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Built by Fire: A True Story of Courage, Faith, and Service
When others ran from the flames, David Burnell ran toward them. From frozen-lake dive recoveries to gang-torn city streets, from the rubble of Haiti and the radiation zones of Japan to the jungle conflict of Burma, Built by Fire is a first-person account of life on the edge—where duty, faith, and sacrifice collide.This isn’t a tally of medals. It’s the story of a veteran, rescuer, and humanitarian who learned that courage isn’t the absence of fear—it’s obedience to a higher purpose when fear is loudest. Burnell carries weapons and water, bandages and burdens; he stands guard on rooftops, kneels in shattered homes, and wades into black water where seconds separate life from loss. The work leaves marks: trauma, doubt, nights that don’t end. But the same fire that scars can also refine.At the heart of this book is a personal redemption—a hard road of repentance, forgiveness, and healing that restores what war and disaster sought to take away. Burnell confronts his failures and grief, chooses faith over fury, and discovers that grace is not the end of the mission but the strength to begin again.With cinematic realism and quiet reverence, Built by Fire honors warriors, medics, and the silent heroes who step into danger for those they may never meet again. It invites you to consider your own calling: to stand where it’s hardest to stand, protect the vulnerable, and believe that purpose and grace can outlast the storm—and remake a life from the ashes.
David Burnell - Author
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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. I 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.- Jim Collings
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A Powerful and Unforgettable JourneyBuilt 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.- Anonymous
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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 lives to protect us all. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, you’ll think, and you’ll find gratitude. A good read!- Diane Rush
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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.- Kelley Gilbert
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"Even though I have not ever been called to the same acts of service and sacrifice, I have related to these challenges that David has gone through and I have shed tears and have felt hope in the out come of these challenges. This book is an intimate and very honest expression. Once I started listening to, I couldn’t stop. It’s clear message of hope and hope in Christ is heart wrenching and wonderful. The insight to the sacrifices our Service men and women make was eye opening for me. Thanks to all how serve others in rescue, protection and armed service. This book can help us heal and find hope."- Lindy Lee
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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.- Brittny Owen