McClure, Ill., man gets Navy promotion

Navy Fireman Apprentice Chris A. Keppner, son of Nikki R. and Chris A. Keppner of McClure, Ill., was recently promoted to his current rank upon graduation from recruit training at Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, Ill. Keppner received the early promotion for outstanding performance during all phases of the training cycle. Training included classroom study and practical instruction on naval customs, first aid, firefighting, water safety and survival, and shipboard and aircraft safety. An emphasis was placed on physical fitness. The capstone event of boot camp, "Battle Stations," gives recruits the skills and confidence they need to succeed in the fleet. It is designed to galvanize the basic warrior attributes of sacrifice, dedication, teamwork and endurance in each recruit through the practical application of basic Navy skills and the core values of honor, courage and commitment. Its distinctly "Navy" flavor is designed to take into account what it means to be a sailor. Keppner is a 2008 graduate of Shawnee High School of Wolf Lake, Ill.