At age 43, LTC Marlon U. Elbelau of the 418th Contracting Support Brigade in Fort Hood, Texas was promoted from Major to Lieutenant Colonel on December 19, 2018.
LTC Marlon Elbelau is a native of the Republic of Palau with over 17 years of active military service, 4 years in the US Air Force and over 13 years in the US Army. He was born in Medford, Massachusetts but grew up in Palau. After graduating from Palau High School, he spent a year at the University of Guam before transferring to Lassen Community College in Susanville, California.
After graduating from Lassen Community College, LTC Elbelau continued his educational pursuits at San Jose State University, San Jose, CA. It was at this time that he decided to join the US Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps program at San Jose State University. LTC Elbelau also became the first Palauan Cadet Wing Commander while attending the San Jose State University ROTC program. LTC Elbelau graduated from San Jose State University with two Bachelor Degrees and an area studies Minor and holds a graduate degree in Business Administration.
LTC Elbelau has is a decorated US Army field-grade officer who has been awarded the Bronze Star, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Joint Meritorious Unit Award, Meritorious Unit Citation, Navy Unit Commendation, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, Air Force Expeditionary Service Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Korea Defense Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Army Overseas Service Ribbon, Air Force Longevity Service Ribbon, Air Force Training Ribbon, Air Force Overseas Service Ribbon – Short Tour, NATO Service Medal, and a Parachutist Badge.
LTC Elbelau is the son of Mr. Takkon Chin and Mrs. Ruthie Chin of Peleliu. He is married to Rhea Franz-Elbelau of Ngkeklau, Ngaraard and they have two sons- Maverick and TC.