James Kilby

James Wells Kilby (born 1963) is a United States Navy admiral who served as the acting chief of naval operations in 2025, and as the vice chief of naval operations since 2024. He previously served as the deputy commander of the United States Fleet Forces Command from 2021 to 2024.

Early life and education Raised in Pound Ridge, New York, Kilby is a 1986 graduate of the United States Naval Academy. In July 2023, he was nominated for promotion to admiral and assignment as Vice Chief of Naval Operations.

Kilby assumed the duties of vice chief of naval operations on January 5, 2024.

In April 2025 he attended the Sea-Air-Space exposition hosted by the Navy League of the United States, where he met with the chief of staff of the Spanish Navy, in his capacity as the acting chief of naval operations. At the exposition he also said that the Navy will work on developing a more cost-efficient way of countering drones, after its experience during the Red Sea crisis. He remained as the acting chief until August 25, 2025, when Daryl Caudle was sworn in following his confirmation.

Awards and decorations

Surface Warfare Officer PinNavy Distinguished Service MedalDefense Superior Service MedalLegion of Merit with three gold award starsDefense Meritorious Service MedalMeritorious Service Medal with two gold award starsNavy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal with four award starsNavy and Marine Corps Achievement MedalJoint Meritorious Unit AwardNavy Unit CommendationNavy Meritorious Unit Commendation with two bronze service starCoast Guard Meritorious Unit Commendation with Operational Distinguishing DeviceBattle Effectiveness Award 4th awardsNational Defense Service Medal with service starArmed Forces Expeditionary MedalSouthwest Asia Service Medal with three bronze service starsGlobal War on Terrorism Service MedalArmed Forces Service MedalSea Service Deployment Ribbon with six service starsSpecial Operations Service RibbonKuwait Liberation Medal (Saudi Arabia)Kuwait Liberation Medal (Kuwait)Command at Sea insigniaOffice of the Secretary of Defense Identification Badge