Eric Schnabel has built a career marked by service, discipline, and leadership across the military, government, and community sectors. With decades of service in uniform, he remains active in supporting national security. His steady dedication has earned the trust and respect of those who have served with him and worked alongside him.
Forging a Military Career
Eric began his military journey in 1995 by enlisting in the U.S. Army. Starting as an infantryman, he soon earned his commission from the Virginia Military Institute. His firsthand experience as a Mustang officer gave him a strong understanding of the Army, from its ground-level operations to upper-level command.
Through rigorous airborne training and earning the Ranger tab, he took part in six combat deployments in Iraq, Afghanistan, and the Persian Gulf. He also served as a paratrooper with both the 101st and 82nd Airborne Divisions. Over ten years on jump status, he earned Master Rated Airborne Wings with 82 jumps.
Leadership in Combat and Unit Operations
As his career progressed, Eric Schnabel held increasing responsibilities. He commanded ground forces during Operation Iraqi Freedom and during several deployments to Afghanistan. His leadership was instrumental in capturing enemy combatants, directing complex unit actions, and leading through prolonged conflict.
With the 82nd Airborne Division, he served as a Battalion Operations Officer and Executive Officer. In these capacities, he oversaw operations involving over 800 personnel and later managed a 770-person parachute infantry battalion. His excellence in logistics, training, aviation support, and planning was recognized through multiple Bronze Star awards.
A Strategic Influence at the Pentagon
Moving into higher-level strategic roles, he served in several key defense policy positions. His assignments included the Office of the Secretary of Defense Staff, Joint Staff, and Army Staff, where he collaborated closely with senior leadership.
As Deputy Director and Chief of the Assessments Branch on the Joint Staff, he led concept development and conducted capability assessments across various services and commands. He also played a role in strategic planning efforts under the Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence, helping integrate technology with operational strategies.
A key assignment during this period was his role as Director of Joint Integration for the Office of the Secretary of Defense. Here, he worked in support of the Close Combat Lethality Task Force. This involved coordination with the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Special Operations Command, and others to enhance combat capabilities. He also played a role in securing funding for training, research, and equipment.
Transition to Civilian Leadership
After more than 25 years in uniform and achieving the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, he transitioned into civilian roles while maintaining his focus on national service. He moved into the business development field, primarily supporting organizations connected to the Department of Defense, Department of Homeland Security, and the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Eric Schnabel's background made him well-suited to navigating complex systems, and he focused on building strategic partnerships, expanding market presence, and supporting mission objectives in the private sector. He continued to apply the same commitment and structured approach that had marked his military career.
Commitment Beyond Profession
Outside of his official roles, he consistently demonstrated a sense of duty in his community. For over 15 years, he served in the Knights of Columbus and held a leadership role at the Army-Navy Country Club. He also served as President of his neighborhood's homeowners’ association.
Eric's community involvement extended to the Board of Governors and the presidency of the club’s nonprofit foundation. Through these roles, he helped preserve military traditions and supported various staff and educational initiatives.
He also helped establish the Medal of Honor Library, ensuring that recipients' stories are preserved and accessible to future generations.
Eric Schnabel’s Personal Legacy
Though his professional achievements are significant, he considers his family his greatest success. He values his over two decades of marriage to his wife, Trish, and takes great pride in their daughter, Julia.
Reflecting on his path, he continues to be guided by the principles that have shaped every stage of his journey. From combat zones to strategic planning at the Pentagon and beyond into civilian service, these values remain at the core of who Eric Schnabel is and what he continues to represent.
