CMDCM James H. Butler

COMMAND MASTER CHIEF, USS SOMERSET (LPD 25)

25 September 2024 A native of Hebron, Maryland, Master Chief Butler began his naval career in December 1988 through the Delayed Entry Program.  In 1989 he graduated from Mardela High School, completed Basic and Apprenticeship Training in Great Lakes, Illinois. 
 
In 1990, he completed Gunners Mate “A” school, reported to USS Fort McHenry (LSD 43) deployed in the Middle East.  After a tour of duty with Shore Intermediate Maintenance Activity in the Weapons Maintenance Shop, he completed 5” 54 Gun Mount “C” school, reported to USS Valley Forge (CG 50), and deployed twice (counter-narcotic operations and the middle east).  

In 1998, he transitioned to the Navy Reserve and completed assignments with Inshore Boat Unit 17 (two operational deployments to Guam and Kuwait), Construction Battalion Maintenance Unit 303, 30th Naval Construction Regiment (one operational deployment to Iraq), Maritime Civil Affairs Squadron ONE, U.S. Navy Senior Enlisted Academy, and Cargo Afloat Rig Team 3.

Master Chief Butler was selected in 2010 to the rank of Master Chief Petty Officer.  His Command Master Chief tours include Cargo Handling Battalion 14 (one operational deployment to Afghanistan), Coastal Riverine Squadron 1, Defense Logistics Agency; Joint Reserve Force, Naval Surface Force Atlantic (Reserve Enterprise), USS John Finn (DDG 113); Forward Deployed Naval Forces-Japan (three 7th Fleet patrols) and Naval Surface Force Pacific (Reserve Enterprise).  

Master Chief Butler is currently serving and the Command Master Chief for USS Somerset (LPD 25). 

Master Chief Butler is an Honor graduate of the United States Navy Senior Enlisted Academy (NR-12; Gold), Command Leadership Course (CMC/COB), National Defense University’s Keystone Course (19-01), Advanced Command Master Chief Course (24-09), and has earned a bachelor’s degree from National University. 
 
Master Chief Butler is a Tactical Craft Patrol Leader and holds enlisted warfare qualifications in Surface, Information, Expeditionary, Seabee Combat, and Fleet Marine Forces.

His decorations include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal (3rd award), Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (3rd award), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (8th award), Combat Action Ribbon, and various other campaign, unit, and personal awards.