Specialist Sergio Robles wears more hats than just the camo cap of his California National Guard uniform. Going on his third year as Elk Grove city councilmember, Robles attributes his success, discipline, and values to his time in the Army National Guard.Just a few years ago, Robles was the youngest planning commissioner of Elk Grove at age 27. When the Covid-19 pandemic hit, he witnessed a sense of pride and honor at the veteran events he attended. District Director Matthew Ceccato, a veteran, encouraged Robles to join the Army National Guard, something Ceccato doesnโt recommend to everyone.
โI think you ought to join. Itโll make you a better person,โ Ceccato told Robles.
Through training across the country, Robles learned the values of the Guard that set him up for success.
โIt prepares you mentally to keep on going and keep pushing, no matter how tired you are, no matter if you want to give out, youโre always in the fight,โ he said.
A few months before his AIT graduation, Robles got a call from the mayor of Elk Grove and the incumbent city councilmember, who was seeking election in the state assembly, leaving a vacancy in the city council. They asked Robles if he would run for the seat.
Amid the transition back to civilian life, Robles assembled a team and fundraised $100,000 for his campaign in just two months. He won his election and knew he made the right decision.
Robles said his favorite thing about being on the city council is giving back. He works to support small businesses and promote economic development while being present in the community. Across Elk Grove, there are banners honoring those who have served in the military. Robles relishes not only seeing others remember their loved ones, but also being a part of the program and promoting the stories of Elk Groveโs veterans.
Robles joined EANGUS this year, and witnessed firsthand the benefits of membership in a short time. โThatโs the crazy part about it, and Iโve seen the transformation that weโve been able to do.โFrom legislative advocacy efforts to professional development and networking, Robles said EANGUS has been an amazing association that truly helps out our Enlisted service members.
โI truly, truly enjoy it, and I think every Soldier should become a part of EANGUS, especially not just when they need something.โ
Robles also stressed the importance of empowering the Junior Enlisted as the ones who can move the needle. From what heโs seen, the mentorship, events, and opportunities have shown him that everyone in EANGUS is in it to help the next Soldier.
