In the quiet atmosphere of his classroom, he reminisces, acknowledging how far he’s come.
Studying over his vast collection of photos, he looks back on experiences he can never forget.
History teacher Charles Andrews, a former active duty soldier and current U.S. Army reserve veteran has been working as a teacher for more than 25 years.
Andrews worked as a special operations soldier in his military career for 11 years, and later on as critical response for emergency management in the Army and Department of Defense. Andrews was deployed seven times, getting to experience many different cultures around the world.
“I’m a teacher and a soldier,” Andrews said. “I’m proud of both of these titles, and they’re both very rewarding. The skills I learned in the military helped me in school in a lot of ways. The comfort I have talking to groups here translates to getting a group of soldiers together and talking to them.”
While in active duty, Andrews served as a military instructor, combining his experience in teaching to his military life.
“Teaching soldiers is much different than teaching high school kids,” Andrews said. “Here, I’m like ‘Hey, wake up,’ there I’m teaching tactics and different things to soldiers and [them] immediately moving. It’s just two different universes.”
During his time as a teacher, Andrews has made a profound impact on those around him.
“It’s always very memorable to have him there and hear what he says to our students,” StuCo adviser Bernette Lindamood said. “What he has done so well is his humbleness, his kindness, his respect for others, and [his] humanity shines through more than anything else.”
Andrews has forged a legacy that will not be easily forgotten.
“The biggest thing with Mr. Andrews is his connection with people,” history teacher Ryan Hamilton said. “He is genuine, he is outgoing and always willing to help and serve.”
Even today, Andrews continues to try to explore and understand the world better.
“He views the world as an adventure, as something to explore and embrace,” Hamilton said. “He’s always looking to make those connections and see the bigger world.”
Through everything, however, Andrews has stayed true to himself and his core values.
“The only fans I need are my kids and my wife; I need to be my kids’ hero,” Andrews said. “I appreciate the respect, but I don’t need to sign any autographs. I didn’t do it for that. I did it for my freedom.”
