First Sergeant Calvin Butts

ESCANABA — After more than two decades of courageous service, First Sergeant Calvin Butts retired from the United States Army, closing the chapter on a military career marked by extraordinary heroism, sacrifice, and leadership. Calvin held the rank of First Sergeant (E-8) for 47 months on three different Company Commands. He was chosen to serve the position in a Helicopter Unit, Headquarters Unit and was selected to establish the Army’s first Extended Range Sensing and Effects Company.

“I’m told there is less than a 10 percent chance to make it to First Sergeant in a career; most only get one chance to serve in the position but to serve the position at three different companies. I have never met another to have that honor,” he said.

1SG Butts, a 2005 graduate and native of Escanaba, is credited with saving hundreds of lives during three combat deployments to Afghanistan. Serving as a crew chief in the Medevac (Helicopter Ambulance). His swift decision making and bravery under fire earned him a Purple Heart, multiple Army Commendations with Valor and a Polish Army Medal, among many others.

“Every day I was on duty, I went to someone’s worst day and was the calm in the chaos. We couldn’t save them all but we sure gave all we could,” he said.

Besides his 37 months in Afghanistan, he was also sent to non-combat deployments to train soldiers in Romania, Bulgaria, Japan, and Philippines to strengthen our ties and interoperability.

Calvin is now in the process of returning to Escanaba and seeking local employment. He plans to spend time with his family and local friends, volunteer with veterans’ organizations and be a positive impact to the local community.

Calvin’s list of notable commendations include:

— Purple Heart for wounds sustained in combat

— two Meritorious Service Medals

— two Army Commendation with Valor

— four Army Commendations

— two Air Medal

— six Army Achievement Medals

— Polish Army Medal

— Humanitarian Service Medal

— Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal

— Master Aviation Badge

— Basic Space Badge