Commander Schlegel graduated magna cum laude from Washington and Lee University in 1985 with degrees in both French and Journalism. He received his commission in 1986 upon completion of Officer Candidate School in Newport, Rhode Island. CDR Schlegel held a Master of Arts degree in International Affairs from Old Dominion University and received a Naval War College diploma for completion of the Joint Professional Military Education program.

His awards include the Purple Heart, a Meritorious Service Medal, four Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals, the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, a Meritorious Unit Commendation, a National Defense Service Medal, an Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, the Armed Forces Service Medal, five Sea Service Deployment Ribbons and a NATO Medal.

CDR Schlegel was devoted to his wife, Dr. Dawn Schlegel, and two children, He lives on in the hearts of his many friends, colleagues and family.

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