Courtesy of the U.S. Navy

Florida Atlantic University Libraries

Jewish Generals and Admirals in America's Military

A Judaica Collection Exhibit

Vice Admiral James A. Zimble:
30th Surgeon General of the
U.S. Navy
by Seymour “Sy” Brody

Vice Admiral James A. Zimble was the 30th Surgeon General of the United States Navy and the former President of the Uniformed Services University (USUHS).

Zimble was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He received a Bachelor’s degree from Franklin and Marshall College. He earned his Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine. He interned at the U.S. Naval Hospital at St. Albans, New York. He then went to the Naval Hospital at Camp Pendleton, California, where he completed his residency.

Prior to getting his flag rank in 1981, he was the Commanding Medical Officer of the Naval Regional Medical Center, Orlando, Florida; Medical Officer of the United States Marine Corps; Fleet Surgeon Commander-in-Chief, U.S. Atlantic Fleet. He was promoted to Vice Admiral and he became the 30th Surgeon General of the U.S. Navy , 1987 to 1991.

Vice Admiral Zimble, as Surgeon General, was responsible for U.S. Navy $4 billion healthcare programs with almost three million beneficiaries. He was an advisor on all medical matters which included improving morale, service, integrity and devotion to duty. He was involved with the medical care during the Gulf War.

In 1991, Vice Admiral Zimble retired from the Navy and he was selected to be the President of the Uniformed Services University. He elevated the University in stature, growth and receiving contributions. The University has become an outstanding center for academic military health care information, curriculum, education and training. He served as President from 1991 to 2004.

Vice Admiral James Zimble was named the Health Leader of the Year, 2005. He was presented with this award at a dinner on June 9, 2005, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He has received many other rewards and honors for his contributions to the U.S. Navy and the civilian population.

For additional information, contact
Special Collections and Archives
S.E. Wimberly Library

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