forever.

Kyle served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 2014–2018, starting in Marine Security Forces guarding nuclear assets at Naval Submarine Base Bangor. He later transitioned to 1st Marine Division’s 3rd Assault Amphibian Battalion, training for overseas deployment. But during his final exercise, the explosion tore through the vehicle, injuring several Marines and a Navy corpsman.

In this interview, Kyle shares the mental and physical aftermath of combat trauma, what it means to lead under fire, and how brotherhood shaped him. He also opens up about recovery, Wounded Warrior Battalion, and reclaiming purpose after being medically retired.

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Video Chapters: 
00:00 – The Day of the Explosion  
02:12 – Inspiration Behind Joining the Marines  
04:03 – Boot Camp & Culture Shock  
13:30 – Infantry Training Battalion & Leadership  
19:18 – Security Forces & Advanced Combat Training  
28:45 – Assigned to Bangor, WA  
36:15 – Brutal Patrols & Brotherhood Lessons  
43:45 – Transitioning to the Fleet  
54:24 – The AAV Explosion Incident  
56:22 – Recovery & Wounded Warrior Battalion  
1:01:54 – Medical Retirement & Mental Health Struggles  
1:07:47 – Finding Purpose After Service  
1:11:08 – Final Words on Leadership & Giving Back  
1:13:22 – How to Support Recycle for Veterans  

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