An unexpected conversation at a Coast Guard unit in Seattle set Chief Petty Officer Thomas Hansen on a path that would eventually lead to a historic accomplishment. After years spent repairing navigation buoys, recovering sea aids and executing underwater missions from Massachusetts to Antarctica, Hansen became the first member of the U.S. Coast Guard to complete the Navy’s prestigious Master Diver Course.
Considered the highest level of qualification an enlisted military diver can attain, this accomplishment represents a major milestone for the Coast Guard’s relatively young diving community and could pave the way for future generations of divers.
Long before he became the Coastie’s first master diver, he was repairing buoys
Hansen was working as an instrument technician for the Marine Safety and Security Team in Seattle when his executive handed him an application for candidates interested in joining the Coast Guard’s diving program.
Having the opportunity to take on a new challenge, he applied and was selected to train diving candidates. In 2015, he graduated as part of the first class of Coast Guard rated divers, just weeks after the Diver (DV) rating was officially established.Although Hansen quickly embraced his new identity as a diver, he originally planned to spend only four years in the specialty before applying to the Coast Guard Investigative Service.
That plan changed as his love for diving grew. The profession satisfied his curiosity, provided him with opportunities to travel, and provided the constant problem-solving that he enjoyed. Eventually, he decided he couldn’t imagine giving her up.Over the years, Hansen has participated in numerous underwater operations. He repaired and repositioned navigation buoys from Massachusetts to Palau and carried out missions including jetties in Antarctica.
He particularly enjoyed restoring damaged aids to navigation, and took pride in leaving them “clean afterwards”. The work allowed him to combine technical expertise with a passion for exploration.
A question in 2020 that inspired a new goal
While serving at Coast Guard Diver School in 2020, Hansen and his fellow divers were discussing the future of the service’s diving program. Since Coast Guard members already attended the Navy’s first- and second-class diving schools, Hansen wondered why they did not have the Navy’s highest diving qualifications.
This question eventually became his next challenge.After advancing to the position of president, Hansen aggressively sought to become president of the diving school. He believed the role would provide the best opportunity to learn from the Navy’s more experienced divers and prepare himself for the demanding Master Diver program. The relationships he has developed and the knowledge he has gained will be invaluable in helping him earn a place on the elite course.
The Master Diver course is one of the most difficult military courses
The Master Diver Course is held at the Marine Rescue and Diving Training Center in Panama City, Florida, and represents the pinnacle of recruit diving experience. Candidates must first pass a grueling six-hour written exam before undergoing five weeks of training designed to test their ability to supervise complex underwater operations, including deep-sea rescue and underwater repairs.One of the most difficult parts of the program is known as the “rolling week.”
During this phase, seven senior Navy divers evaluate candidates through a series of drills and exercises without providing any feedback. Participants have no idea whether they passed or failed until the final assessment. The uncertainty and pressure make it one of the most mentally demanding experiences in military diving.
A surprise meeting revealed his death
As Hansen was questioning the senior officials at the end of the session, a familiar face suddenly appeared from behind the wall.
He was a close friend who served as a diving command officer in Hawaii. The unexpected appearance immediately told Hansen that he had succeeded. The emotional moment confirmed that he had become the first Coast Guardsman ever to complete the elite divers course.Hansen views his accomplishment as a stepping stone, not a finish line. He hopes to create a clearer path that will allow more Coast Guard divers to pursue master diver qualifications. Leaders across the Force Readiness Command praised his dedication and commitment to mentoring future generations.Despite this recognition, Hansen’s passion for diving has not changed. His message to anyone considering this career is simple: “If you want the best job on earth, become a Coast Guard diver.”
