COLONEL JOHN CHAMNESS

John, originally from Seattle, Washington, is the son and grandson of Presbyterian pastors and missionaries. When introduced to The Army at the Seattle Temple Corps he was immediately drawn to The Army’s practical and lifetransforming ministry. In 2017 John completed a Master of Arts with a leadership focus from Indiana Wesley Seminary.

John and his wife Lani have served as Corps Officers and Divisional Officers in a variety of appointments throughout the Hawaiian and Pacific Islands Division, the Northwest Division, and the
Southern California Division. Highlights of their service include four years in the Marshall Islands pioneering the groundwork for the Army in Micronesia, six years leading the development of the Ray and Joan Kroc Corps Community Center in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Lieutenant Colonel John was then appointed as the Divisional Leader in Southern California overseeing the merging of two divisions and the significant growth in services to the homeless.

On  September 1, 2023, John was appointed as Chief Secretary  for the Canada and Bermuda Territory. 

John & Lani have been married for 33 years and have three adult children Lindsey, Mitchell, and Camille. Lani’s passions are writing music, playing her guitar, reading, and feeding the squirrels that show up at our door step each morning. John is an avid runner, loves hiking, woodworking, and just about anything to do with the outdoors.