My Why: Shon Neyland

Shon Neyland is a Licensed Professional Counselor, serving in the field since 2008. Shon has a diverse background, rising in the ranks of the military to senior executive leadership positions during a 35-year career, retiring as a Colonel in the US Air Force in 2019. Shon began as an enlisted Airman in the military in 1984 as a Logistic Management Specialist. He was commissioned as an officer in 1991. Upon commissioning, Shon served as a Nuclear Missile Launch Operator and in Space Operations until the summer of 1999. He became an Air Force Chaplain in the fall of 1999. As a Chaplain for the last 20 years of his career, he held various positions, including as the Deputy Commandant for the Chaplain Corps College, Chaplain Corps Deputy Chief of Plans and Programs in the Pentagon, and Command Chaplain two times. While in the military, Shon was a part of three( 3) major wars, the Gulf War, Iraqi Freedom, and Enduring Freedom. He served on the front lines as a chaplain in two (2) wars, including in Bagdad, Iraq and Kandahar, Afghanistan, caring for the warfighter in real-time. He has always had a passion to serve those who sacrifice all for freedom of our nation. A true patriot, Shon dedicated himself to building resiliency and promoting a “can do” attitude. As a licensed counselor, he has literally counseled thousands of warriors and their families, providing hope and fortitude through service. Shon is also a motivational and inspirational speaker who has spoken around the globe. He has authored five (5) books including, “Faith in Times Like These,” “Loving When You Don’t Feel Like It,” “Devotions from the Desert,” and the “The Courage to Stand: A New America.” Shon has earned seven (7) degrees including an Associates of Science degree in Logistics Management, a Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial Technology, a Master of Arts in Religion Degree, a Master of Divinity degree (equivalency), a Master of Science degree in Community Counseling, a Master of Science degree in National Security and Strategy, and a Doctor of Ministry degree in Leadership and Evangelism. Shon is married to his wife, Madeline, for over 40 years and they have three (3) adult children, and one (1) grandchild.

My Why: