Lieutenant Colonel Chad Buckel is a native of Metairie, Louisiana. He graduated from The Citadel with a Bachelor of Arts in History, a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, and a minor degree in African American Studies. He completed Basic Training, Marine Corps Recruit Depot Paris Island in September 2002 and received his commission through the Platoon Leaders Course program in May 2005. He completed the Infantry Officers Course in March 2006.
LtCol Buckel’s assignments in the operating forces include: Rifle Platoon Commander, Weapons Platoon Commander, Battalion Assistant Operations Officer, Rifle Company Commander, Battalion Operations Officer, Regimental Assistant Operations Officer, and Chief of Plans at Marine Forces Command / Marine Forces Northern Command.
Other assignments include: Infantry Advisor to the Royal Saudi Marines and Naval Special Forces, Company Executive Officer and Company Commander at Edson Range, and Planner for a Joint/Combined J35 and J5 at NATO Special Operations HQ.
LtCol Buckel is a graduate of Recruit Training, Paris Island, Field Radio Operators course, The Basic School, Infantry Officers Course, EWS (non-Res), High Risk Personnel Training, Foreign Weapons Instructor, Basic Airborne Course, Maneuver Captains Career Course (MCCC), Joint Fires Officer course, MCMAP Instructor course, MCTOG, Mountain Operations staff planners’ course, Naval War College (non-Res), various NATO policy, strategy, and planning schools, the JPME II course, and the School of Advanced Military Studies (SAMS). He also has a Graduate Degree in International Affairs from New England College.
LtCol Buckel currently serves as a Deputy Director DC Scheduling, CAPSTONE.
LtCol Buckel’s personal awards include the Joint Service Commendation Medal, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal with gold star in lieu of second award, the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal with V and gold star in lieu of second award, and the Combat Action Ribbon with gold star in lieu of second award.
LtCol Buckel is married to Chantal Labrie of Quebec, Canada. They have three children.