Col. Jeffrey Thomas is the new commander of the Wisconsin Wing after assuming the post during a change of command ceremony at the 2025 wing conference.
The April 5 event in Wisconsin Dells marked the transition of command from Col. Patrick Gaylord, who had led the wing since April 2022. Col. Rose Hunt, CAP national executive officer and a former Wisconsin Wing and Great Lakes Region commander, officiated.
Thomas brings more than two decades of Civil Air Patrol leadership experience to the role, having served as the wing’s Southwest Group commander, chief of staff, inspector general, and director of cadet programs.
He has also served as deputy for operations for the CAP National Cyber Mission Team, enhancing secure mission capabilities across CAP’s digital infrastructure.
Outside CAP, Thomas has advised several academic institutions in Wisconsin, contributing to information technology and computer science programs with the Universities of Wisconsin and Edgewood College.
During the ceremony, the new commander expressed his vision for continued growth, development, and member engagement.
“We will support this wing’s members with a focus on continuing our tradition of excellence,” he said. “And while we do this, we’ll ensure there are opportunities to learn, grow, and have some fun along the way.”
As he concluded his three-year term, Gaylord reflected on wing members’ impact.
“Across the Wisconsin Wing, I saw squadrons working hard, engaging in the community, making CAP visible, and inspiring others to join,” he said.
“Your dedication paid off,” he told those present, “and we saw steady, meaningful growth.”_____1st Lt. Jessica SchaeferAssistant Public Affairs OfficerWisconsin Wing
