Lt. Col. Russ W. Forkin commissioned in May 2001 as a Second Lt. in military intelligence, branch detailed infantry. Forkin initially served as a Platoon Leader in 1st Battalion, 9th Infantry Regiment (Manchu) and as Executive Officer, Long Range Surveillance Detachment (Airborne), 2nd Infantry Division located at Camp Hovey, Republic of Korea.
In 2006, Forkin completed the Special Forces Qualification Course and was assigned to 3rd Special Forces Group (Airborne) where he commanded two Operational Detachment- Alphas, served as Company Executive Officer, and led the Group’s Sensitive Activities Cell. After his time with 3rd Special Forces Group (Airborne), Forkin commanded two Companies and served as Battalion Operations Officer in 1st Special Forces Group (Airborne). He then served in the National Capital Region before returning to Ft. Bragg, NC, where he served as G37-Chief of Training, 1st Special Forces Command (Airborne) before taking command of the Golden Knights, the U.S. Army's Parachute Team.
Forkin has commanded and led soldiers in combat during multiple deployments in support of Operations Enduring Freedom, Iraqi Freedom, Enduring Freedom – Pacific, Inherent Resolve, and Freedom’s Sentinel.
His awards and decorations include the Bronze Star (2 OLC), Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal (1 OLC), Army Commendation Medal, Joint Service Achievement Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Expert Infantryman Badge, Combat Infantryman Badge, Special Forces Tab, Ranger Tab, Military Free Fall Parachutist Badge, Air Assault Badge, and Parachutist badge.
He is a graduate of Indiana University of Pennsylvania, U.S. Army Command and General Staff College, and Kansas University.
Forkin is married to the former Lisa Albrecht of Pittsburgh, PA, and they have two children.