Kamnach was a Denebian male in Starfleet in the 23rd century. He did not attend Starfleet Academy, but instead worked his way up through the enlisted and officer ranks, eventually reaching the rank of Captain. As of 2245, he commanded the USS Aldrin. At sometime prior to that date, Kamnach and the Aldrin engaged a Klingon vessel in Federation space, near Jeris II. A court-martial followed, and as a result, Kamnach left Starfleet with an early retirement, with honors. (TOS novel: Burning Dreams)