Daniel R Kostrzebski

Daniel R. Kostrzebski was born and raised in rural western New York State. The most popular fact about that quiet county is that it has more registered Holsteins than registered voters. The eldest of five children, Dan learned the value of hard work on his family’s small farm. They were taught respect for all in their community, both young and old. Schedules were set by the rising and setting of the sun and dinner bells. His humble, small-town beginnings blossomed into a noteworthy, 40-year military career.

While serving in the U.S. Army at satellite locations worldwide, he earned an associate degree, a Bachelor of Science in Public Administration, and a Master of Science in Health Services Administration.

While working his way up the enlisted ranks, Dan served in various Military Occupational Skills, including Military Police, Ordinance, and Special Operations, finishing his military career with the infamous 5th Special Forces Group. His extensive training included Airborne School, Pathfinder School, Air Assault School, Ranger School, and Combat Diver School, while attaining professional qualifications as an Army Jumpmaster and Dive Master. Dan’s service in Special Operations took him to the Middle East and East Africa, along with numerous military exercises throughout the U.S.

Dan has a special affinity for the superhero Aquaman, as water operations have been among his favorite tasks. “Jumping from a plane into the open water is a rush like no other.” After retiring from the U.S. Army in 2003, he served as a Federal Air Marshall and with local law enforcement for a few years until taking a job with a defense contractor which he retired from in 2022. He continues to serve his community, church, and family.