Vice Adm. James Pitts, a native of Milton, Florida, is a 1986 graduate from the U.S. Naval Academy with a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering.  Following his first sea tour, he attended the Naval Postgraduate School where he earned a Master’s degree in National Security Affairs.

At sea, his first submarine assignment was aboard USS Grayling (SSN 646).  Additionally, he was temporarily assigned to USS Plunger (SSN 595) for a Western Pacific deployment, where he qualified in submarines.  Follow-on assignments include: navigator on USS Hammerhead (SSN 663); combat systems officer on USS Hyman G. Rickover (SSN 709); and executive officer of USS Tucson (SSN 770).  His at-sea command assignments were as commanding officer of USS Tucson (SSN 770) and commander, Submarine Squadron Seven.

His shore and staff assignments include: Office of the Chief of Naval Operations, N87 Submarine Warfare Division; prospective executive officer instructor at Naval Submarine School; deputy commander for Submarine Squadron (SUBRON) Three; Program and Budget Branch chief on the Joint Staff; Strategic Studies Group CNO Fellow; Office of the Chief of Naval Operations, N8 Staff as the Planning, Programming & Development Branch head; executive assistant to N9; Undersea Warfighting Development Center, as Commander; and commander, Submarine Group Seven/Commander, Task Force 74/Commander, Task Force 54 in Yokosuka, Japan. Most recently, Pitts served as director, Warfare Integration, on the staff of the office of the Chief of Naval Operations. He assumed duties as the DCNO for Warfighting Requirements and Capabilities in December 2023.

VADM Pitts’ awards include the Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal, Navy Commendation Medal, Navy Achievement Medal, and various unit, campaign, and service awards.

Last Updated: 11 January 2024