Baxter Ennis has a diverse background in military, academia, politics, publishing, fundraising and community involvement. He served 21 years in the United States Army, retiring as a lieutenant colonel. While serving with the 82d Airborne Division, he deployed on the first aircraft during the First Gulf War. He also participated in a combat parachute jump with the division during the Panama Invasion. He currently serves on the Chesapeake Hospital Authority, has served as president of the Chesapeake Rotary Club, the Virginia Beach Forum, and is President of the Hampton Roads Leadership Prayer Breakfast.