Built by Fire is a powerful and inspiring story of courage, service, and faith. David’s experiences show what it means to face danger with purpose and compassion. His journey through rescue missions and moments of sacrifice reminded me that we’re shaped by the challenges we overcome. A heartfelt and moving read that leaves you grateful for those who choose to serve.
Built By Fire was a gripping read that had me turning pages, wanting to discover more. Though I am not a rescue diver or a military veteran, I felt a special kinship with the author as he described the trials that shaped him. I felt the light that illuminated his perceptions as he changed and grew, learning with every setback and obstacle. It was memorable. I would recommend this book to anyone of any gender or background as an exemplary guide of overcoming PTSD and trauma with positivity, knowledge and the guidance of God.
Excellent read all the way through the last page!. Inspirational and eye opening as David shares his exceptional life from childhood, military service, Search and Rescue, and more missions around the world. He not only shares physical experiences but honestly and openly his thoughts, emotions, and his faith and spiritual experiences. Whether you are military, S&R, LEO or civilian, you will be moved by his resilience, courage, strong leadership, compassion, motivation, struggles, hope, and healing. The book reminds me that people like David Burnell are a blessing and are truly heroes in our world willing to sacrifice serving humanity doing unimaginable hard things and going places where others will not. Things which are never unseen, never unheard. David and others like him are Sheepdogs. It is their natural instinct and mission to serve, protect, defend and help-with great personal costs. I’m a civilian, loved this book and I’m certain it will speak to the heart and souls of those who have lived such a life. Deep heartfelt gratitude to David and all who serve. God bless each of you.
Listening to Built By Fire has been one of the few books that truely inspired me to perserver and choose courage over fear when I face my own challenges and adversities. I have read numerous books written by special operators and cannot think of any that addresses how those who choose to risk their lives so that others may be protected and live, internalize the emotions associated with taking those risks and the struggles they face dealing with them as well as the healing and redemption that comes from always striving and from Christ's mentoring when we pursue a personal relationship with Him. This book can be a great resource to anyone facing adversity, disappointment or any challenges. We can all apply the principles David so humbly and beautifully describes in his memiors to triumph over our own adversities by choosing courage over fear, perserverance, and faith in Christ.
I absolutely loved this book! Everyone can take these lessons and apply them into your everyday life. This book inspired me and wants me to become a better person! I recommend this book to everyone!
I am usually an aware person. However, this instruction was invaluable to me. It showed how me to be aware without seeing paranoid. I would highly recommend to any man to protect themselves or their loved ones and to keep them out of harms way. I also recommend this to any Women or children that want to have a heightened sense of awareness around them without feeling overwhelmed.
The book is so captivating. The real life stories really make you think about life and humanity and those who have the call to offer that to all. David is a true hero and to hear his experiences makes me appreciate all those brave men who, daily, sacrifice their life to protect us all. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, you’ll think, and you’ll find gratitude. A good read!
Your recent episode about "The Boy Named Red" from your book Built by Fire genuinely stuck with me, especially the way you described shaping your mindset amid the violence surrounding your childhood in Lawndale. That constant readiness to confront tough realities is a powerful theme...
What an extraordinary life. Very interesting and good read.
Engaging read that kept the pages turning.
The way "Built by Fire" captured your journey through war zones and humanitarian rescues was unforgettable, but what stuck with me most was your transparency about scars turning into purpose. The mix of service, loss, and hope is so rare in podcasting, and your reflections on how faith helped anchor you were truly compelling.
A Powerful and Unforgettable Journey
Built by Fire is more than a memoir—it's a raw, honest, and deeply moving account of a life shaped by service, struggle, and unshakable purpose. David takes you into the heart of combat zones, rescue missions, and humanitarian crises with a level of vulnerability and grit that's rare and refreshing.
What sets this book apart is how it weaves together intense, real-world experiences with moments of spiritual clarity and personal redemption. It's not just about what happened—it's about why it matters.
This book will speak to anyone who has worn a uniform, faced trauma, or simply asked the deeper questions about purpose and pain. It's a tribute to resilience, brotherhood, and faith in the face of the impossible. Highly recommended.
This book cuts straight to what matters—real options, real tools, and real talk about survival when the fight finds you. Burnell knows what works and what’s fantasy. I’ve added this to my recommended reading list for civilian defense courses.
As someone who’s worked in recovery operations, this book hit me hard. David doesn't sugarcoat the realities of the job—the loss, the trauma, the weight you carry home—but he also shows the strength and light that can come from walking through fire. It's raw, real, and redemptive.
I picked this book up expecting stories of military bravado. What I found instead was a deeply human account of service, grief, faith, and quiet courage. David writes with clarity and purpose, but it’s his humility and honesty that moved me the most. This book changed how I think about sacrifice and calling.
Built by Fire is a rare kind of memoir—one that tells the truth without ego and honors the burden of service without complaint. David Burnell’s journey through combat zones, disaster sites, and spiritual crucibles reminds us that warriors aren’t just forged in fire… they’re refined by it. A must-read for anyone who has served—or loved someone who has.
I live in a major city and this book helped me rethink how I walk, where I sit, and how I react. It’s personal security in practical steps.
This book doesn’t just prepare you for an attack—it prepares you to avoid one. Smart, situational, and rooted in real-world thinking.
I finally feel confident reading this. It doesn’t try to impress with jargon—it gives you what you need to know, and nothing you don’t.
One of the most clear and practical guides I’ve used in my classes. It’s not just about shooting—it’s about surviving. Burnell knows his stuff.
My father rarely spoke about his Cold War years, but this book helped me understand what he endured and why it mattered. Quiet, dignified, and honest.
A powerful tribute to the silent warriors who stood ready while the world teetered on the edge. Burnell captures the tension and pride of Cold War service perfectly.
We used this guide during an overseas deployment. It’s brilliantly simple and practical when seconds count and there’s no translator.
Quick, clear, and confidence-building. This isn’t flashy—it’s effective. It changed how I walk into a room.
Perfect for beginners or instructors who want to reinforce core skills. I’ve recommended this to every student who asks ‘What should I practice most?’