Leonard J. Kosinski

Lieutenant General Leonard J. Kosinski, a distinguished retired officer of the United States Air Force, is currently a Senior Defense Associate at the Samuel Group in Washington D.C. General Kosinski offers seasoned leadership and strategic insights to the US Department of Defense at the Samuel Group. With his extensive professional network, he provides strategic counsel and guidance to companies and clients within the defense and national security sectors.

General Kosinski’s military career commenced in 1993 upon his commissioning from the U.S. Air Force Academy with a Bachelor of Science in Operations Research. His career spans over three decades of dedicated service, marked by key operational assignments including pilot roles in aircraft such as the KC-135 Stratotanker, C-5 Galaxy, and C-17 Globemaster III, accumulating over 3,300 flight hours.

His educational background is impressive, holding multiple advanced degrees, including a Master of Science in Industrial Engineering, a Master of Business Administration focusing on International Corporate Strategy, and a Master of Arts in International Relations from The Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy. He has also earned distinguished graduate honors at both the Defense Language Institute and numerous military education programs such as Squadron Officer School and an exclusive Defense Fellowship for Air War College.

Throughout his career, General Kosinski has been at the helm of several critical roles, including Director for Logistics on the Joint Staff at the Pentagon, where he was pivotal in integrating logistics planning and execution to support global military operations. His leadership was instrumental while serving as Deputy Commander of the Fifth Air Force and Director of the Joint Air Component Coordination Element in Japan, among other positions.

General Kosinski’s contributions to international military cooperation are highlighted by his participation in significant operations such as Southern Watch, Allied Force, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom. His achievements have been recognized through numerous awards, including the Defense Distinguished Service Medal and Defense Superior Service Medal. His international service and leadership have been further acknowledged with prestigious accolades like the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Neck Ribbon, for his contributions to U.S.-Japan relations. General Kosinski also speaks fluent Japanese.