Rear Adm. James Aiken is a native of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He was commissioned through the Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC) at Pennsylvania State University with a degree in political science. He also earned a master’s degree in strategic studies from the Naval War College.
As a surface warfare officer, he commanded USS Chung-Hoon (DDG 93) and Destroyer Squadron 60/Task Force 65.
His assignments at sea include service aboard USS Monongahela (AO(J) 178), USS Virginia (CGN-38), Commander, Carrier Group Two (John F. Kennedy) battle group, USS Decatur (DDG 73), USS Normandy (CG 60) and USS Hopper (DDG 70).
Ashore he served as a manpower specialist/detailer at Navy Surface Warfare Manpower Headquarters, Pers 41; deputy executive assistant/administrative aide to the Secretary of the Navy; liaison to the U.S. Senate for the Secretary of Defense; and naval aide and executive assistant to the Assistant Secretary of the Navy, Financial Management and Comptroller.