A native of Midland, Michigan, spending a part of her childhood in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Chaplain Bonny Shirk earned bachelor’s degrees in Music and Secondary Social Studies Education from the University of Michigan. She later earned a Master of Divinity from Liberty University.
Before entering active duty, Shirk taught private music lessons, music and theater at private schools, and history and government at public schools. She also spent decades playing violin and piano, all while serving in ministry for 22 years as a youth pastor, associate pastor, and minister of music, including 11 years serving with the Religious Ministry Team at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina.
Today, Shirk serves as the command chaplain for Naval Support Activity Maine, providing ministry and support across a diverse area of responsibility that includes Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, USS Constitution, Bath Iron Works, Navy Talent Acquisition Group New England, Prospect Harbor, Cutler, and Navy Reserve Centers throughout Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Massachusetts.
“My goal is simple,” said Shirk. “I want every service member and their families to know they have someone who genuinely cares about them. I want them to know they can talk to me about anything without fear of judgment.”
Looking ahead, Shirk hopes to continue expanding morale, welfare, and recreational opportunities throughout her area of responsibility. She wants to ensure every Sailor, Marine, Coast Guardsman, reservist, civilian employee, and family member has access to the care, support, and resources they need to thrive.
“It is an incredible privilege to care for those who have volunteered to serve our nation. If, through my ministry, even one Sailor, Marine, Coast Guardsman, or family member feels seen, heard, and supported during a difficult season, and that makes a positive difference in their lives, then I know I’ve fulfilled my calling.”