David Briseno

United States Army Lieutenant Colonel David Briseno passed away on July 31, 2020, from a service-connected cardiovascular condition attributed to toxic exposure to burn pits. 

Born in Waco, Texas, Briseno was raised by his mother with the support of his aunt. He shared a close bond with his grandparents, and his grandfather was the primary example of what it meant to be a man and a provider. Briseno was one of four siblings, with two older sisters and one younger brother. From a young age, Briseno understood the importance of hard work and began working to help provide for his family, a commitment he maintained throughout his life. He was the ultimate family man and took great pride in caring for those he loved.  

Briseno joined the United States Army in 1993 to help fund his college education. He valued education and understood that earning a degree would provide him with greater opportunities to build a successful future and better provide for himself and his family. He attended Baylor University, where he earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Management Information Systems. He later continued his education and obtained a Master of Science degree in Health Information Systems.  

Briseno dedicated 27 years of honorable service to the United States Army. Throughout his military career, he earned numerous awards and decorations in recognition of his dedication and service, including the Armed Forces Reserve Medal with “M” Device and 10-Year Bronze Hourglass, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal (2nd Award), Army Achievement Medal (2nd Award), Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal (4th Award), National Defense Service Medal with Bronze Service Star, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and Army Reserve Component Overseas Training Ribbon. 

Briseno was a humble man who rarely spoke about his accomplishments. His dedication to his work and the soldiers he led was always evident to his wife, Cecilia. However, it was not until after his passing that she learned just how profound an impact, he had on those around him. During the COVID-19 pandemic, colleagues and soldiers he had led traveled from near and far to honor his life. Many shared stories of how Briseno befriended them when they were new and had no one to turn to, taking them under his wing and helping them reach their full potential. Others recalled how he would get out of bed in the middle of the night and drive to wherever they were when they were facing personal struggles and had no one else to call. 

One quality that was consistently mentioned was Briseno’s exceptional leadership. He cared for his soldiers not only as members of his team, but as individuals, taking a genuine interest in their lives and well-being. He believed in leading by example, doing the hard work he expected from those around him and holding himself to the same high standard of excellence he expected from others. Those who served under his leadership expressed that they would not be the soldiers or men they are today without his guidance, mentorship, and example. 

Briseno met the love of his life in 2012, and they immediately connected in a profound way. From the moment they met, they both knew they would marry each other, and just six months later, they made that promise a reality. Briseno and Cecilia were drawn to one another for many reasons, but what Cecilia loved most about him was his deep love and unwavering commitment to his family. His life revolved around his son, and she quickly saw what a devoted and loving father he was. He was also incredibly caring, and his witty sense of humor made every interaction fun and special. Knowing now that she would lose him less than eight years later, Cecilia is so grateful that they never waited to begin their life together or build their family. 

Cecilia reflects on countless cherished memories with her husband, each one holding a special place in her heart. Among them is their wedding, a small and intimate gathering where they planned every detail together, making the day uniquely theirs. It was their perfect day. There were many other special moments they shared, including their first Christmas together, the births of their children, and the traditions they created as a family. They loved carving pumpkins, taking photos with Santa, and writing each other love letters every New Year’s Day to read the following year. One particularly special memory was taking their family to Disney World in December 2017. Every moment felt magical, and some of Cecilia’s favorite photographs were taken during that trip because they were all together and, in those moments, everything felt perfect. 

While Cecilia treasures the many special memories they created together, it is the small, ordinary moments that she misses the most—the simple, everyday parts of life that once seemed so routine. She misses Briseno calling her during her lunch break, hearing him walk through the door after work, waking up and having coffee together, holding hands in the car, and laughing around the dinner table. It is those seemingly mundane moments that she now cherishes most. They were the simple things that made their life together so meaningful and special. 

Briseno leaves behind a legacy defined by service, loyalty, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to others. People often speak of striving to leave the world better than they found it, and there is no question that Briseno did just that. He gave his all in everything he did, whether serving his country, dedicating himself to his civilian work, caring for his family, or simply enjoying life with the people he loved. He was fiercely loyal and continually gave of himself to help others, never hesitating to be there for those who needed him. It would be impossible to measure all the ways Briseno left his mark on the world, but he had a way of making everything around him better, leaving what many would call his “golden touch” wherever he went. Above all, Briseno gave of himself until he had nothing left to give. He learned from his mistakes, lived with integrity, and showed through his actions what it means to live a life dedicated to others. His greatest legacy lives on in the lives he shaped, the people he mentored, and the family he cherished. 

It is difficult to put into words all that Briseno meant to his family, friends, and the many people whose lives he touched. While he was often known for his professionalism, strong work ethic, and dedication, those closest to him treasured the lighter side of his personality. He possessed a sharp sense of humor, a quick wit, and a playful nature that could bring laughter to any situation. Whether sharing a joke, telling a story, or engaging in conversation, Briseno had a gift for making people feel welcome and at ease. He was genuinely interested in others and valued meaningful connections, forming friendships and relationships that left a lasting impact. Those who knew and loved him remember not only what he accomplished, but also the joy, laughter, and authenticity he brought into their lives. 

Today, Briseno’s memory remains woven into the fabric of his family’s everyday life. Cecilia and their children honor him by embracing the values he cherished while also holding close the traditions and small moments that keep his spirit near. They remember him through his love of learning, his passion for history, and his deep pride in his country. They smile when enjoying his favorite slice of pie, listening to music he loved, attending Texas Rangers games, or repeating the playful expressions that became part of family life, such as calling eyes “peepers” and mouths “soup coolers.” In these moments, his presence is still felt. Though the loss remains immeasurable, the love, lessons, and memories he shared continue to guide his family, remaining a lasting source of strength, comfort, and guidance. 

United States Army Lieutenant Colonel David Briseno is survived by his devoted wife, Cecilia; his beloved sons and cherished daughter; his loving mother; his aunt; two sisters; a brother; and two nieces. 

The Tunnel to Towers Foundation has paid off the mortgage on the Briseno family home through the Gold Star Family Home Program.