A Life of Service and Precision: CW4 Andy T. Knote’s Journey in the U.S. Army Reserve

Story by Sgt. 1st Class Mark J. Korte, Office of the Chief of Army Reserve

Chief Warrant Officer 4 Andy T. Knote, a Warrant Officer Career Management Officer stationed at Fort Knox, KY, embodies the dedication, technical expertise, and leadership that define the U.S. Army Reserve. Over three decades of service, Knote’s career demonstrates a commitment to both military excellence and personal passions.

A Career Spanning Over Three Decades

Knote’s journey began with his enlistment in 1991. From roles such as Network Operations Warrant to Joint Systems Manager, his career is marked by technical mastery, supported by his Master of Science in Cybersecurity Policy and advanced certifications, including Cisco Certified Network Security Professional. His passion for problem-solving and leadership led him to pursue the Warrant Officer path, a route he now advocates for Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs) who excel in technical fields.

A Passion for Marksmanship

Beyond the technical sphere, Knote has found a calling in competitive marksmanship. As a member of the U.S. Army Reserve Competitive Marksmanship Program, he competes and mentors soldiers and civilians. His volunteer work with the USA Shooting youth program highlights his commitment to nurturing the next generation of marksmen.

“Patience, discipline, and staying calm under pressure are essential traits,” says Knote, who teaches these skills to prepare mentees for both competition and combat.

Integrating Military and Personal Life

When he’s not donning the Army uniform, Knote’s personal life reflects his love for the outdoors. Along with his wife, Ana, a retired USAR officer, he enjoys traveling, hiking, kayaking, and tending to their garden and chickens. Their son, Thomas, a high school counselor and head wrestling coach in New Jersey, continues the family’s tradition of service and leadership.

“The hardest thing to overcome is our own egos,” he says. Knote’s leadership approach is influenced by both his technical expertise and his competitive shooting experience. Whether mentoring future Warrant Officers or coaching soldiers in marksmanship, Knote emphasizes the importance of being open to learning and improvement.

Marksmanship Program: A Platform for Growth

“Attitude, aptitude, availability, and ability are the four A’s we look for,” he explains, emphasizing that soldiers must excel both on and off the range. As a key figure in the U.S. Army Reserve Marksmanship Program, Knote highlights the discipline and dedication required to succeed in this field. The program trains soldiers in various shooting styles, from service pistols to action shooting. Knote encourages soldiers interested in the program to set aside their ego, seek out competitions, and commit to honing their craft.

Mentoring Future Warrant Officers

Reflecting on his extensive career, Knote takes pride in the soldiers he has mentored, particularly those he recommended for Warrant Officer positions.

“There’s no greater satisfaction than coaching, teaching, and mentoring soldiers to become Warrant Officers,” he says. His dedication to helping others succeed extends to his role as a Warrant Officer Career Management Officer, where he works to ensure the career development of his peers.

Looking Ahead: Goals for the Future

As Knote continues his service, he aims to contribute further to the Army Reserve at higher echelons, whether through mentoring or supporting leadership in the Signal Corps.

His philosophy, rooted in marksmanship, guides his future goals: “As long as I maintain a steady position, control my breathing, keep my sights aligned, and move the trigger with smooth, deliberate pressure, I’ll always hit my target.”

Knote’s career is a testament to the power of perseverance, leadership, and a passion for both personal and professional growth. His journey continues to inspire those around him, from Soldiers in the U.S. Army Reserve to the youth he mentors in marksmanship programs.