(This article originally appeared in the February 2026 issue of Military Officer, a magazine available to all MOAA Premium and Life members who can log in to access our digital version and archive. Basic members can save on a membership upgrade and access the magazine.)

Prior to joining the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps in 2014, Cmdr. Brian Czarnecki worked for Fortune 100 and Fortune 500 companies in the private industry as well as for a construction building developer while going to school in the evenings, earning two master’s degrees. But he also wanted a way to give back.

“I wanted to contribute and pay it forward by protecting, promoting, and advancing the health and safety of the nation,” he said.

Today, when not deploying to serve on a public health emergency, disaster, or special federal mission, the USPHS Commissioned Corps commander is stationed at the National Park Service’s Historic Preservation Training Center as an environmental health officer.

People Centered

“The highlight of my service has been serving with the dedicated men and women of all the uniformed services and government servants on 15 temporary duty assignments. Serving in Liberia, Africa, during Ebola; in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands during hurricanes Irma and Maria; and in Japan during early COVID-19 are favorites because of the team cohesion and meticulous execution in these high-stakes environments.”

Hope Rises

“What has surprised me most during my service is seeing society at its most vulnerable during disasters and emergencies, while also seeing the resourcefulness, resiliency, and ability of humanity to unite to overcome challenges.”

Service Impact

“As an environmental health officer, I hope my service aids the people in reaching their true potential by minimizing the impacts from injuries and illnesses. Serving is an opportunity to contribute to our nation by supporting the framework for functionality, stability, and resilience.”