Military Branch: Navy; Rank: LCDR

Summary:

David grew up an Army brat just outside of Fort Knox, KY. He was an all-around athlete and avid soccer player. As a teenager he developed a passion for scuba diving that fueled his drive to become a Navy Diver.

David enlisted in the US Navy in January of 2001 as a Photographer's Mate and then was selected as a Second Class Navy Deep Sea Diver. He completed Navy Dive School in Panama City, FL in 2001. He was then appointed to the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, MD, and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Ocean Engineering in 2007.

Upon graduation from the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, MD, David was selected as an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Officer.

David married the love of his life, Cynthia Ward Meadows, the day after graduation at the Naval Academy Chapel in Annapolis, MD.

Soon after their marriage, Cyndi was pregnant with their first child Ava Jade Meadows who was born while David was attending EOD School in Eglin AFB, FL. David then conducted two deployments with EOD Mobile Unit SIX to the Arabian Gulf where he led as a Platoon Commander and then Company Commander. During his second deployment he became a father to their second child Peyton Rose Meadows.

Upon his return from deployment, David became a department head for the Chemical/Biological Department and Demolition Department at EOD School in Eglin, FL. He was then a Department head at Navy Experimental Dive Unit in Panama City, FL, where he also received his Masters Degree in Project Management from University of Louisville. David was then transferred to Naval Air Station Patuxent River, MD as an Acquisitions Officer for the Harpoon Missile. While at Pax River, he completed his second Masters' Degree in Acquisitions from the Naval Postgraduate School.

Outside his stellar naval career, David was a member of Hiland Park Baptist Church. He was also a devoted coach for his daughters' sports teams and studiously learned everything he could about field hockey, lacrosse, and despite being allergic to all hooved animals -- he supported his daughter's equestrian endeavors.

Of all David’s accomplishments, he was most proud of being a devoted father and loving husband. He led by example, showing that family was the most important thing we have in this world.

Life Achievements/ Recognitions:

His distinguished service medals include: Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Navy & Marine Corps Commendation Medal, Meritorious Unit Commendation Medal, Air Force Achievement Medal, and Navy & Marine Corps Achievement Medals.