Happy Veterans Day, CFB!

My name is Eric Holtzapple, and I currently serve as a Lieutenant Colonel on active duty in the United States Army. I have served for over 23 years and have been stationed here in Columbus for six years. Recently, I commanded the over 700 Soldiers of the 112th Engineer Battalion from 2018-2021 and served as a joint task force commander for several COVID response missions, including the mass vaccination mission in downtown Cleveland. I have served on two deployments, most recently in 2016-2017, serving as a commander in Afghanistan, earning a Bronze Star. Currently, I serve as a military construction management officer in Dublin, managing the planning, budgeting, maintenance, environmental, and design for over 1,200 military facilities. In addition to serving on active duty, I am also a student in the United States Army War College, working on my second master’s degree in military strategic studies with graduation in July 2024.

In 2020, the Army transitioned to a new Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT). The new test includes several events incorporating functional fitness, leading me to join CrossFit Bexley that same year. Since joining, my ACFT score has drastically improved, scoring an average of 90/100 on all six events just a few weeks ago. Most of all, I enjoy the people at CrossFit Bexley. The coaches and athletes have been very supportive as I navigate the challenges of being a beginner at CrossFit. This past year, I completed my first CrossFit Open, Murph, and set personal records each time we had a 1RM barbell movement. I still have much to improve, and I look forward to the challenge. As we celebrate Veterans Day, I’d like to thank my fellow Veterans and their families for their service to our great country. Your sacrifice and service to our nation allow us to enjoy our many freedoms; thank you and stay safe!