Nathan P. Olsen, a lieutenant colonel in the United States Air Force, is a 2022-23 Military Fellow at The Washington Institute. He most recently commanded the 52nd Civil Engineer Squadron at Spangdahlem Air Base in Germany. Previously, he served as chief of the Bases Branch for United States Air Forces Europe - Air Forces Africa. In that role, he led strategic basing initiatives in support of the Office of the Secretary of Defense, European Command, and USAF operations.
Born in New Mexico, Colonel Olsen earned his commission from the United States Air Force Academy in 2003. After commissioning, he served in a variety of base-, command-, and headquarters-level positions and has deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Inherent Resolve.
Colonel Olsen’s major awards and decorations include the Bronze Star with one oak leaf cluster; the Meritorious Service Medal with three oak leaf clusters; the Joint Service Commendation Medal; the Air Force Commendation Medal with one oak leaf cluster; and the Navy Commendation Medal, among others.
Education
B.S., U.S. Air Force Academy
M.S., Air Force Institute of Technology
M.S., Air Command and Staff College
