Eric Schnabel

Consultant

Eric Schnabel has led a life rooted in service, discipline, and leadership, demonstrated through a long-standing career in the military, government, and community. His decades in uniform and continued involvement in national security reflect unwavering dedication and commitment. Those who have served with him recognize his professionalism, reliability, and focus on mission success.

Forging a Military Career

He began his military journey in 1995 by enlisting in the U.S. Army. Starting as an infantryman, he quickly distinguished himself and earned a commission through the Virginia Military Institute.

As a Mustang officer, he developed a deep understanding of both enlisted and commissioned service. His completion of rigorous airborne and Ranger training enabled him to deploy six times to Iraq, Afghanistan, and the Persian Gulf, demonstrating resilience and preparedness in high-demand environments.

He went on to serve as a paratrooper in the 101st and 82nd Airborne Divisions. Over the course of more than a decade on jump status, he completed 82 military parachute jumps and received Master Rated Airborne Wings.

Leadership in Combat and Unit Operations

Advancing through the ranks, he assumed greater responsibility. He commanded ground forces during Operation Iraqi Freedom and led multiple deployments to Afghanistan. His work involved capturing enemy personnel, directing tactical maneuvers, and leading units through sustained operations.

Within the 82nd Airborne Division, he served as the Battalion Operations Officer and Executive Officer. He managed an organization of 830 service members and supported the leadership of a 770-person parachute infantry battalion. His expertise in logistics, aviation support, planning, and training contributed to operational readiness and earned him several Bronze Star awards.

A Strategic Influence at the Pentagon

As his career evolved, he shifted toward strategic defense planning and interagency coordination. He served in positions across the Office of the Secretary of Defense Staff, the Joint Staff, and the Army Staff, working closely with senior defense officials.

In his role as Deputy Director and Chief of the Assessments Branch on the Joint Staff, he oversaw capability assessments. He helped develop operational concepts across service branches and combatant commands. He also supported strategic planning efforts under the Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence, aligning resources with national security priorities.

One of his key assignments was serving as Director of Joint Integration within the Office of the Secretary of Defense. There, he supported the Close Combat Lethality Task Force by collaborating with the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Special Operations Command, and others to improve close combat effectiveness. He also contributed to securing funding for research, training, and equipment improvements.

Transition to Civilian Leadership

After retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel and completing over 25 years of service, he entered the civilian sector, continuing to apply the same dedication and focus that marked his military career. He transitioned into business development roles supporting organizations serving the Departments of Defense, Homeland Security, and Veterans Affairs.

In these roles, he worked to build strategic pipelines, develop markets, and lead proposal efforts. His experience with complex military structures and operations positioned him to contribute meaningfully in mission-focused environments.

Commitment Beyond Profession

Outside of his professional responsibilities, he has remained active in serving his community. He spent 15 years with the Knights of Columbus, held a leadership role at the Army-Navy Country Club, and served as President of his local homeowners association.

He also contributed to the nonprofit foundation affiliated with the club, serving on its Board of Governors and as its President. In these capacities, he worked to support staff initiatives, educational programs, and the preservation of military tradition.

His efforts also helped establish the Medal of Honor Library, a project that honors recipients and preserves their stories for future generations.

Eric Schnabel’s Personal Legacy

While his professional contributions are significant, he considers his family his most outstanding achievement. He values his more than 20-year marriage and takes pride in the life he shares with his daughter.

Throughout his journey, he has remained guided by the principles of service, leadership, and integrity. From frontline combat to policy development and civilian leadership, Eric Schnabel's life reflects a steady dedication to duty and the people he serves.