Colonel Carl Punzel, originally from Phoenix, Arizona, enlisted in 1996. He later graduated from the University of Arizona and was commissioned through the Marine Corps Enlisted Commissioning Program in 2000.  He assumed command of Marine Aviation Training Support Group 23 in July 2024.

As an Aviation Supply Officer, he has served in key billets with several Marine Aviation Logistics Squadrons, culminating in his service as the MALS-26 Commander in 2018-2020.

He has also completed assignments with Marine Corps Logistics Command and US Northern Command, and deployed in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom.

His previous assignment was as the Deputy Senior Special Assistant to the Supreme Allied Commander Europe / Commander, US European Command.

His resident education includes the Naval Postgraduate School, Marine Corps Command and Staff College, Joint Forces Staff College, and the NATO Defense College.