Sandeen graduated from Lake City High School in 1985.

The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Lanesboro.

“I learned growing up the value of hard work and tenacity,” said Sandeen. “When you grow up in a farming community, there’s no, ‘I can’t get this done.’ You have to figure it out.”

Sandeen joined the Navy in 1986 and served aboard multiple ships deployed to the North Atlantic, Pacific Ocean, Indian Ocean, Arabian Gulf and Mediterranean Sea. Sandeen had a 10-year break in service that allowed him to serve at Navy and Marine Corps Reserve Centers in Des Moines, Iowa and Milwaukee. Today, Sadeen serves as the command master chief aboard Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek.

“I joined the Navy to better my life,” said Sandeen.

According to Navy officials, Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story is the country’s premier installation for housing and training the nation’s expeditionary forces. It is one command with two properties: Joint Expeditionary Base Fort Story and JEB Little Creek. The Joint Expeditionary Base is comprised of the former Naval Amphibious Base Little Creek and the Army post of Fort Story. Fort Story witnessed the humble beginnings of the nation at the 1607 first landing site. Little Creek began as a dynamic training ground for World War II amphibious forces.

With 90 percent of global commerce traveling by sea and access to the internet relying on the security of undersea fiber optic cables, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity of the United States is directly linked to recruiting and retaining talented people from across the rich fabric of America.

Sandeen serves a Navy that operates far forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation’s prosperity and security.

“We will earn and reinforce the trust and confidence of the American people every day,” said Adm. Lisa Franchetti, chief of naval operations. “Together we will deliver the Navy the nation needs.”

Sandeen has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.

“I’m most proud of my family,” said Sandeen. “All four of my sons followed in my footsteps and joined the Navy.”

Sandeen can take pride in serving America through military service.

“Serving in the Navy helps me help others,” said Sandeen. “The only reason I do this is to help sailors. Knowing their life is better motivates me to keep serving.”

Sandeen is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.

“My wife, Christiane, is as much a factor for my career as anything,” added Sandeen. “We got married before I joined the Navy, so she has been with me through the entire Navy journey.”