Anthony Watson (admiral) facts for kids

Rear Adm. Watson in 1995

Anthony John "Tony" Watson (born May 18, 1949) is a retired United States Navy officer. He served in the Navy for 31 years. He is famous for being the first African American submariner to become a rear admiral. He is also one of the "Centennial Seven." These are African-American sailors who commanded submarines in the 20th century. Watson grew up in Chicago and graduated from the Naval Academy in 1970. He commanded a nuclear submarine and served on five different submarines during his career.

Early Life and Education

Anthony Watson was born in Chicago, Illinois. He grew up in the Cabrini-Green community. He attended Lane Technical High School, graduating in 1966. After high school, he went to the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. At the Naval Academy, he was a strong leader. He was elected class president twice. He also became the first African American to reach the rank of Brigade Commander. This was a very high leadership position for a student.

Submarine Commander

Watson had an impressive career commanding submarines. He served on five different submarines. In December 1987, he became the second African-American naval officer to command a nuclear submarine. He was the Commanding Officer of the USS Jacksonville. This was a Los Angeles Class fast-attack nuclear submarine. While commanding the Jacksonville, he led an important test. It was the first time a submarine had done a live depth charge test at sea since 1963.

Leading Submarine Squadrons

From 1989 to 1992, Watson served as the Deputy Commandant of Midshipmen at the Naval Academy. This role involved helping to train future Navy officers. In 1992, he took command of Submarine Squadron Seven. This squadron was based in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. Under his command were 13 fast-attack nuclear submarines.

Leadership Roles

As a rear admiral, Anthony Watson worked at the Pentagon. This is the headquarters of the United States Department of Defense. He worked with General Colin Powell, who was then the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. After this important role, Watson became the Commander of the Navy Recruiting Command. In this job, he led a team of 6,000 people across the country. Their mission was to find and recruit new sailors for the Navy.

Military Awards

Rear Admiral Watson received many awards for his service. These awards show his dedication and bravery. His military awards include:

• The Defense Superior Service Medal
• The Legion of Merit
• Four Meritorious Service medals
• Three Navy Commendation Medals
• The Navy Achievement Medal

Personal Life

Anthony Watson is the son of John David Watson and Virginia Hortence (Smith) Watson. He married Sharon Gray (Shires) Waddell on July 21, 1984, in Norfolk, Virginia.