A Texas-based soldier died Thursday after a prolonged illness, according to an Army release.
Sgt. Maj. William A. Robles, who was assigned to the Regional Affairs Directorate at U.S. Army South, died at the San Antonio Military Medical Center at Joint Base San Antonio-Fort Sam Houston.
Robles served as an instructor at the Brazilian Non-Commissioned Officer Academy, part of the Army South Military Personnel Exchange Program, according to the release.
"We are extremely saddened and will miss Bill tremendously. He was an incredible Soldier who has served his country for decades and inspired everyone he encountered. I extend my heartfelt sympathy to Sgt. Maj. Robles' family and to everyone who knew him," Maj. Gen. K.K. Chinn, commander of Army South, said in the release. "He was a credit to the uniform he wore."
Robles, born in El Salvador but raised in Los Angeles, enlisted in the California National Guard in 1986 and entered active duty in 1988 upon graduating high school.
He became an Army Special Forces communications sergeant and served multiple assignments in the 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne) and the 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne). He deployed to Saudi Arabia, Kosovo, Iraq and Afghanistan.
"Sgt. Maj. Robles was a true professional, and he lived the NCO creed," Command Sgt. Maj. Carlos Olvera, the Army South command sergeant major, said in the release. "He was exactly the type of NCO we needed training our partner nation Armies. His loss will be felt throughout the command."
Robles' awards include the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal and Joint Service Commendation Medal.
He is survived by his wife and daughter, who are also in the Army.
Charlsy Panzino covers the Guard and Reserve, training, technology, operations and features for Army Times and Air Force Times. Email her at cpanzino@militarytimes.com.
Charlsy is a Reporter and Engagement Manager for Military Times. Email her at cpanzino@militarytimes.com.
