From the “Line of Death” near Libya to Lost Rhino Brewing Co., a brewery in Ashburn, VA, Dave has been confronted with the choice to travel down the expected path or to choose to veer toward what captured his interest. He was brave enough to choose the latter, and when he pursued what he loved, he let nothing deter him. When you love what you do, you tend to do it well. This philosophy carried him all over the world—even to the halls of the White House.
Dave’s story began in Pittsburgh, PA, in a large Irish-American family—one of seven children. He was a good student who seemed destined to become a physician, as several in his family had done before him. After attending Central Catholic High School, he enrolled in St. Vincent College to study pre-medicine. While he performed well academically, he quickly realized he had no passion for medicine. During his senior year, the Navy sent recruiters to the college for a routine recruitment presentation. Dave was captivated by the stories of the Korean War and the opportunities available in the Navy—especially flying, which he previously thought was only done in the Air Force. He signed up right away, and off he went to become a Commissioned Officer.
His first stop was Pensacola, FL where he attended Aviation Officer Candidate School. He successfully completed his training and flew for a while, but during his time learning he was introduced to the world of Naval Intelligence. Intelligence sparked his interest like nothing else had before, and he managed to get into the Intelligence Officer pipeline. From there, his career in the Navy took off.
His assignments led him all over the world, and he witnessed some of the tumultuous events most of us only read about in history books. He was there in the Gulf of Tonkin during the reported attack on US naval vessels, which led President LBJ to escalate military action in Vietnam. During the Vietnam War, Dave served in the Mekong Delta, where he never lost a man on any intelligence missions in support of riverine operations. His service took him to northern Europe, where he engaged people who were accessing the Soviet Union. Later, he was selected to serve as the Naval Attaché at the U.S. Embassy in Israel from 1975 to 1978—a critical time in Middle Eastern geopolitics. The Navy sent him on submarine recon missions inside the “Line of Death” near Libya. With each new opportunity that presented itself, Dave followed his interests and instincts, dedicating himself to becoming the best he could be in each role. Dave’s 27-year military career is a remarkable testament to dedication, expertise, and leadership. He established himself as a key figure in intelligence, counterterrorism, and executive-level management, contributing significantly to the safety and security of the United States.
In the mid-1980s, Dave was detailed to serve in the Reagan White House on then Vice President George H.W. Bush’s Task Force on Combating Terrorism, working on strategies to address emerging threats. Following that role, he returned to the Navy to head Intelligence for the Atlantic Fleet. He was then personally requested to serve as Director of Border Security for the George H.W. Bush’s Administration from 1990 to 1991. During this career-defining role, he worked to implement the recommendations of the 1985-1986 Vice President’s Task Force on Border Security. He spearheaded interagency efforts to strengthen the nation’s borders during a time of growing international challenges.
Continuing to follow what intrigued him most, Dave transitioned into the private sector, leveraging his expertise to found McMunn Associates Incorporated. As President of this consulting firm, he provided policy-level support to the highest echelons of the U.S. Government. His company, later acquired by Parsons Corporation, is renowned for its capabilities in intelligence analysis, maritime security, emergency incident management, and training, serving both government and private sector clients.
Even now, Dave continues to contribute thought leadership to the national security community, offering insights drawn from his extensive career. He is a Senior Fellow at the Foreign Policy Research Institute’s (FPRI) Center on Terrorism, Counter-Terrorism, and Homeland Security. In fact, he was awarded the Red Tie Award in 2022 for his significant and long-lasting contributions to Naval Intelligence.
While his professional accolades are remarkable, and he could tell you fascinating story after story, Dave sincerely maintains that his greatest achievement is his family. He has been happily married to his wife for 62 years, and together they have built a beautiful family with kids, grandkids, and even a great-grandson. Dave and his wife now dedicate much of their time and resources to managing their McMunn Family Foundation, through which they support numerous charities they believe in.
Dave is also actively engaged at Lost Rhino Brewing Co. in Ashburn, VA. Dave has long had a passion for craft beer, in particular Irish Stout – given his Irish heritage. In fact, his favorite brew at Lost Rhino is an Irish Stout, called Shooter McMunn’s, which was created in 2017 to honor his late brother. We recommend giving Shooter McMunn’s a taste at our March 1st event hosted at Lost Rhino, as we raise funds and awareness for The Jax Act and Cultural Support Team Veterans.
Dave’s career reflects an unwavering commitment to protecting the nation and advancing the fields of Intelligence and National Security. His unique blend of military service, private sector leadership, and academic insight positions him as a trusted authority on issues ranging from border security to counter-terrorism. His legacy is one of service, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of excellence in safeguarding the nation.
When asked what advice he would give to Service Members and Veterans as they seek to either further their military careers or transition into the private sector, Dave said, “Run for daylight and trust your gut.” He recalls chasing down every opportunity that piqued his interest and excited him—then he stuck to it and gave it all he had. When given the choice to take the obvious path, or follow what ignites your passion and interests, take the risk to pursue the spark.
