I'm not sure about friends & whatnot, but I was able to get into NFCU because I work on base at the Commissary(non federal worker; just a regular hourly Joe).
@Anonymous wrote:How did they verify that you worked there? Did you just tell them that and that was it? I'd like to possibly tell them something like that if it gets my foot in the door.
NFCU Security Dept is known for shutting down accounts that they cannot verify eligibility. Also, what you are suggesting, buying a membership that you know you are not eligible for is unethical IMO. Instead of trying to get around a known requirement, I would suggest putting your efforts into finding a credit union that you do qualify for, without the risk of having your accounts frozen.
https://www.navyfederal.org/how-to-become-a-member/how-to-become-a-member.php
The person working at the commissary is on DOD payroll, that's one way to be eligible. Just "telling" them something might get in briefly... but they do verify and investigate later on, and you could have accounts and cards frozen if you turn out not to be eligible. Why not just join Penfed, anyone can get in and it should satisfy the craving. 
Not even most veterans can join NFCU, and it can't just be a friend. Household member or family.
You click "help me join another way" here: A small one time donation to the organization gets you in. $15 or $20.
https://netmember4.penfed.org/NetMember/Forms/OpenAccounts/Eligibility.aspx?MEMBERSHIP
