David Russell

David Russell’s journey into the military was shaped by both personal circumstances and a sense of mentorship. Born and raised in the small town of Albemarle, North Carolina, David found himself at a crossroads in 1968, unsure of how to pay for college. Encouraged by his best friend, he decided to volunteer for the draft, despite his initial hesitation due to the Vietnam War. His friend had the grades but not the money for college, while David lacked both the funds and academic credentials. The idea of serving for two years in exchange for college funding seemed like a logical solution. Tragically, shortly before he enlisted, David’s mother passed away, leaving him with the freedom to make the decision without familial obligations.

David credits much of his military success to the mentorship he received from his Boy Scout leader, Chuck, a World War II paratrooper with the 82nd Airborne Division. Chuck’s influence was profound, as many of his Scouts, including David, followed in his footsteps and became paratroopers themselves. This early exposure to discipline, leadership, and outdoor survival skills prepared David well for his future in the Army.

After enlisting, David was placed in the infantry, while his best friend, who had a high IQ, was assigned to military intelligence. David quickly found himself immersed in the rigors of Army life. He attended Ranger School, became a paratrooper, and graduated from the Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO) Academy at Fort Benning, Georgia. One of his classmates was Tom Ridge, who would later become the first Director of Homeland Security after serving as the Governor of Pennsylvania. David and Tom developed a close friendship during their time in the NCO Academy, with Tom graduating at the top of their class.

At the young age of 19, David was deployed to Vietnam, where he rose to the rank of Staff Sergeant, becoming a platoon sergeant responsible for leading men into combat. He recalls the intensity of serving in Vietnam, often flying in helicopters with his legs dangling off the side, speeding through the air at 60 knots. He vividly remembers receiving medals in the mail after returning home, including two Air Medals, which he didn’t even know existed at the time. 

David’s experiences in Vietnam, particularly his time as a Long-Range Reconnaissance Patrol (LRRP) team leader, were formative. He recalls being thrust into leadership at a young age, especially after his team leader was severely injured, an event that deeply affected him. This experience of responsibility and leadership in life-or-death situations shaped David’s approach to life and his future career.

After leaving the Army at just 20 years old, David initially struggled to adjust to civilian life. A friend later pointed out that it wasn’t until he met his wife that he truly began to find his footing. David and his wife were married for 47 years before she passed away, and together they raised a son and a daughter. His son eventually moved to Florida, and David followed, moving to the Sunshine State eight years ago.

In his civilian career, David worked in construction, became a tractor-trailer driver, and eventually found his calling in sales and business development. He credits his time in the Army with giving him the skills needed to succeed in these fields. The structure, discipline, and leadership training he received in the military proved invaluable in his roles as a salesman, sales trainer, and ultimately as the president of a sales organization.

Now retired, David spends his time traveling, hiking, and golfing with friends. He regularly visits North Carolina and other parts of the country, reconnecting with old friends and enjoying the beauty of nature. He also has plans to visit Ireland, Scotland, Wales, New Zealand, and Italy in the coming years.

Reflecting on his life, David emphasizes the importance of structure and focus. He encourages young people to figure out what matters most to them and to pursue it with intensity. His message is clear: “Always ask yourself, what’s the best possible use of my time right now to achieve my goal?”

David is also deeply concerned about the current state of the country. He urges people to take pride in America and reject divisive ideologies, believing that unity and common sense are key to a prosperous future.