LCDR Ryan E. Whitfield, CHC, USN

Chaplain's Center Operations

Chaplain Ryan E. Whitfield

Chaplain Whitfield is a native of LaGrange, Georgia. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in History and Political Science from Bucknell University, a Master of Arts in Pastoral Counseling from Liberty University, and a Master of Divinity and a Doctor of Ministry from Luther Rice College and Seminary. Chaplain Whitfield is endorsed for Military Chaplaincy by the Evangelical Church Alliance and ordained in the Missionary Baptist Church.

He began his military career enlisting in the United States Coast Guard in 2006. He was assigned to the USCGC Polar Sea (WAGB 11) and later served as an Electronics Technician at the USCG Surface Forces Logistics and C4IT Center in Curtis Bay, Maryland.

Commissioned in 2013, Chaplain Whitfield reported to Carrier Air Wing SEVEN in Virginia Beach, Virginia.  He embarked aboard the USS HARRY S. TRUMAN (CVN-75) and deployed to the 5th and 6th Fleet areas of operation in support of Operation Inherent Resolve.

In 2016, he reported to U.S. Coast Guard Training Center Cape May, New Jersey. In addition to caring for the Battalion’s 1,200 staff members and enlisted recruits, he served as Chair of the TRACEN Cape May Leadership and Diversity Advisory Council from 2016-2018.

In 2019, Chaplain Whitfield reported to Chemical Biological Incident Response Force (CBIRF FMFLANT) in Indian Head, Maryland. As Command Chaplain led RMT provision in support of CBIRF worldwide CBRN consequence management operations. 

Chaplain Whitfield reported to the United States Naval Academy in June 2021 where he currently serves as the N01 of Chaplain's Center Operations and Navy Football Chaplain.

LCDR Whitfield is a Fleet Marine Force Qualified Officer. His personal awards include the Navy Commendation Medal (gold star in lieu of 2nd award), Coast Guard Commendation Medal, and other campaign and service awards.