Major General David C. Garza, USMC, (Retired)

Major General Garza was born in Los Fresnos, Texas and began his career in the United States Air Force in 1969 as a Heavy Equipment Engineer. In 1970 after his military occupational skill training, he deployed to the Republic of South Vietnam for a 19-month tour of duty. In September 1971 he returned to the United States and in 1973 he closed out his Air Force career with an Honorable Discharge at the rank of Sergeant. Following his discharge from the Air Force he attended Texas A&M University and in 1977 graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree.

In 1978 he returned to military service in the United States Marine Corps as a Second Lieutenant of Infantry. In 1999 he earned a Masters Degree in National Security and Strategic Studies from the Naval War College in Newport Rhode Island. In an exciting and rewarding 34-year journey including combat tours in Desert Shield/Desert Storm and twice in Afghanistan plus a tour in Latin America, Major General Garza served in world-wide assignments as a Commander, Director, and Staff Officer.

His most important personal awards are his Combat Action Ribbons and The Order of Saint Maurice in the rank of Primicerius presented to him by the National Infantry Association for his selfless service, integrity, and professional competence to the infantryman and the nation.

He retired from active service after 38 years and is now President and CEO of Lead Your Ship LLC, a Leadership Consulting LLC providing leadership fundamentals to high school and college students and enabling wounded warrior events and transitioning veterans. He lives in New Braunfels, Texas with his wife Carrie, their Golden Retriever Alex and their rescue dog Lily.