Strengthening Partnerships and Advocacy for California’s Enlisted Force
The 2025 CAL EANGUS State Conference brought together enlisted leaders, advocates, and members from across California for a productive and inspiring weekend focused on collaboration, communication, and continued commitment to our Guard community.
We were honored to hear from State Command Chief Seth Zweben and 40th Infantry Division Command Sergeant Major Refugio Rosas, who shared valuable updates on issues currently impacting our California Guard members. Their open dialogue with attendees highlighted opportunities for CAL EANGUS and the CAL GUARD to strengthen our partnership and continue advocating together for the benefit of all Guardsmen across the state.
Area VII Director SMSgt (Ret) Grant Roper provided an update from the EANGUS National Office, reaffirming his dedication to supporting CAL EANGUS and advancing the mission of advocacy and engagement at both the state and national levels.
Our guest speaker, Fred Green, Chair of the California State Commanders Veterans Council (CSCVC), discussed recent legislative victories, upcoming priorities, and thanked CAL EANGUS for serving as the sole sponsor of the All Vets Day at the Capitol. That event brought together nearly 50 representatives from Military and Veterans Service Organizations statewide to advocate on key veteran-focused legislation.
CMSgt Josh J. Baker, serving as both EANGUS National President and Past President of CAL EANGUS, delivered updates from the National Office and provided a thoughtful summary of CAL EANGUS’ achievements over the past year.
During the business session, members approved the operational budget for the upcoming calendar year and held officer elections. 1SG Jeff Hawley was elected as Vice President, filling the remaining one-year term. SFC (Ret) Tiffany Caldwell was selected as Secretary, succeeding WO1 Lizabeth Cruz, who was recognized for her modernization of the position. SSgt Melanie Nolen will continue serving as Treasurer, and CSM Kristi Caldwell remains as the Member-at-Large Life Board member. The Member-at-Large Annual position remains open for nominations. CMSgt Josh J. Baker was elected to fill a long vacant position as the Executive Director for CAL EANGUS, providing continuity and stability to the Association.
The conference concluded with a lively social gathering at the historic 94th Aero Squadron Restaurant, where attendees celebrated another successful year of service and connection.
A special thank-you goes out to the 79th Infantry Brigade Combat Team for providing the conference location and hosting the event, and to CSM Kristi Caldwell for coordinating the food, coffee, and snacks that kept our members fueled throughout the day.
Thank you to all who attended—both in person and virtually—for your continued commitment to our mission. Together, we remain Always Ready, Always There to advocate for California’s enlisted service members.
