After graduating from high school in June 1979, Dave briefly pursued college coursework but discontinued his studies due to financial constraints. Instead, in the fall of 1980, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy in which he was stationed stateside during the Cold War.

Dave’s active duty responsibilities included serving as a pier supervisor during the loading of missiles and torpedoes onto submarines—a position requiring secret clearance. His duties also included serving on the U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guard Drill Team, which involved marching in parades and participating in 21-gun salutes for events such as funerals. Dave additionally competed successfully in base boxing tournaments (SMOKERS), which he greatly enjoyed. After two years of service, in 1982, Dave married and started a family. In the fall of 1983, he was honorably discharged from active duty.

Immediately upon Dave's active duty discharge, he began serving in the U.S. Navy reserves. His reserve work mainly involved operating heavy construction equipment. While he enlisted as an E-1 Torpedoman, he finished his military service obligations with the rank of E-6 First Class Builder. Dave was honorably discharged from reserve duty with 3.92 evals.

Few photographs from Dave's military years exist, but some appear below, along with letters of commendation he received while serving and his honorable discharge certificates.