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Built by Fire: The Life and Legacy of David Burnell (eBook)
Built by Fire: The Life and Legacy of David Burnell (eBook)
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What drives a person to step into chaos when others run away? What forges a life built on courage, faith, and service in an uncertain and fearful world?
Built by Fire is the true story of David Burnell—a veteran, rescuer, and humanitarian forged not in comfort but in fire. From earthquake zones to violent streets, underwater recoveries to humanitarian missions behind enemy lines, David’s life reflects a relentless pursuit of purpose in the face of chaos.
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This book is not about medals or glory. It is about answering the call to serve, protect, and bring light into the world’s darkest corners. Whether leading high-risk dive missions beneath frozen lakes, pulling the wounded from gang crossfire, or confronting danger to protect the defenseless, David’s journey is one of sacrifice, conviction, and enduring faith.
Born into a family of pioneers and warriors, he was raised on stories of grit and devotion. Those stories became a standard, shaping a man who would walk into deserts, jungles, disaster zones, and violent city streets—each trial forging character and purpose.
In Built by Fire, you will walk beside David through real missions around the world—some quiet and sacred, others brutal and unforgiving. These are stories of warriors and rescuers, families on the edge, children in danger, and moments when one person’s courage can change everything.
This is more than a memoir—it is an invitation to consider your calling, live with purpose, and see that we are not defined by our past but forged by it.
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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!