Beacon’s Amato Continues a 123-year Tradition

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Bryan Niegel, Navy Office of Community Outreach

PEARL HARBOR – Submariners make up only 10 percent of the U.S. Navy’s personnel, but they play a critical role in carrying out one of the Defense Department’s most important missions: strategic deterrence. Master Chief Petty Officer Anthony Amato, a native of Beacon, New York, is one of the sailors continuing a 123-year tradition of service under the sea to help ensure Americans’ safety.

Amato joined the Navy 22 years ago and today serves as a command master chief at Submarine Squadron One.

“I joined the Navy because it is a family tradition,” said Amato. “My great-grandfather, grandfather and father all served n the Navy.”

Growing up in Beacon, Amato attended Beacon High School and graduated in 2001.
Skills and values similar to those found in Beacon are similar to those required to succeed in the military.

“I have always remembered the grit, toughness and energy required to be successful in New York,” said Amato. “Nothing is ever given to you, so you have to grind for it.”

These lessons have helped Amato while serving in the Navy.

Known as America’s “Apex Predators!,” the Navy’s submarine force operates a large fleet of technically-advanced vessels. These submarines are capable of conducting rapid defensive and offensive operations around the world, in furtherance of U.S. national security.

There are three basic types of submarines: fast-attack submarines (SSN), ballistic-missile submarines (SSBN) and guided-missile submarines (SSGN).

Fast-attack submarines are designed to hunt down and destroy enemy submarines and surface ships; strike targets ashore with cruise missiles; carry and deliver Navy SEALs; conduct intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions; and engage in mine warfare. The Virginia-class SSN is the most advanced submarine in the world today. It combines stealth and payload capability to meet Combatant Commanders’ demands in this era of strategic competition.

The Navy’s ballistic-missile submarines, often referred to as “boomers,” serve as a strategic deterrent by providing an undetectable platform for submarine-launched ballistic missiles. SSBNs are designed specifically for stealth, extended patrols and the precise delivery of missiles. The Columbia-class SSBN will be the largest, most capable and most advanced submarine produced by the U.S. – replacing the current Ohio-class ballistic-missile submarines to ensure continuous sea-based strategic deterrence into the 2080s.

Guided-missile submarines provide the Navy with unprecedented strike and special operation mission capabilities from a stealthy, clandestine platform. Each SSGN is capable of carrying 154 Tomahawk cruise missiles, plus a complement of heavyweight torpedoes to be fired through four torpedo tubes.

“Our mission remains timeless – to provide our fellow citizens with nothing less than the very best Navy: fully combat ready at all times, focused on warfighting excellence, and committed to superior leadership at every single level,” said Adm. Mike Gilday, Chief of Naval Operations. “This is our calling. And I cannot imagine a calling more worthy.”

Strategic deterrence is the nation’s ultimate insurance program, according to Navy officials. As a member of the submarine force, Amato is part of a rich history of the U.S. Navy’s most versatile weapons platform, capable of taking the fight to the enemy in defense of America and its allies.

“We are the visual representation of freedom and support around the world,” said Amato.
With 90 percent of global commerce traveling by sea and access to the internet relying on the security of undersea fiber optic cables, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity of the United States is directly linked to trained sailors and a strong Navy.
Amato and the sailors they serve with have many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during their military service.

“My proudest moments are when sailors I have served with reach out to me after they have achieved a goal to thank me for the support for helping them achieve those goals,” said Amato.

As Amato and other sailors continue to train and perform missions, they take pride in serving their country in the United States Navy.

“Serving in the Navy means I’m able to motivate and lead the next generation of sailors,” said Amato. “One day I will retire, and I want my legacy to be based on the people I have led. I want to leave the Navy a better place than when I entered 22 years ago.”

Amato is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.

“I would like to thank my grandparents for the foundation that they provided me and my father for always pushing me to be better,” added Amato. “I would also like to thank my wife for supporting me throughout my Navy career.”