Trunnis Goggins Jr., the son of Trunnis Goggins Sr. and older brother of motivational speaker and former Navy SEAL David Goggins, has led a life shaped by the same turbulent circumstances that fueled David’s rise to fame. Yet, Trunnis Jr. offers a unique and often contrasting perspective on their shared past.
While David has publicly detailed the severe abuse they endured in his memoir Can’t Hurt Me, using it as a catalyst for his mental toughness, Trunnis Jr. reflects on his father’s complex character. He acknowledges the violence in their home but also believes their father, despite his flaws, loved their mother. This nuanced stance has sparked mixed reactions—some view Trunnis Jr. as a more empathetic figure, trying to make sense of a painful past, while others believe he may be downplaying the extent of the abuse that both brothers faced.
Early Life and Family Background
Born in Buffalo, New York, Trunnis Jr. Goggins grew up in a complex and often difficult household. His father, Trunnis Goggins Sr., was a strict and at times violent man who owned Skateland, a local skating rink, and The Vermillion Room, a bar. These family businesses played a central role in Trunnis Jr.’s upbringing, requiring him to balance work and school from a young age.
Despite the challenges at home, Trunnis Jr. Goggins had encounters with famous figures like Rick James and Chaka Khan, though at the time, he saw such experiences as ordinary. However, his family dynamic was far from ideal. His father’s multiple relationships and strict nature created a chaotic and often tense household.
A Family Divided: Moving to Indiana
Trunnis Jr. Goggins’ life took a significant turn when his parents, who were never married, separated. His mother decided to move him and his younger brother, David Goggins, to Indiana, a transition that exposed them to an entirely different culture. However, unlike David, who stayed in Indiana, Trunnis Jr. eventually returned to Buffalo after a year, choosing to work at the family’s skating rink once again.
Career and Military Service
After finishing high school, Trunnis Jr. Goggins initially pursued a career in banking. However, his aspirations in the industry were cut short due to the savings and loan scandal, which left him searching for stability. Seeking structure and discipline, he enlisted in the Navy, where he found the camaraderie and purpose that had been missing in his chaotic upbringing. His military service became a defining chapter in his life, providing him with the tools to navigate adulthood.
Personal Struggles and Family Tragedy
Throughout his life, Trunnis Jr. Goggins has faced significant personal challenges, including multiple marriages and difficulties expressing affection. Influenced by his father’s example, he came to associate love with material provision rather than emotional connection.
One of the most heartbreaking events in his life was the tragic loss of his daughter, Kayla. She was killed while trying to help a cousin during a shooting, an event that profoundly affected Trunnis Jr. and his family. To honor her memory, he remains closely connected to her legacy by raising his grandson, ensuring that Kayla’s spirit lives on through him.
Reconciliation with His Father
Despite the tumultuous relationship he had with his father, Trunnis Jr. Goggins eventually found a path to reconciliation before Trunnis Sr.’s passing. In their final moments together, his father expressed regret for his past actions and offered heartfelt apologies. This moment of closure allowed Trunnis Jr. to move forward with a sense of peace, reflecting on how his father’s choices had shaped his life.
Trunnis Goggins Sr
Trunnis Goggins Sr., born in 1949, was the father of David Goggins and Trunnis Goggins Jr. His life was marked by struggles with alcoholism and anger, which created a harsh environment for his family, particularly for David and his mother, Jackie. Despite his tough love and abusive behavior, Trunnis Sr.’s actions indirectly shaped David’s mental toughness and drive to overcome adversity.
While David and Trunnis Jr. both grew up under difficult circumstances, David ultimately turned these challenges into motivation, eventually becoming a Navy SEAL, ultramarathon runner, and motivational speaker. Trunnis Sr. passed away on November 5, 2013. His legacy, though complicated, contributed to David’s determination and resilience, which he has shared with the world through his story of perseverance and self-transformation.
Future Aspirations
Through all the hardships, Trunnis Jr. Goggins has come to believe in the importance of self-love, stating, “Always know to love yourself,” emphasizing that self-respect influences how others treat you. As he approaches retirement, he seeks a simpler life, focusing on strengthening family connections and personal growth.
Above all, he hopes to pass down the lessons he has learned to his grandson, encouraging him to build a future rooted in self-worth and resilience. Though he and David may have different interpretations of their past, both brothers remain committed to forging a legacy far removed from the one they inherited.
FAQ
Who is Trunnis Jr. Goggins?
Trunnis Jr. Goggins is the older brother of David Goggins and the son of Trunnis Goggins Sr. He grew up in Buffalo, New York, working in his family’s businesses.
How does his view of their father differ from David’s?
While David openly condemns their father’s abuse, Trunnis Jr. acknowledges the violence but believes their father loved their mother, leading to mixed reactions.
Did he serve in the military?
Yes, he joined the Navy after losing his job in banking.
What personal challenges has he faced?
He has struggled with relationships, expressing affection, and coping with the tragic loss of his daughter, Kayla, who was killed in a shooting.
Did he reconcile with his father?
Yes, before his father’s death, they had a reconciliatory conversation where his father expressed regret.
What life lessons does he share?
He emphasizes self-love, believing it shapes how others treat you.
What are his future goals?
He seeks a simpler life focused on family and personal growth.
