Eric Schnabel

He began his military service in 1995 by enlisting in the U.S. Army as an infantryman and later received his commission through the Virginia Military Institute. With experience as both an enlisted soldier and officer, he gained a well-rounded view of military structure and operations. He completed airborne and Ranger training, followed by six combat deployments to Iraq, Afghanistan, and the Persian Gulf.

During his time with the 101st and 82nd Airborne Divisions, he spent more than 10 years on jump status and completed 82 jumps, earning Master Parachutist Wings. He led ground operations during Operation Iraqi Freedom and multiple missions in Afghanistan, directing complex movements, capturing enemy combatants, and guiding his teams through sustained periods of conflict.

He served as a Battalion Operations Officer and Executive Officer in the 82nd Airborne Division, managing units of 830 and 770 personnel. His work in logistics, aviation support, intelligence, and training contributed directly to mission success and earned him multiple Bronze Stars for performance under combat conditions.

Later in his career, he served in strategic positions at the Pentagon, including assignments on the Office of the Secretary of Defense Staff, Joint Staff, and Army Staff. As Deputy Director and Chief of the Assessments Branch, he led cross-service planning and capability assessments. In his role as Director of Joint Integration, he supported close combat improvement initiatives and secured critical funding for training, research, and equipment.

After retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel, he moved into business development and nonprofit leadership, continuing his work in defense and veteran support. Above all, he values his family, with his marriage and daughter representing his proudest achievements. Eric Schnabel continues to be guided by the principles that shaped his life of service.