Friday, March 17, 2017
Public service has been a part of newly-elected State Sen. Jack Sandlin’s (R-Indianapolis) life since he was 18 years old.
As soon as he turned his tassel at Greenwood High School, he took a temporary job at the Indianapolis Police Department.
“[I did it to] kind of see if I would want to spend a career in law enforcement,” Sandlin said.
But his plan to serve his community was put on hold when he was called to serve in the United States Military.
Prior to starting basic training in Fort Knox, Kentucky, Sandlin was given one piece of advice.
“They always tell you when you’re going into the service to never volunteer for anything,” he said.
But with service in mind, Sandlin did the opposite. He volunteered to get his military driver’s license to transport troops from one area of the base to another.
“Best move I ever made,” he said. “It opened up a lot of doors.”
Sandlin served his country for many years and retired as a sergeant. But his plan to serve others was far from over. When he returned home, he joined the Indianapolis Police Department, served as an Indianapolis Township Trustee, and as a councilman on the Indianapolis City-County Council.
Last year, Sandlin chose to run for another public office - the Indiana State Senate.
“I just say that it’s part of a continuation of a lifetime of service,” he said.
Life outside of public service
Aside from serving others, Sandlin’s life is centered around two things - his family and his home.
Growing up with seven brothers and sisters, family was a large part of his childhood. Now, as a grandfather, a lot of his spare time is spent with his grandchildren.
In addition to family, Sandlin works on projects around his home.
“I just like to tinker around the house,” he said. “There is always something to do.”
First-year goal
This legislative session, Sandlin has one main goal – to learn more about his new job as a senator.
“[I want] to learn as much as I can,” he said.
Sandlin’s Favorites
