Command Master Chief Joseph James was born and raised in Oregon. He graduated from Newberg High School in Newberg, Oregon, in 1997. He reported to Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, Illinois, in July 1997 and, upon completion of recruit training, attended Aviation Ordnanceman "A" School in Pensacola, Florida, graduating in November 1997.
His first assignment was aboard USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72), homeported in Everett, Washington, where he served in Weapons Department G-1 and G-4 and completed three successful deployments to the U.S. 5th and 7th Fleets. He then reported to Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Washington, where he served as a Motor Vehicle and Railcar Inspector supporting the safe movement of ammunition.
Master Chief James returned to USS Abraham Lincoln for two additional deployments before reporting to Navy Personnel Command (PERS-4013) in Millington, Tennessee, where he served as a Placement Coordinator and Rating Specialist. He subsequently transferred to Fleet Air Reconnaissance Squadron THREE (VQ-3), Strategic Communications Wing ONE, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, serving as the Line Chief Petty Officer. He later reported to USS Harry S. Truman (CVN-75), completing deployments to the Mediterranean Sea and the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations.
While assigned to Commander, Naval Air Forces Pacific (COMNAVAIRPAC), he supported the N46 Fleet Weapons Team and served on the staff of the Senior Enlisted Leader. During this tour, he was selected for the Command Master Chief Program. He subsequently served as the Command Senior Enlisted Leader for Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron ONE ONE SIX (VAW-116), completing deployments to the U.S. 4th and 7th Fleets. He then served as the Command Master Chief of 2nd Medical Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, headquartered at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina.
Command Master Chief James currently serves as the Command Master Chief for 2nd Marine Logistics Group, Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina.
Command Master Chief James is qualified as an Enlisted Fleet Marine Force Specialist, Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist, Enlisted Aviation Warfare Specialist, and Enlisted Information Dominance Warfare Specialist. He is a graduate of the Navy Senior Enlisted Academy and the Command Master Chief/Chief of the Boat Course. His personal awards include the Navy Meritorious Service Commendation (two awards), Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (6 awards), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (5 awards) and numerous campaign, unit, and service awards.