Application for Membership

The Sergeants Major Association was chartered in the State of California on 19 October 1968 as a social,patriotic organization advocating the following creed:

“We, the Sergeants Major of the California National Guard, being desirous of improving the status and image of the National Guard and promoting the well-being, welfare and qualifications of the enlisted members of the National Guard, dedicate ourselves to maintaining the professionalism required of us and pledge ourselves to this creed.”

The Association was founded by a group of Sergeants Major from units throughout California. The goals of the Association since inception have been to enhance the image of the National Guard and to provide means of communications for senior noncommissioned officers. Although these goals have remained the same throughout the years, the composition of the organization has changed. Association membership is open to members of the Active Reserve Components in the top three enlisted grades.

The Sergeants Major Association has been involved in many note-worthy projects over the years. Most notable have been support of the Noncommissioned Officers Educational System and establishment of the Enlisted
and NCO Clubs at Camp Roberts, Fort Irwin and Camp San Luis Obispo. The Association is currently involved in several projects to enhance professional development of its members. And we are the managers of the Chaplian’s Fund helping Guardsmen throughout the state.

The Sergeants Major Association is assisted in its endeavors by the Sergeants Major Association Auxiliary. In addition to supporting the Association, the Auxiliary carries on its own social and charitable programs. Both the Association and the Auxiliary are committed to fostering the concept of family support and involvement in the California National Guard. Dues in the Association are $40.00 per year. Additionally, new members are charged a $10.00 initiation fee.The benefits of membership far outweigh the dues. Some of the tangible benefits of belonging to this organization are:

• Distinctive SMA Belt Buckle
• Survivor Benefit
• Quarterly Newsletter
• Annual Conference and Military Ball

A major portion of your dues is returned to the members at the Annual Conference and Military Ball which is held each year on the Columbus Day Weekend. This conference provides members with the opportunity to get acquainted with fellow NCO’s from around the state. The association holds its Military Banquet on Saturday of the Annual Conference. Each year, a distinguished soldier is invited to address the attendees at the Banquet. Previous speakers have been the Sergeant Major of the Army, the Adjutants General of California and Oregon and the President of the Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the United States. This function which is considered a high point in the social life of the military community is provided at a minimal charge to each member and his/her guest.

In addition to the Annual Conference, a midyear business meeting is held in the Spring and Camp San Luis Obispo. This meeting provides an additional opportunity for the membership to meet and exchange ideas in both a social and professional environment.