CDR Zachary B. Martens

EXECUTIVE OFFICER, USS STERETT (DDG 104)

01 September 2025

Commander Zach Martens is a 2009 graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy with a Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science. He holds a Master of Science degree in Systems Engineering & Analysis from the Naval Postgraduate School (NPS). 

At sea, CDR Martens previously commanded USS PIONEER (MCM 9) after completing a tour as Executive Officer. During his tenure onboard, the PIONEER team earned the 2020 Battle “E”, Unit Tactics, and Marjorie Sterrett Battleship Fund Awards. As a Department Head, he served as the first Plans & Tactics Officer in USS PREBLE (DDG 88) receiving the 2018 COMDESRON 23 Junior Officer Excellence in Tactics Award. As a Division Officer, he served both tours in USS PRINCETON (CG 59) as Navigator, Assistant Operations Officer, Assistant Weapons Officer, and Strike Officer. 

Ashore, CDR Martens served as the Captain, Commander Command, Executive Officer, and post-Department Head Detailer at the Naval Personnel Command, PERS-41. He completed the Anti-Submarine/Anti-Surface Warfare Tactics Instructor (WTI) course of instruction in November 2017 with class 0417. 

In September 2025, Commander Martens reported as Executive Officer in USS STERETT (DDG 104), homeported in San Diego, CA. 

Personal awards include the Meritorious Service Medal (2), Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (2), Navy Achievement Medal, and multiple unit and service awards.