Built by Fire: A True Story of Courage, Faith, and Service
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.
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.
Available on Amazon and Streaming Services
Amazon Kindle & Paperback: View David Burnell’s Amazon Author Page
⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑ “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!” - Diane
⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑ “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.” - Eve
⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑ “What an extraordinary life. Very interesting and good read.” - Lezlee
⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑ “Engaging read that kept the pages turning.”
⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑ The way this book 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.” - Lyndon
⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑ “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.” - Clark
⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑ “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.” - Carlos
⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑ “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.” - Megan
⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑“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.” - Conrad
⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑ “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
