Joel Schumacher

Joel Schumacher is a native of the Capital District and a resident of Jackson Heights in Queens, New York. In high school, he was active in La Salle Institute’s JROTC program, and he enlisted as a Private in the United States Army Reserves days after his 17th birthday – a very brave young man. 

Shortly after completing Basic Training at Fort Jackson, South Carolina, Mr. Schumacher was appointed to the United States Military Academy, where he rose to become Regimental Executive Officer. He was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in 2003, and went on to study International Relations at the University of Cambridge, writing his Master’s Thesis on military personnel policy and counterinsurgency operations. He then served as a staff officer in the 304th Military Intelligence Battalion, the unit responsible for training junior officers in the MI Corps. He performed his tasks for the nation with intelligence, diligence and respect. 

Upon leaving military service as a First Lieutenant, Mr. Schumacher dedicated himself to teaching. Eager to share his enthusiasm for American history and government, he taught courses on Writings of the Founding Fathers, Political Theory, and American Public Policy to students in Latin America and to United States military personnel. 

With the hope of returning to government service, Mr. Schumacher enrolled in Yale Law School. During his fi nal year, he was hired by United States Senator Kirsten Gillibrand to work as Constituent Liaison for Military and Veterans Affairs, a position which he currently holds. Mr. Schumacher assists America’s veterans and military personnel by acting as an advocate for them before the federal agencies. He also directs the Senator’s service academy nomination process and conducts outreach with military and veteran organizations across New York State. 

Mr. Schumacher’s awards and decorations include the Army Achievement Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, the Parachutist Badge, the French Airborne Badge, the French Forces Commando Badge and the German Armed Forces Proficiency Badge. 

Joel Schumacher is an intelligent and honorable soul, who deserves to be recognized to this day for his achievements and promotions within the United States military – and also for his work as a civilian, educating the youth of his community and advocating for veterans and their rights.