Two Maryland Wing Members Appointed to the Chaplain Corps
The Maryland Wing is thrilled to welcome a new chaplain and a new character development instructor to the esteemed Chaplain Corps.
Chaplain (Capt.) Chaplain Cooper
Wicomico Composite Squadron member Chaplain Cooper, whose first name is aptly Chaplain, has been appointed a Civil Air Patrol (CAP) Captain-grade chaplain. CAP chaplains provide ministry of presence for all kinds of CAP events, from weekly squadron meetings and religious services at events to emotional and spiritual support on a search and rescue mission base.
Chaplain Cooper's journey with the CAP began in January 2024, a path he believes was divinely guided. Cooper's service extends to the hospital and fire service chaplain roles, and he holds leadership positions in various fire service and chaplain organizations.
His academic background is extensive, with undergraduate studies in psychology and social work and two degrees from Salisbury University. His graduate seminary journey led him to a Master of Divinity in Professional Chaplaincy from Liberty University, where he is pursuing doctoral studies in community care and counseling.
His qualifications are not limited to academia. He is board-certified as a chaplain by multiple prestigious organizations, including the National Association of Veterans Affairs Chaplains, the Association of Certified Christian Chaplains, the College of Pastoral Supervision and Psychotherapy, and the Spiritual Care Association. He is also a clinical pastoral education supervisor, demonstrating his commitment to his profession.
2nd. Lt. Courtney Tompkins
Colonel Mary S. Feik Composite Squadron member 2nd Lt. Courtney Tompkins has been appointed a Character Development Instructor (CDI) in the Civil Air Patrol Chaplain Corps. CDIs receive special training to facilitate monthly cadet character development sessions and the senior core values instruction. CDIs also assist the Chaplain Corps by providing administrative support, mentoring, and other duties that may be assigned in a unit.
2nd Lt. Tompkins began her CAP career in November 2022 and has served as a squadron public affairs officer and shadowed her commander in character development. She is the spouse of an active-duty U.S. Air Force officer and, with eighteen years as a military spouse, is trained as an Air Force Key Spouse as part of the family support and readiness program. She has received resiliency training and supports families with deployment and separation concerns as a spouse.
She leads a group of 10th-grade girls in community service with the Bay Area Community Church in Annapolis. As the squadron's new character development instructor, she looks forward to serving as a mentor and role model for character, moral leadership, wellness, and resiliency.
