Welcome to the ninth edition of High Command Life stories, where we interview High Command members across the community to learn about their life within the community. In this edition, we’ll be taking a look at Ana from the Elite Guardians of Club Penguin.
Ana, also known as Izzy is currently serving as a Third in Command for the Elite Guardians. She began her army career with the Club Penguin Crew on November 13th, 2017. However, it did not last long as the army soon became the Club Penguin Crew Empire. Ana, alongside many others, left the new army and joined multiple armies. This included the Rebel Penguin Federation, Water Ninjas of Club Penguin, Underground Mafia Army, and many more. Eventually, she settled down to occasionally attend events for the Elite Guardians.
Club Penguin Crew in 2017
On March 9th, 2019, Ana joined the Royals, in the earliest days of their first generation. After around a year in the army, she moved on to the Special Weapons and Tactics during March 2020. Soon, she climbed her way up to Leader in Training. However, following a decline in sizes SWAT merged into the Doritos. Disagreeing with the merge, Ana, Sweater, Sophiebee, and Fast decided to revive SWAT. Thus, Ana acquired the first leadership role of her career. Unfortunately, her leadership was short-lived as she stepped down from leadership. In synchronization with her SWAT leadership, she led the One Direction Army as well.
SWAT on CPATG in 2020
After departing from the One Direction Army, Ana had another brief stint with the Underground Mafias Army. However, after their shutdown she left the army community until April this year. Following the return of the Elite Guardians, she rejoined them as a Captain and quickly started ranking up. During this time, the Elite Guardians reclaimed their major status, and participated in the World War IX as a member of the Blue Sunset Alliance. Ana currently acts as their AUSIA Leader and Third in Command.
Elite Guardians in the World War IX
Club Penguin Armies sat down with Ana to discuss more about her journey as a High Command member.
What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned from being in armies?
The biggest lesson I’ve learned from being in Club Penguin armies is the immense significance of teamwork that is used in order to ensure the smooth functioning of the army. From planning and executing strategies to participating in battles and events, we rely on the coordinated actions of our troops. It becomes evident that no individual, no matter how skilled or dedicated, can single-handedly carry the weight of an entire army. Instead, it is through the combined strengths and contributions of each member that the army becomes a force to be reckoned with. It honestly has taught me a lot about the effect in communication, mutual support, and the ability to put aside personal differences for the greater good.
What has your favorite moment been within the community?
Ahhh, there’s too many moments in CPA throughout the years, but one of my most cherished is meeting my friends whom I consider family. Throughout the years people come and go, however, these people have stuck by my side since day one. They know who they are and I’m extremely grateful and appreciate them being by my side <3
How does it feel to be HCOM?
Honestly, it brings back all the memories from being apart of an army. It highlights the memories and emotions associated with my journey in CPA, both during active participation and in retirement, up until this April, when EGCP was planning the revival. The sense of nostalgia is definitely there, the nostalgia tied up to my own memories of being new to the world of Club Penguin Armies and seeing my younger self reflected in the new recruits. This serves as a reminder of the journey I once embarked upon and the growth and experiences I gained along the way.
What advice would you give members of armies who newly get promoted to HCOM?
Congratulations to those who newly got promoted to HCOM! The immense effort you put in your respective army was not unnoticed. My advice is to keep working hard by joining events, engaging with your troops and the community, keep recruiting, and most importantly, remember that being an HCOM member, implies that you need to support and empower your troops, foster a positive and inclusive environment, and contribute to the growth and success of the army.
In your opinion, what is the biggest shift that comes from mod to HCOM?
The shift from mod to HCOM represents a transition from a primarily operational role, primarily focus on day-to-day operational tasks, to a more strategic and leadership-oriented position. It involves taking on greater responsibilities, making important decisions, and playing a pivotal role in shaping the direction and culture of the army. You participate in discussions and contribute to key decisions related to recruitment, promotions, battle strategies, and long-term goals. Your input and actions as HCOM have a direct impact on the army’s culture, growth, and success, so approach your role with careful consideration and a sense of responsibility
What are your plans and goals for the army?
My plans and goals for EGCP is to always have a clear vision on our future as an army. We are working towards fostering a strong community, by organizing engaging events and activities, recruiting new members, enhancing training and development programs, and actively participating in the wider CPA community.
If you could go through CPA all over again for the first time, but with all the knowledge you currently have on the community, would you do anything differently?
This question is giving me a very hard time, but I am basically starting anew again after unretiring. If I were to approach CPA with all the knowledge I currently have, there might be certain things I would do differently. Recognizing that the CPA landscape is ever-evolving, I would maintain an open mind, adapt to changes, and embrace new strategies and approaches. This flexibility would allow me to navigate the community more effectively and contribute to its growth and success. I would tell my past self to find a healthy balance between my involvement in CPA and other aspects of my life. It’s important to prioritize mental and emotional well-being, ensuring that CPA activities are enjoyable and not overwhelming (something I didn’t do in 2020
).
Ana has certainly seen a big chunk of the army community, being a part of it for 6 years and having enlisted in multiple stories. It was interesting taking her view as an old-time veteran, and she had excellent advice for others in her shoes. Club Penguin Armies wishes her our best for her future with the Elite Guardians.
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Mchappy is interning at Club Penguin Armies as the Chief Executive Producer. Max held him at gunpoint to finish his biography.