November 2024

Veteran of the Month, November 2024

Sergeant First Class (Ret.) Herman “Drew” Andrews

Sergeant First Class (Ret.) Herman “Drew” Andrews is a distinguished veteran who honorably served in the United States Army for 21 years, retiring at the rank of Sergeant First Class. His military journey began with Basic Training at Fort Knox, Kentucky, followed by Advanced Individual Training (AIT) at Fort Sam Houston, Texas, where he trained as a 91Alpha, Medical Specialist. He later advanced his medical expertise by becoming a 91Charlie, Licensed Practical Nurse.

Throughout his career, SFC Andrews demonstrated exceptional leadership, completing various Army leadership development courses, including the Primary Leadership Development Course (PLDC), Basic Non-Commissioned Officer Course (BNOC), Advanced Non-Commissioned Officer Course (ANOC), and Instructor School. His expertise led him to instruct the Army’s prestigious Practical Nurse Program. His diverse assignments took him across the globe, including HHB 3/2 ACR Amberg, Germany; HHC 2nd Battalion 10th Cavalry, Fort Knox, Kentucky; Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Washington, DC; 47th Field Hospital, Fort Sill, Oklahoma; Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE), Belgium; and Brooke Army Medical Center, Fort Sam Houston, Texas. His final assignment was with the 2nd Battalion, 29th Infantry Regiment at Fort Benning, Georgia (now Fort Moore).

During his service, SFC Andrews participated in numerous humanitarian missions, providing healthcare and supporting community development in underdeveloped countries. His commendable service has been recognized with numerous awards, including the Meritorious Service Medal, three Army Commendation Medals, five Army Achievement Medals, six Army Good Conduct Medals, two National Defense Service Medals, the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Humanitarian Service Medal, and the prestigious Expert Field Medical Badge (EFMB).

Post-retirement, SFC Andrews has become a dedicated community organizer, advocating for expanded senior services, criminal justice reform, affordable housing, and the advancement of a Living Wage. He is also a staunch supporter of small businesses and entrepreneurs, helping to create financial and coaching opportunities for their growth.

Currently, he serves as a Trustee on the Clayton County Library Board and a Board Member for the Friends of Clayton County Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA). He has previously served on several other boards, including the Atlanta Policing Alternative Diversion Initiative (PAD), the Urban League of Greater Atlanta, and as Vice Chair of the Clayton County Development Authority. His contributions have earned him a place in ‘Who’s Who in Black Atlanta,’ recognizing him as one of the city’s most influential individuals.

SFC Andrews is a graduate of Wayland Baptist University with a Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration, an MBA in Marketing from Clark Atlanta University, and a Master of Public Administration from Clayton State University. He is a successful entrepreneur, serving as an Advertising, Marketing, and Political Consultant, and is a sought-after national speaker.

A member of Tabernacle of Praise Church International in Jonesboro, Georgia, SFC Andrews is also a proud member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., the Urban League, and is the first male President of the Urban League of Greater Atlanta Guild. He is a loving father of four and a devoted grandfather of two.