Referee, U.S. Army general, and engineering executive, Richard B. (Dick) Burleson is a professional keynote speaker who uses humor, wisdom, and stories gleaned from an illustrious career to entertain and enlighten.
Life on the Field
Currently the vice president of Neel-Schaffer, one of the leading engineering firms in the U.S., Dick has made a name for himself in two distinguished areas: athletics and the military. Dick prides himself on his 25 years of experience serving as a football official with the Southeastern Conference, including working a full schedule of top SEC games each year as head referee. He has officiated fifteen major bowl games and the SEC championship game, and his last game on the field was as a head referee for the National Championship Rose Bowl game.
Dick has served as Chief Referee and President of the SEC, has been inducted into the Alabama High School Sports Hall of Fame, and currently serves as a SEC staff advisor on officiating and evaluates officials’ performance each Saturday from the SEC Command Center (an insightful story in itself!).
As a professional motivational and keynote speaker, Dick regales crowds with humorous and thought-provoking anecdotes from his 25 years spent on the field in the middle of the action.
Life in the Service
Dick is also known for his extensive career in the U.S. Army. He rose to the highest rank in the Army Reserve – that of Major General – and after graduating from the Army War College, became Commanding General of the world’s largest Army Reserve Command. He oversaw eight states and 40,000 troops, including over 5,000 troops who served on active duty during Operation Desert Storm. General Colin Powell personally decorated General Burleson’s units.
One of General Burleson’s highest personal honors came when he was awarded the Spirit of America’s Audie Murphy Patriotism Award, which had only been given to 23 total Americans.
In his role as a military guest speaker, the General shares insight, wisdom, and stories from his military career – lessons in leadership, service, and motivation to inspire audiences.
In addition, Dick is a best-selling author. His book, “You Better Be Right”, has reached the #1 Best Sellers list at Barnes & Noble Bookstores.
Contact Dick Burleson if you are looking for an inspiring and ultimately entertaining professional keynote speaker for your next engagement.