ABOUT THE AUTHOR
A retired air force aircrew member, Dave played a major role in Operations Just Cause, Desert Shield, and Desert Storm. Dave was selected for the unique task of mid-air refueling of the once highly secretive SR-71 Blackbird and the F-117 Stealth Fighter. While serving in the air force, Dave worked in juvenile hall and other programs involving youth at risk throughout California.
Dave’s exceptional accomplishments include commendations from presidents Reagan, Bush, and Clinton, as well as other heads of state. While maintaining an international active-duty flight schedule, Dave was the recipient of the 1990 JCPenney Golden Rule Award, making him the California Volunteer of the Year. In 1993, Dave was honored as one of the Ten Outstanding Young Americans (TOYA), joining a distinguished group of alumni that includes Chuck Yeager, Christopher Reeve, Anne Bancroft, John F. Kennedy, Orson Welles, and Walt Disney. In 1994, Dave was the only American to be selected as one of The Outstanding Young Persons of the World (TOYP), for his efforts involving child abuse awareness and prevention, as well as for instilling resilience in others. During the centennial Olympic Games, Dave was a torch bearer, carrying the coveted flame.
When not on the road or with his wife, Marsha, or son, Stephen, Dave is either traipsing through Carmel or living a quiet life in Southern California, with his box turtle named Chuck.
Some of the names in this book have been changed in order to protect the dignity and privacy of others.
