U.S. Representative Jeff Denham (R-Turlock) on Tuesday welcomed retired Staff Sgt. Peter Butler of Turlock as a Wounded Warrior Fellow in his Modesto office. Mr. Butler is a seven-year veteran of the United States Army, having served two tours in Afghanistan during Operation Enduring Freedom where he earned both a Bronze Star and a Purple Heart.

“The Central Valley has one of the largest communities of veterans in the nation and Pete will be a tremendous asset in advocating for the brave men and women who wore the cloth of this nation.” said Rep. Denham. “I admire Pete’s ambition in continuing to serve his country in a new capacity, thank him for his service and look forward to him joining our team.”

Butler will serve as Rep. Denham’s liaison with veterans and veteran groups, working to assist the nearly 63,000 veterans in Stanislaus and San Joaquin counties who have fought in every conflict since World War II.

“I’m honored to start working for Congressman Denham and hope to provide quality service to the people of California’s 10th District,” said Butler.

Butler retired from the U.S. Army in November 2014, having most recently been stationed at Fort Lewis, Wash. In addition to a Bronze Star and Purple Heart, Butler counts two Army Commendation Medals for Valor, three Army Commendation Medals, a Global War on Terrorism Medal and an Army Service Ribbon amongst his many accolades.

The Wounded Warrior Program through the House of Representatives provides two-year fellowships to veterans who have served on active duty since Sept. 11, 2001, have less than 20 years of military experience and have a 30-percent or greater service-connected disability rating. Butler is the third Wounded Warrior Fellow Rep. Denham has hosted since joining Congress in 2011.