A native of Columbus, Ohio, Commander Kyle “Porkchop” Copeland is a 2008 graduate of The Ohio State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Aviation Management through the College of Engineering.

CDR Copeland reported to NAS Pensacola in January 2009 for flight training and was designated a Naval Aviator in June 2011. He then reported to STRIKE FIGHTER SQUADRON (VFA) 106 “Gladiators” at NAS Oceana for initial fleet training in the F/A-18C Hornet.

His operational assignments include tours with VFA-87 “Golden Warriors”, VFA-115 “Eagles” as part of the Forward Deployed Naval Forces Japan, and VFA-131 “Wildcats”. He has completed operational deployments aboard USS GEORGE H.W. BUSH (CVN 77), USS RONALD REAGAN (CVN-76), and USS DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER (CVN-69), in support of Operations ENDURING FREEDOM, INHERENT RESOLVE, FREEDOM’S SENTINEL, and various Western Pacific presence and contingency operations.

His shore assignments include AIR TEST AND EVALUATION SQUADRON (VX) NINE where he worked in the Special Projects and Tactics Department after completing the Strike Fighter Weapons School (TOPGUN) and U.S. European Command (USEUCOM) in the Joint Reconnaissance Center, managing Sensitive Reconnaissance Operations within the USEUCOM area of responsibility, and advocating for future intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance platforms, programs, and architecture on behalf of Commander, USEUCOM. CDR Copeland completed the Air Command and Staff College Joint Professional Military Education Program in September 2024.

CDR Copeland has accumulated over 2,400 flight hours in multiple operational and training aircraft including the T-34C, T-45C, and F/A-18A+/B/C/D/E/F. His awards and decorations reflect the accomplishments of the outstanding Sailors and teams that he has been privileged to serve with. He was honored to be selected by his peers for the 2020 Chief of Naval Air Forces Leadership Award during his Department Head tour.
 
CDR Copeland has been married to his wife, Lee Ann, since 2009. They have two sons, Weston (7) and Nolan (4).
 

Last Updated: 19 November 2025