Rear Adm. Kimberly Walz hails from Crownsville, Maryland, and is a 1992 graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in General Science. She also holds a Master of Arts in National Security and Strategic Studies and is a graduate of the Joint Forces Staff College.

Her naval career began with sea duty aboard the USS Sierra (AD 18), where she served as electrical officer. She then served aboard the USS Santa Barbara (AE 28) as main propulsion assistant, deploying to the Mediterranean Sea in support of logistics operations. Following that, she joined the USS Stump (DD 968) as fire control officer and assistant combat systems officer, participating in a deployment to the Arabian Gulf in support of Operation Northern Watch. She then transferred to shore completing a tour at Naval Surface Force Atlantic.

In 2000, Rear Adm. Walz transferred to the Navy Reserves. She was assigned to U.S. Joint Forces Command for Millennium Challenge 2002, followed by staff positions with Second Fleet Joint Force Air Component Unit and Strike Group Eight Unit. She also served as Reserve Chief of Staff for U.S. Pacific Fleet and Naval Surface Force Atlantic. Her operational experience expanded when she mobilized to Camp Lemonier in Djibouti as the Deputy Director of Security Force Assistance for Combined Joint Task Force Horn of Africa.

Throughout her career, Rear Adm. Walz held several key command positions, including commanding the Navy Reserve Navy Warfare Development Command in Norfolk, Virginia; the Military Sealift Command Expeditionary Port Unit 105 in Wilmington, Delaware; the Afloat Safety Culture Workshop Unit in support of Naval Surface Forces Atlantic in Norfolk, Virginia; and the Navy Reserve Commander Naval Forces Europe and Africa Operations Unit in Atlanta, Georgia, where her team played a critical role in supporting NATO and Sixth Fleet operations in Ukraine. She also served as Commodore of the Navy Reserve Littoral Combat Squadron One in San Diego, California.

As a Flag Officer, Rear Adm. Walz’s most recent tour was as Deputy Commander of Naval Surface Force Atlantic, overseeing more than 2,000 reserve sailors who supported the Surface Force. She has now assumed the role of Reserve Deputy Director of Maritime Operations at U.S. Fleet Forces Command, where she continues to contribute her leadership to the Navy's operational and strategic objectives.

Her personal awards and decorations include the Legion of Merit, Defense Meritorious Service Medals, Meritorious Service Medals, and various other personal, service, unit, and campaign awards. She is also a Joint Qualified Officer.

Last Updated: 4 March 2025