CDR Alexander (AJ) Franz graduated from Kenyon College in 2004 with a Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics and Physics. He joined the Navy in 2003 through the Nuclear Propulsion Officer Candidate Program and received his commission from Officer Candidate School in 2005. He also holds a Master's degree in Leadership, Education, and Development from the University of Maryland.

His sea tours include Engineering and Weapons Division Officer assignments on USS OHIO (B) (SSGN 726), Engineer Officer on USS TUCSON (SSN 770), Engineer Officer on USS JACKSONVILLE (SSN 699), and Executive Officer on USS HAMPTON (SSN 767). His sea tours include five deployments to the Western Pacific.

Ashore, CDR Franz served as 16th Company Officer at the US Naval Academy, Engineer Officer at Commander, Submarine Squadron ELEVEN, and Deputy Executive Assistant to Commander, THIRD Fleet.

His personal decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal (two awards), Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (six awards), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (three awards), and various unit awards. He is authorized to wear the Deep Submergence Insignia.