Sarah Cervantes

Share your military spouse story:
I am originally from Central Pennsylvania born and raised, and that is where I met my husband who was stationed at Recruiting Station Harrisburg. Like most 20 something year old's he was just supposed to be nothing short of "we're just having fun" moment in time. And just like any military member his time in PA was coming to a close as he had orders to California. He wanted me to go with him, and I said "not without a ring/commitment!". Because who else in their right mind would leave their whole life, home, job, and family for just a little more fun? To my surprise he did as Beyonce said "If you like it then you should have put a ring on it" in January of 2013. Shortly before moving to San Diego, we married on June 1st 2013. We have been together 11 years and married 10 with four children, two dogs, and one very curious cat. He has been in the Marine Corps since 1999 and we will soon be embarking life on the other side of the Marine Corps in 2025.

Share an example of your leadership experience within the military community:
My leadership experience is like most of the spouses who have been nominated for this award. We all do our part no matter how big, small, recognized or not. Whether that be making a meal for a family in a time of celebration/sorrow, helping to sort Toys for Tots, engaging in conversation to bridge a gap that might not have otherwise been formed and ultimately leaving the Marine Corps world better than when we arrived in to it. The leadership experience that I've been able to be a part of has been connecting with women, families, and service members through normal outreach opportunities like Stroller Warriors(San Diego, New Orleans, Okinawa and Parris Island). I've been really lucky to be a part of and be in leadership positions of all the chapters stated above in my time as an active duty spouse.

Describe your involvement in the military community:
My level of involvement is like a tapestry weaved throughout my time as a spouse within this community. I'm a mover and a shaker, if something needs to be helped, focused, restructured, I'm on it! My history of supporting my fellow spouses really lies in the world of body movement. I have been a part of Stroller Warriors since 2016 when MCRD's chapter first opened and until now with Parris Island. I have been/currently a new mom seeking out support, encouragement and friendship when my world was so isolated and now I am the current coordinator for our local Parris Island chapter where I am the main point of contact for the chapter.

Describe how you support your community:
I support this community by just showing up, flaws and all, my own real stories, communicating and just being there for military families. You don't have to be flashy, have a million followers, or the picture perfect family to make a difference in your corner of this military life. Life inside and outside of this military bubble is all about connection, inclusivity and networking. If I can't find the answer/support you need, I bet I know someone who can. Do better, know better, be better and that is how you best support military spouses and their families.

What do you advocate for? Why?
I advocate for movement(physically and structurally), moving our bodies is so critical to help our own mental space when this life can be so very difficult. The main mission of Stroller Warriors is to help military families live happier, healthier lives through fitness, friendship, leadership, goal setting, networking and community outreach. Structurally I like to not just talk about it, but be about it, if I see an issue, lets find the right person to start the process of change!

How have you spread the message of your platform/advocacy?
My background as a Social Worker has come in handy when learning to effectively communicate with other realms of leadership across this landscape. I'm typically the one reaching out regarding opportunities for our members to be engaged in such as Wreaths Across America and other volunteer endeavors. When it comes to arenas I'm not actively a part of I will sit in or follow-up regarding the issues at hand with my points of contact.

What do you hope to accomplish with the AFI Military Spouse of the Year^® title?
Continue to include and retain the power of fitness and friendship in our ever changing lives. Every body should be empowered, uplifted and celebrated for who they are!