Master Chief Christopher Brittingham, originally from Everett, Washington, enlisted in the Coast Guard in August 2004. After graduating from Operations Specialist "A" School in 2005, he began a distinguished operational career.
His early assignments included serving aboard the CGC Legare and Sector Puget Sound at the Vessel Traffic Center (VTS). Following VTS he was forward deployed to Manama, Bahrain on CGC Maui supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Following the Maui, he transferred to the CGC Rush before returning to Bahrain to serve on the CGC Aquidneck.
Master Chief Brittingham's subsequent leadership tours include serving as a plankowner and Combat Information Center Supervisor for the CGC James, as well as the inaugural Command Senior Enlisted Leader (CSEL) for the CGC Calhoun. He also completed a tour at Maritime Safety and Security Team Kings Bay in the future operations division.
Upon advancing to Master Chief in 2023, he assumed the role of Command Center Supervisor and unit CSEL at District Arctic. In 2025, he transferred to Training Center Petaluma as the School Chief and he has been serving as the acting Command Master Chief since February 2026.
As the Silver Ancient Mariner for the OS rating, he proudly wears a Cuttermen insignia and the Response Operation Ashore insignia. His personal awards include five Coast Guard Commendation Medals, three Coast Guard Achievement Medals, and four Letters of Commendation. As well as numerous various expeditionary, campaign, and humanitarian medals.
He is currently pursuing a bachelor's degree in management with a focus on leadership and is a member of the National Society of Leadership and Success. Master Chief Brittingham has been married to his wife, Mackenzie “Mack,” for 19 years. They rescued a cat named Sherman and enjoy motorcycle riding, fishing, and camping in their overland camper.