How Long Was David Goggins in the Military?
David Goggins, a former United States Army Sergeant, is known for his incredible achievements and accolades in the world of sports, particularly ultramarathon running and endurance running. However, few know about his remarkable military background, which played a pivotal role in shaping him into the person he is today. In this article, we will delve into How Long Was David Goggins in the Military?
Initial Foray into the Military Life
David Goggins enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1991, at the age of 20. Initially, he was stationed in California, where he was sent to basic training and assigned to the 18th Training Wing. He received training in various military programs, including Nursing Assistant Training Program (NATP). This training laid the groundwork for his future service life.
Transition to the United States Navy SEAL Team
In 1998, Goggins attempted to join the Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL (BUD/S) Training, with the goal of becoming a United States Navy SEAL Team member. Unfortunately, during the first phase of his training, he had an asthma attack, forcing his medical discharge from the US Navy. This was just the beginning of Goggins’ determination and perseverance, despite facing numerous setbacks and struggles.
United States Navy Reserve and United States Navy SEAL Team
Unconvinced that this door was closed, Goggins decided to take up the challenge once again and enlisted in the United States Navy Reserve. Recalibration and intense conditioning allowed him to continue his training, this time with the Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squads (HS-75). In 1999, he achieved certification as a Ensign (Junior Grade) on the USS Hawes and became a Avionics Technician. Just two years later, in 2001, Goggins enlisted full-time in the US Naval Reserve.
Entry into the United States Navy SEAL Team
By the 2002-2004 period, Goggins had successfully completed his journey, becoming a United States Navy SEAL Team Member – a dream he thought impossible just a few years before. As a SEa, Air, Land (SEAL) Teams, Platoon Mako 8, Operario 1, Team Officer, Goggins embarked on numerous missions around the globe, including Combat Duty in Rumania and Southeast Asia. Here are some of the numerous military achievements and ranks reached by Goggins (Table 1).
| Years | Rank | 1994 | Tech 5 |
|---|
Active Duty and Medical Retirement
After serving for almost four years as a member of the United States Navy Special Warfare Command, David Goggins was forced into medical retirement due to spinal injuries sustained during multiple active duty deployments. With many challenges and setbacks under his belt, Goggins had to adapt once more to a new stage in his life.
Present Life and Legacy
This article has highlighted Goggins’ remarkable 9-year military career. Born from his experiences as both a Navy Technician and United States Navy SEAL, fitness, discipline, mental resolve, and resilience became lifelong principles. Having published several books, become an ultramarathon athlete and accomplished speaker, inspiring millions worldwide through his mantra "Unbeatable Spirit", David Goggins’ military experiences greatly contributed to his path becoming one of the world’s most renowned endurance runners today.
Conclusion
There you have it: An in-depth look into how long David Goggins was in the military: almost 9 years with multiple roles, missions and accomplishments. His tenacious determination and unwavering spirit, forged from each setback and triumph in Nursing Assistant, Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL and United States Navy Reserve / United States Navy SEAL career paths, have resulted in his current status as inspiration and icon in both martial and sports realms.
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