Native of Birmingham, Alabama, Sergeant Noah Galloway was assigned to the 1st of the 502nd Infantry of the 101st Airborne Division out of Fort Campbell, Kentucky during Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Just three months in to his second tour of duty, he experienced a life changing injury. On December 19, 2005, Galloway lost his left arm above the elbow and left leg above the knee in an Improvised Explosive Device attack. He was transported to Germany to receive medical treatment, remaining unconscious for five days. Galloway woke up late in the evening on Christmas Eve to learn he lost two of his limbs and sustained severe injuries to his right leg and his jaw. Galloway was then transferred to Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, DC.
After a long stint in recovery and rehabilitation, Galloway did what many disabled veterans do, becoming withdrawn, out of shape and depressed. The former fitness fanatic and hyper competitive athlete was now drinking, smoking and sleeping his days away. But late one night, Galloway took a long look in the mirror and realized there was more to him than the injuries. And he set a goal to get back in shape, be healthier and inspire others.
Now a fitness expert and motivational speaker, Galloway doesn’t take excuses from his clients, fans and followers – and finds ways to get things done. He continues to compete, participating in adventure races around the country, such as Tough Mudder, Spartan events, fitness competitions plus numerous 5Ks, 10Ks and marathons.
A sought after public speaker, Galloway travels the country sharing his story, encouraging and motivating others to offer no excuses. From elementary school assemblies to veterans’ organizations to corporate sales meetings, Galloway’s enthusiasm for life and his passion for helping others brings a unique perspective to gatherings.
Most recently, Galloway lead his team to victory on FOX’s new hit series American Grit, where teams were tested with various military challenges. He also took third place in Season 20 of ABC’s hit series, Dancing with The Stars. Following his appearance on the November cover of Men’s Health Magazine, he was named the publication’s 2014 Ultimate Guy. Adding to the list, Galloway released his first book a memoir; Living with No Excuses the Remarkable Rebirth of an American Soldier. The book sheds light on his upbringing in rural Alabama, his military experience, and the personal battles he faced to overcome losing two limbs during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Like many of Noah’s initiatives, this book is both entertaining and inspirational. He’s also been a guest on numerous national talk shows including Ellen and The Today Show.
A firm believer in giving back to those around him in need, Galloway recently created the No Excuses Charitable Fund, which raises money and awareness for organizations that mean the most to him, including Operation Enduring Warrior and No Barriers USA.