Chaplain Biography

Chaplain Wilkinson is 34 years old and the son of Larry and Wanda Wilkinson. He graduated from Western High School in Kokomo, Indiana in 1995.

He is a 1999 graduate of Harding University where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Bible. In 2001 he achieved a Master of Arts in Religion at Abilene Christian University. He then gained five years of full-time ministry working with churches in California and Oregon. In 2008 he completed a Master of Divinity at Abilene Christian University. Over the next two years, he ministered with a church in Texas and worked as a social worker with Big Brothers Big Sisters.

In November 2009 he received his commission as a Lieutenant Junior Grade in the United States Navy. On 31 March 2010, he graduated from Naval Chaplaincy School and Center after completing training at Officer Development School. He then reported to 1st Marine Division at Camp Pendleton in April 2010 and was assigned as Deputy Chaplain to 3D Assault Amphibian Battalion.

In February 2011 he was promoted to Lieutenant and reassigned to be the Battalion Chaplain for 1st Battalion, 4th Marines. Chaplain Wilkinson’s personal awards include the National Defense Service Medal and the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal.

Chaplain Wilkinson and his wife have been married for 9 years and they have two children.