Robert “Navy Bob” Roncska -- From the Nuclear Football to Nuclear Submarines

The Strategerist

During Dr. Robert Roncska’s impressive 28-year career in the Navy, he commanded a nuclear-powered submarine, led the largest submarine squadron in the U.S. fleet, and even carried the nuclear football for President George W. Bush, who affectionately named him “Navy Bob.”

Recently, he authored his debut book — Beyond the Sea: Leading with Love from the Nuclear Navy to the White House and Healthcare — in which he offers insights from his career and shares his own unique outlook, which blends military precision and execution with compassionate understanding.

Navy Bob joined host Andrew Kaufmann and the Bush Center’s Robert Favela to discuss his book, his experience carrying the nuclear codes, and his insights on how to lead with love.

Hear more from Navy Bob on this episode of The Strategerist, presented by the George W. Bush Presidential Center.

Related content:

• Beyond the Sea: Leading with Love from the Nuclear Navy to the White House and Healthcare