Thursday, January 8, 2026

American Canyon native serves at Afloat Training Group San Diego

By Navy Office of Community Outreach

SAN DIEGO - Chief Petty Officer Robert Bienkowski, a native of American Canyon, California, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Afloat Training Group (ATG) San Diego, California.
Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Joey Sitter,
Navy Public Affairs Support Element West

Bienkowski graduated from American Canyon High School in 2008.

The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in American Canyon.

“I learned growing up that anything is possible if you put your mind to it and put in the work to help you succeed,” Bienkowski said.

Bienkowski joined the Navy 16 years ago. Today, Bienkowski serves as an operations specialist.

“My uncles were in the military, and my grandfather was a retired Navy master chief,” Bienkowski said. “Also, I decided to join the military instead of going to college.”

ATG San Diego plays a crucial role in maintaining a highly trained and prepared naval force, contributing to the US Navy's ability to respond to various threats and carry out diverse missions. ATG San Diego's role extends to evaluating and certifying all Pacific Fleet ships to ensure they meet the evolving standards required for naval and joint combat operations.

Bienkowski has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.

“Earning the rank of chief petty officer is my proudest accomplishment,” Bienkowski said. “I originally planned to get out of the Navy after my initial four years, but I stuck with it, and I’m glad I did.”

Bienkowski serves a Navy that operates far forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation’s prosperity and security.

“Serving in the Navy offers a great deal of pride,” Bienkowski said. “Not everyone is able to serve in the military. Also, I feel like I’m following in my family’s footsteps of military service, but I’m doing it my way.”

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

“I would like to thank my parents, my three brothers and my son for holding down the fort,” Bienkowski said.

This year, the Navy is commemorating its contribution to the nation’s defense as the United States celebrates 250 years of independence.

According to Navy officials, for more than 250 years, the Navy has sailed the globe defending freedom and protecting prosperity.

More information is available here: https://www.navy.mil/navy-250/