Brandon Stewart 10T

Judge Advocate General, United States Coast Guard

Brandon J. Stewart was recently commissioned as a Coast Guard JAG in January 2026. Previously, he served in Izmir, Turkey, supporting NATO’s Land Command Headquarters, where he advised global leaders, including a 4-star general, on moral and spiritual issues related to the Ukraine-Russia conflict. His work extended to providing guidance after the devastating earthquake in Turkey, supporting those affected by the disaster.

After earning his Master of Divinity from Emory University’s Candler School of Theology, Brandon served as an English youth pastor in South Korea, where he deepened his cultural insights and developed his passion for international service. Upon returning to the United States, he balanced law school, Air Force Chaplain Reserves, and pastoral duties, earning his law degree from the University of Dayton. He later served as Chief of Staff at Payne Theological Seminary in Wilberforce, Ohio, where he developed social justice programs before transitioning to active duty.

His global military career has included key roles in Germany, South Korea, Florida, and Turkey. Highlights include rebuilding the Tyndall Air Force Base community after Hurricane Michael, expanding chapel ministries in Ramstein, Germany, and addressing complex ethical challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic in South Korea. Brandon is also a licensed attorney in Tennessee and holds a Master of Arts in Political Science and International Relations from Izmir University of Economics.

Brandon’s  achievements have earned him numerous honors, including the National Bar Association’s 40 Under 40, Emory’s 40 Under 40, and the Candler School of Theology’s Distinguished Alumni Award. He serves as Executive Officer for the National Bar Association’s Veterans Affairs and Military Law Section and recently was selected for the Fall 2025 Candler School of Theology Alumni Board. A member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated, Brandon exemplifies faith, service, and leadership throughout his career, with a steadfast commitment to social justice and global impact.