Eric Schnabel Male • United States of America

Eric Schnabel has dedicated his life to purposeful service, leadership, and commitment across military, government, and community roles. With decades in uniform and continued involvement in national security efforts, he has earned the respect of peers and leaders alike. Throughout his career, he has remained focused on duty, responsibility, and mission-driven impact.

He began his military service in 1995 as an infantryman in the U.S. Army and later earned his commission through the Virginia Military Institute. His experience as both an enlisted soldier and an officer gave him a strong understanding of military operations from multiple levels. He completed airborne and Ranger training and served in six combat deployments across Iraq, Afghanistan, and the Persian Gulf.

While serving in the 101st and 82nd Airborne Divisions, he maintained jump status for more than 10 years, completing 82 jumps and earning Master Parachutist Wings. He led ground forces through high-stakes missions during Operation Iraqi Freedom and multiple deployments to Afghanistan, overseeing complex movements, capturing enemy combatants, and guiding teams through challenging conditions.

In the 82nd Airborne Division, he served as a Battalion Operations Officer and Executive Officer, managing organizations of 830 and 770 personnel. His work in logistics, aviation support, training, and intelligence contributed significantly to mission readiness and earned him multiple Bronze Stars for his performance in combat operations.

He later transitioned to strategic roles at the Pentagon, serving on the Office of the Secretary of Defense Staff, the Joint Staff, and the Army Staff. As Deputy Director and Chief of the Assessments Branch, he led planning and capability assessments across service branches. In his role as Director of Joint Integration, he supported initiatives to strengthen close combat capabilities and helped secure essential funding for critical defense programs.

After retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel, he continued his service through civilian leadership in defense-related business development and nonprofit efforts. Above all, he values his family, with his marriage and daughter as his proudest accomplishments. Eric Schnabel continues to live by the core values that shaped his life of service.