Staff Sergeant, Logan Tompkins
University of Idaho senior and Marine Corps Staff Sergeant Logan Tompkins of Rapid City, South Dakota, is a testament to the transformative power of the Marine Corps and the pursuit of higher education. With a B.A. in English, focusing on both literature and creative writing, Logan's journey from a young adult working a dead-end job to a Marine pursuing a commission is a story of resilience and a deep love for the Marine Corps.
Logan's path to the Marines wasn't forged from a military family background or a clear understanding of the service. Instead, it was a calling—a yearning for purpose, camaraderie and pride missing in his life before he enlisted. The Marine Corps offered a career and a chance to discover and cultivate these values, turning out to be the best decision of his life.
The decision to pursue a commission came naturally to Logan, driven by his love for the Marines. During a deployment supporting the Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa, a chance encounter and encouraging words from a Marine Captain set him on the path to apply for the Marine Enlisted Commissioning Education Program (MECEP). For Logan, officership is not just about intelligence but humility, selflessness, confidence and, most importantly, good leadership. His time at college has been a continuous journey of understanding and embodying these qualities as he passionately embraces his future role as an officer.
Logan's choice of major reflects his interests and unexpectedly complements his military career. His passion for reading and writing, coupled with the supportive faculty at the University of Idaho, has enhanced his understanding of Marine Corps publications, doctrine and the broader aspects of warfare. Through directed studies and tailored courses, Logan has immersed himself in warfighting theory and geopolitical conflicts, equipping himself for the challenges and responsibilities of a Marine officer.
Choosing U of I was a leap into the unknown for Logan, driven by a desire for open spaces and a break from the bustling life of Northern Virginia. He found a place for self-discovery, contemplation and intellectual growth. The university's setting provided Logan with a scenic backdrop to ponder the 21st-century challenges of warfare and leadership, all while embracing his love for backpacking and the vast wilderness Idaho has to offer.
Logan's love for the outdoors manifests in his passion for backpacking. His adventures in the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness and surrounding areas have been a source of solace and reflection, allowing him to connect with nature and find peace amidst the rigors of military life and academic pursuits.
U of I has taught Logan to think critically, question the status quo and delve deeper into literature and life's unsaid and persuasive aspects. It has attuned him to the pressing issues facing the Marine Corps, helping him ponder the challenges his generation of officers will face in potential future conflicts. Despite the uncertainty of the times, Logan finds reassurance in the strength and potential of his fellow NROTC Battalion members, confident in their ability to thrive and lead in an ever-changing world.
Article by CPT Amish Smith.
Photos submitted by Logan Tompkins and used with permission.
Published November 2023.