A native of Ann Arbor, Michigan, Lieutenant Kathleen M. Barrios graduated from the United States Naval Academy with a Bachelor of Science in Quantitative Economics and commissioned as a Surface Warfare Officer on 25 May 2018.

In September 2018, she reported to her first command USS ESSEX (LHD 2) homeported in San Diego, California. She served as the Deck Division Officer, Navigation Division Officer, Public Affairs Officer and Visual Information Officer. During her tour, she completed a deployment to Fifth and Seventh Fleet.

In July 2021, she reported to USS FORREST SHERMAN (DDG 98), homeported in Norfolk, Virginia, where she served as the Fire Control Officer, Public Affairs Officer and Visual Information Officer. During her tour, she completed a surge deployment to Sixth Fleet in support of EUCOM’s Request for Forces. In August 2022, she was selected during the Lateral Transfer and Redesignation Board as a Public Affairs Officer. From June to December 2022, FORREST SHERMAN deployed serving as the flagship for Standing NATO Maritime Group Two (SNMG2) in Sixth Fleet.

She is currently assigned as a Public Affairs Action Officer at Navy Public Affairs Support Element – East in Norfolk, VA.

LT Barrios’ personal awards include the Admiral Zumwalt Award for Visionary Leadership, the CAPT Raymond Komorowski Photography Award, Navy Commendation Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (2 awards) and various unit awards.

She is married to LT Garrett Barrios who serves as the Officer-in-Charge for Damage Control Assistant and Senior Enlisted (DCASE) in Norfolk, VA.