Urban Valor: the podcast
Welcome to Urban Valor, where we hear the stories of our veteran heroes in their own words. Within these vet interviews, you'll hear everything from combat stories, life stories pre/post military, military transition, and everything in between. Our interviews aren't just war stories or combat veteran interviews, but interviews from any military veteran willing to share. Our mission is to educate the masses with what military veterans go through while serving their country and how life has been since their military transition back to civilian life. Join our cause, online community, and show your support for Urban Valor at https://urbanvalor.com
Urban Valor: the podcast
Marine Suffers Severe Burns From AAV Blast in Final Training Exercise
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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