LtCol Stophel graduated from East Tennessee State University in 2001 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice and Criminology and has a Masters degree in Military Studies from Marine Corps University. Prior to commissioning, he was an enlisted Marine in the Ordnance occupation field. He was commissioned a second lieutenant in April 1996 following completion of Officer Candidate School (OCS).

Operational tours include: Motor Transport Officer, S4a, and S4, 3d Battalion, 8th Marines (1997-1998). Motor Transport Officer and S4a, 2d Amphibian Assault Battalion (1998-1999). Motor Transport Officer, II Marine Expeditionary Force (G-4) (2001-2002), Brigade Motor Transport Officer, 2d Marine Expeditionary Brigade (Task Force Tarawa) (2003). Commanding Officer, Forward Maintenance Company Alpha (Motor Transport Maintenance Co) (2003-2004), Operations Officer, 2d Maintenance Battalion (2004-2005), Executive Officer, Combat Logistics Battalion 6 (2009-2010), Operations Officer, Executive Officer, Combat Logistics Regiment 2 (2010-2012), G3

Future Operations Officer, 3d Marine Logistics Group (2012–2013).

Other tours have included Faculty Advisor and Logistics Combat Element Occupation Field Expansion Course Program Director, Expeditionary Warfare School (2005-2008).

LtCol Stophel is a graduate of Officer Candidate School, The Basic School, Motor Transport Officer’s Course, Expeditionary Warfare School (Distance Education Program) and the Marine Command and Staff College.

LtCol Stophel’s personal decorations include the Bronze Star, Meritorious Service medal with 1 Gold Star, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal with 2 Gold Stars, Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal, and the Combat Action Ribbon.