As we close out another year of service, advocacy, and impact, the CAL EANGUS leadership team would like to take a moment to reflect on what we’ve accomplished together—and to express our heartfelt gratitude to each of you who make this Association strong.
This year reminded us that CAL EANGUS is far more than an organization. It is a collective voice, a safeguard, and a force multiplier for California’s enlisted Guardsmen—past and present—and their families.
CAL EANGUS President AJ Johnson shared a message of gratitude and reflection as we head into the holiday season:
“I hope you are all enjoying time with those you love most, and remembering those that aren’t with us… with hearts of gratitude and joy.”
AJ emphasized the extraordinary commitment of those who serve within the Association:
“This team—each one of you—are serving on this board representing our growing members above and outside the call of duty. You carry the burden of care that is not being delivered to the service member, past or current.”
That sense of responsibility is exactly what drives CAL EANGUS forward. We exist because too often, Guardsmen are asked to serve without the benefits, protections, or recognition afforded to others—and because silence has never led to progress.
“Yes, we are the 1% that raised our hand to serve, but our oath of enlistment said nothing about doing so quietly,” AJ noted. “We need to be loud, especially because there are too many that are forced to not have a voice, or don’t know that they have one.”
That amplified voice has produced real results this year—from protecting military leave for state employees, to burial equity for Guard and Reserve members, to landmark legislation exempting a portion of military pensions from state taxation.
Looking ahead, CAL EANGUS is already focused on the next phase of advocacy.
“Future plans include expanding military pension percentages as well as seeking legislation that would make Emergency State Active Duty pay tax-exempt,” AJ shared.
From an operational and legislative perspective, Executive Director Josh J. Baker echoed that momentum and outlined what lies ahead:
“As we head into the new year, CAL EANGUS is not slowing down. We are actively planning for the next legislative session, building coalitions, and laying the groundwork for bills that directly improve quality of life for our Guardsmen and their families.”
Josh emphasized that success depends on unity and engagement:
“Every legislative win we achieve is the result of preparation, persistence, and the collective strength of our members. When we speak together—clearly and consistently—lawmakers listen.”
President Johnson captured that idea perfectly:
“This Association is a vessel to deliver that amplified and unified voice. Individually, we are but drops of water in an ocean. Collectively, we are that ocean.”
As the year comes to a close, CAL EANGUS leadership wants to thank every board member, volunteer, advocate, and member for your time, your passion, and your willingness to stand up for others.
“Without you, we wouldn’t have an ocean,” AJ reminded us. “Thank you all for your continued service to our country and to this Association.”
We wish you and your families a safe, restful, and joyful holiday season—and we look forward to continuing the work together in the year ahead.
Be safe. Be merry. Be grateful. And we’ll see you at the next board meeting in the new year.
