In June 2010, Amos was recommended Secretary of Defense Robert Gates for nomination as the 35th Commandant of the Marine Corps. Amos was nominated by President Barack Obama on July 20, who interviewed him for the job on June 17. and confirmed by the Senate Armed Services Committee on September 21, and confirmed shortly thereafter.
In June 2010, Amos was recommended for appointment as the 35th Commandant of the Marine Corps by Secretary of Defense Robert Gates. President Barack Obama nominated him on July 20, who interviewed him on June 17, and the Senate Armed Services Committee confirmed his nomination on September 21, followed by a confirmation from the full Senate.