David Burnell

David Burnell

Veteran | Rescuer | Storyteller | Instructor

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Testimonial

★ ★ ★ ★ ★“David Burnell has been a teacher, mentor, friend, and example to me for more than a decade. I have sat and learned at his feet, trained with him, and worked beside him. I have never met a man more fit for a calling in life than David - and this IS a calling. He was born to lead, born to teach, born to fight for what is noble and right, and born to be a force for good against what oftentimes seems to be overwhelming opposition in this world. David has taken his natural physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual gifts and, through the blood, sweat, and tears of service and sacrifice to his fellow man, become the consummate warrior leader. He would charge into a fight or fire all alone and against all odds to save an innocent stranger. He has done it. I would follow him anywhere. He has been one of the biggest inspirations and influences in my life as a husband and father, as a professional businessman, as a paramedic first responder, as a front line emergency medicine provider, as a SAR team member, and as man of faith. If you are striving to be better or if you have been tasked with helping others strive to be better, David Burnell can and will play a major role in helping you accomplish your goals. He has done this in my life on more occasions than I can count. I am a different and much better man because of him and to know him is a blessing beyond measure."- Corbin Allred

About David Burnell

David Burnell is a decorated U.S. Air Force veteran, humanitarian, and mission-driven entrepreneur. With decades of experience across global combat zones, disaster relief efforts, and leadership training, David’s life embodies service, sacrifice, and purpose. He blends tactical expertise with faith, using storytelling, training, and media to equip others to stand ready—mentally, physically, and spiritually.

Trusted Voice in Crisis Response

David Burnell has been featured as a trusted subject-matter expert on major national networks including CNN, MSNBC, and a wide range of local and national media platforms. With decades of experience in military service, hostage rescue training, crisis response, and personal safety instruction, David has provided expert commentary on active shooter incidents, tactical readiness, and resilience under pressure.His calm, experienced voice and real-world credibility have made him a sought-after guest in times of crisis and national concern.

Background & Military Training

David served in the U.S. Air Force from 1984 to 1994 as a Communications Operations Specialist, supporting intelligence, tactical communications, and joint-service missions worldwide. He completed advanced training in Hostage Rescue and Personnel Recovery, preparing for high-risk operations in hostile environments.Military Highlights:- Meritorious Service Medal
- John Levitow Award – Top Graduate, USAF Leadership School
- Top Secret/SCI Clearance (former)
- Graduate – Hostage Rescue, Crisis Response, Counter-Terrorism, TCCC, and moreFollowing his military career, David provided high-risk executive protection for medical teams and civilians in conflict zones. In 2002, he founded the Urban Warfare Center, a revolutionary tactical training facility for military and law enforcement professionals. He also developed and taught the Combat Stress Program, helping elite operators perform under extreme pressure.

Entrepreneurship & Media Platforms

David has founded and led several mission-driven ventures:- Urban Warfare Center – Pioneering force-on-force tactical training for U.S. military and law enforcement (2002-2012)
- OPSGEAR® – Tactical equipment brand and online store (Sold 2017)
- Echo Valor – A multimedia platform honoring warriors and rescuers through spoken ballads, music, books, and film
- CAMO HQ – A specialty brand offering historically inspired camouflage apparel and gearEvery brand David builds is rooted in service, realism, and legacy.

Rescue & Humanitarian Missions

David has conducted and led hundreds of real-world search and rescue and humanitarian operations in:Locations Served: Japan • Haiti • Burma • Nicaragua • Thailand • Costa Rica • United StatesMission Types:- Ice dives & underwater body recoveries
- Swift water & flood rescues
- Missing person night operations
- Hostage & victim recovery
- Mountain & wilderness SAR
- Vehicle extrication & urban disaster response
- K9 search coordination
- Indigenous medic training (Karen, Burma)
- Post-disaster child/family reunification
- Tactical extractions from hostile zonesFrom natural disasters to armed conflicts, David’s commitment is clear: Protect life. Bring hope. Serve with honor.

Faith & Purpose

David’s mission is deeply anchored in his relationship with Jesus Christ. Through trauma, loss, and spiritual refinement, his life story is one of redemption and calling. His message is not just about survival—but testimony, transformation, and grace.

Books & Storytelling

David is the author of Built by Fire, a compelling memoir of trauma, war, faith, and spiritual rebirth. Through personal stories and hard-earned wisdom, the book offers hope, purpose, and courage to those facing their own battles.Available in Paperback, eBook, and Full Audiobook.

Get David's Book on AMAZON

Films, Music & Spoken Word

David has produced over 16 training films and tactical documentaries, as well as motivational shorts, music videos, and spoken word tributes. His works are used in military briefings, first responder training, and humanitarian outreach.- Echo Valor Podcast
- Original music and spoken ballads
- Real-life rescue and non-permissive mission features
- YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more

Training Programs & Outreach

David is the creator of the Defensive Tactics Program, taught globally through live training, DVDs, and seminars. His classes and programs have impacted thousands of soldiers, SWAT teams, and civilians.Programs Include:- Free Self-Defense for Women – Empowerment and situational awareness
- Combat Stress Resilience Training – Thriving under pressure
- Civilian Safety Workshops – Real-world preparedness and awareness
- Faith-Based Leadership Events – For youth, veterans, and families

Certifications & Expertise

David holds over 40 advanced certifications including:- Public Safety Scuba Instructor (PSSI) – Top Honors
- Certified Hostage Rescue & Counter-Terrorism Operations
- Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC) & Combat Medic Instructor
- Close Quarters Battle (CQB) & Use-of-Force Trainer
- Urban Warfare, Vertical Rescue, Ice Diving, Swift Water, and SAR
- Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
- National Taekwondo Champion
- Certified in Anti-Human Trafficking & Conflict Zone Operations
- Graduate Crisis Response International (CRI) - Bodyguard High Risk Areas & Counter Terrorism
- Graduate IKON Office Solutions Presidents Business School

Speaking Topics & Events

David Burnell is a powerful speaker whose message blends real-world experience with spiritual insight. He has spoken at:- Corporate retreats and symposiums
- Churches, youth events, and retreats
- Military installations and tactical training academies
- Leadership seminars and universities
- Humanitarian and resilience forumsPopular Keynotes:- Built by Fire – From trauma to testimony
- Faith Under Fire – Finding God in the battlefield
- Combat Stress & Mental Resilience – Mental armor for life
- The Warrior Ethos – Courage, honor, and calling
- Empowering Women – Real-world self-defense and confidence
- Overcoming Darkness – Healing, forgiveness, and faith
- Living Clean in a Dirty World – A challenge to the rising generation