DALE DAVIS

Dale's Background: Dale is a disabled Navy veteran and retired Air Traffic Controller with 31 years of government service. As an Eagle Scout, he was raised on goal setting, community service, and a love of country. After high school, he earned a degree in International Business-Asian Studies from the University of Maryland. In May 2013, Dale became a PADI Scuba Instructor and continues his instructor training to this day.

Dale's Passion for the Ocean: Growing up on the Panama Canal, Dale spent his childhood watching the waves and ocean-bound ships, setting an early course for his life. Driven by his love of the ocean and inspired by Jimmy Buffett, he became a scuba diver in college. Dale continued diving in California and Japan during his time with the Navy. When his two sons came of age, Dale shared his love of scuba with them by attending the Florida Sea Base and the Boy Scouts of America's High Adventure base.

Path to Adaptive Scuba Training: As a Scuba Instructor, Dale encountered students on the autism spectrum or with other cognitive issues. One such student inspired Dale to become a better teacher and learn more about people with disabilities. As a disabled Navy veteran, Dale felt the need to give back. He earned his first Adaptive Scuba Instructor certification in December 2017 and continues to expand his adaptive knowledge. Before founding the BADASS Foundation, Dale helped establish and manage other similar foundations. His goal has always been to give back and make scuba diving experiences available to those who may have thought it was impossible.