Dan spent more than 30 years in special operations, primarily as a Combat Controller and Special Tactics Officer. His numerous combat and clandestine deployments have taken him around the world and include Operation Gothic Serpent, popularly known as Black Hawk Down from the movie and book bearing the same name, where he is credited with saving the lives of a Ranger and SEAL Team Six SEAL while under fire. He later founded and then served as the first commander of two special operations squadrons, one of which’s name and purpose remains classified. His military certifications include HALO and staticline master parachutist, Special Forces combat diver, and demolitions instructor.
A purveyor of adrenaline-fueled endeavors, he holds the Guinness World Record for most BASE jumps in 24 hours (201), a feat he conducted to benefit children who’ve lost a parent in special operations through the Special Operations Warrior Foundation. He is also a pro-rated demonstration skydiver, speedwing flyer and expert skier and volunteer instructor with Wasatch Adaptive Sports, helping those with disabilities to experience the thrill of downhill skiing.
Dan is a full-time writer of both fiction and nonfiction. In addition to books, his writing has appeared in Air Commando Journal, Cigar Aficionado and Parachutist magazines. He consults internationally on defense matters and speaks on life and leadership and lives in the Wasatch Mountains. He can often be found skiing or flying a speedwing near Alta ski resort. Visit him at DanSchillingBooks.com.
