Adm. James Kilby has stepped into his new role as the 43rd vice chief of Naval operations.
The transition was made during a ceremony at the Pentagon on Jan. 5, the Navy said on Friday.
“Adm. Kilby is an exceptional leader who is truly committed to our Sailors and meeting the needs of the Fleet,” said Adm. Lisa Franchetti, chief of Naval operations, who welcomed him into the position.
She highlighted Kilby’s “extensive operational experience” and “deep requirements and force development expertise,” which she said will “help accelerate change across the force.”
Kilby’s career with the Navy includes sea tours on the USS Sampson and USS Philippine Sea as well as two tours on the USS San Jacinto. He also commanded the USS Russell and received the Vice Adm. James B. Stockdale Award for his leadership. His major command was aboard the USS Monterey, including its 2011 maiden Ballistic Missile Defense deployment.
He also participated in shore tours at the Naval Postgraduate School; Chief of Naval Operations Surface Warfare Directorate, N96; Navy Personnel Command’s Surface Warfare Division, PERS-41; and the Missile Defense Agency’s Aegis BMD Program Office.
Prior to assuming his new position, Kilby served as deputy commander of the U.S. Fleet Forces Command in Norfolk, Virginia.
“I am honored and humbled to assume this position at such a critical time for our Navy and our nation,” Kilby said. “I am excited at the opportunity to support our CNO to ensure the Navy remains the most capable and powerful maritime force in the world.”