“Success is not final; failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.” ~ Winston Churchill
Every journey starts with a single step, yet it’s the miles walked, and the obstacles overcome that truly define the path. In a world where challenges are as inevitable as the sunrise, stories of resilience, service, and unyielding courage remind us of the incredible potential each of us holds within. The tale of David Brian Galloway is one such narrative—a beacon of inspiration that illuminates the power of the human spirit to not just endure but to triumph, even in the face of daunting adversities.
In the heart of Baltimore, MD, on October 1, 1951, David Brian Galloway began a journey that would take him from the floors of a shoe store to the sands of the Gulf War, from the seat of a bicycle to the author’s desk, and from the devastating aftermath of an accident to an inspiring recovery.
Education has played a crucial role in David’s life. He holds degrees in Criminal Justice and Paralegal Studies from the Community College of the Air Force, complemented by a Business Management degree from the University of Mount Olive. These academic achievements have not only enriched his professional life but have also underscored his belief in the power of continuous learning and growth.
David’s early career saw him climbing the ladder in the retail world, moving from an assistant manager position in a shoe store to its manager. However, his heart yearned for something more fulfilling. On his 22nd birthday, David made a pivotal decision that would set his life on a new course—he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. This decision marked the beginning of a distinguished 20-year military career that saw him serving both as a Security Police officer and a Paralegal. His service took him across the globe, from Grand Forks Air Force Base in North Dakota to the deserts of Oman and Saudi Arabia during the Desert Storm Gulf War. His dedication and exemplary service were recognized through numerous military awards, including the Meritorious Service Medal and the Air Force Commendation Medal with three oak leaf clusters.
After retiring from the Air Force, David’s career path took several turns. He became a licensed claims adjuster, briefly worked for the U.S. Postal Service, and eventually found his “dream job” with the North Carolina Motorcycle Safety Education Program. However, in December 2006, life threw a devastating curveball at David. While out on a bicycle ride, he was struck head-on by an automobile, an accident that nearly claimed his life. The months-long coma, extensive hospital stays, and numerous follow-up surgeries that followed tested David’s resilience like never before. Yet, through years of physical and occupational therapy, he emerged not just as a survivor but as a beacon of hope and strength. This harrowing experience and his journey of recovery became the subject of his book, Chasing Seyboro.
Despite the physical challenges that continue to impact his life, David’s spirit remains unbroken. He has found strength in mental and spiritual resilience, proving that even in the face of unimaginable adversity, the human spirit can thrive. His story is not just one of survival but of profound transformation.
David’s life outside the military and his recovery journey has been equally impactful. He started an income tax business from his home, which has grown significantly over the years, thanks to his commitment to charging low fees and providing excellent service. His dedication to his community is evident through his 25 years of service as an election judge for Wayne County, NC, a decade-long tenure as a board member of the North Carolina Community Credit Union, and various volunteer roles in his church and local hospitals.
David Brian Galloway’s story is a testament to the human capacity for resilience, the importance of service, and the unyielding spirit of survival. From his early days in Baltimore to his current endeavors, David’s life serves as an inspiring reminder of what it means to serve one’s country, face life’s challenges head-on, and emerge stronger with each passing day. His contributions to his country, community, and those around him are a beacon of hope and a narrative of inspiration for generations to come.
