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‘My life has been a blessing’: Army veteran wins Hyundai Hometown Hero

Josh Beauchamp, Audience Development Director

Published: November 3, 2022 at 10:14 AMUpdated: November 3, 2022 at 4:42 PM

Tags: Insider, Hyundai Hometown Hero, U.S. Army, Military

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JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – A retired Army sergeant who grew up in the Hilltop and Golfbrook projects of Northwest Jacksonville says his “life has been blessed” as he found out on Tuesday that he is the latest Hyundai Hometown Hero.

“I just do what my spirit tells me to do. And then I go from there,” said CSM Andrew Wynn, Sr.

The 30-year military veteran will be driving a brand new Hyundai Tucson SUV to go where he was to go now that he was selected out of nearly 200 other service members and veterans as the winner.

CSM Andrew Wynn, Sr. U.S. Army (ret.) (WJXT)

News4JAX partnered with the car manufacturer’s local dealerships to honor everyday people who have a positive impact on their communities and rewarded each with a new 2022 Hyundai Tucson SUV.

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The first two rounds honored teachers and educators, as well as first responders. In the military round, more than 5,800 votes were cast between 195 nominees. CSM Wynn received 2,292 votes.

“The funny thing is, I’ve been thinking about gettin me a new car but I kept saying, ‘Nah, I’m just gonna wait,’ because just the cost of the car and ya know, they’re up 40 percent so I just said ‘I’m gonna wait.’”

Wynn was raised by his single mother along with four siblings. He became a soccer star at William M. Raines High School and dreamed of playing the sport in college after earning two scholarships.

Andrew Wynn playing soccer for William M. Raines High School in the mid-1980's. (WJXT)

His mother, Idella, had a different dream for her son. The United States military.

“I tell everybody now, I’m living my mama’s dream for me,” Wynn said.

Three days after graduation, it was the passing of his mother that inspired him to live out her dream for him by joining the Army.

“I never ever, I wasn’t in the ROTC, I never thought about joining the military. I still had a promise that I made to my mom and I joined the military. I mean, she wanted me to change my life,” Wynn said.

Over his three-decade career, CSM Wynn served five combat missions and now helps mentor young people in schools and local youth programs.

He said he doesn’t deserve to be called a hero but nevertheless tries to earn it as he lives out his mother’s vision.

“This is not my dream. I never dreamed, I can’t say it enough, this is my mama’s dream for me. So she saw something I didn’t see,” CSM Wynn said. “I deployed five times and I ain’t never lost nobody. So, that’s my legacy. What I leave is my actions, words and deeds need to be aligned. So, the hero part is, I wouldn’t say that. I just want be a respected mentor.”

Here is the submission made on CSM Wynn’s behalf to the Hyundai Hometown Hero - Military contest:

Introducing a Man of Honor and Integrity who genuinely cares for others, is self-disciplined, and exemplifies superior leadership skills. When we emphasized our Heroic history, I can genuinely say he’s Jacksonville’s Finest Hero! And he is a true definition of Duval County’s Most Exemplary Hometown Hero. He has been a source of encouragement to those who felt defeated. As a result of his inspirational words, many are now striving to become the best version of themselves, discovering their true hidden treasure, which now signs like a bright diamond.
Andrew Wynn came from the Poverty of Black Communities (Hilltop and Golfbrook), raised by a single mom who wanted nothing but the best for her five children. His mother, Ms. Idella, died three days after he graduated from high school but not before giving him some Life-changing advice, which propelled his road map to success. Those words from his Mother's Heart became his reality, and he adopted a Lifelong slogan, "My Mother Dream For Me." With those words, he escaped the struggles of poverty and the ills of his environment by believing that life could be different because of a mother's vision for her son.
Therefore, in Nov 1985, he enlisted in the United States Army. Although he changed his trajectory, there were still many obstacles and opposition to overcome. Nevertheless, he stood on this thought, "my mother worked too hard for him not to be great ." He conquered every trial by putting GOD first and keeping his Mother's vision before him. During his 30 years of military service, he received numerous awards for his relentless commitment and faithfulness.
He has proven to be one of our finest HomeTown Heros representing Duval County with integrity, respect, and service to our country worldwide. In 2016, he retired and could have settled in any place in the world, however, he decided to bring his experience and expertise back to his hometown. Since retiring, he has enjoyed spending time with his family and friends and helping others. Amazingly, in the wee hours of the morning, he is up writing thought-provoking vignettes for over 300 individuals that inspire them to become the best version of themselves. In addition, he avails himself by taking many phone calls. He always has a listening ear and readily imparts words of wisdom to challenge the caller to focus and strive for the best while making sound decisions. He exhorts them to make peace with their past and not be a hostage because of their decision. He promotes others to have a healthy relationship with their inner being, understanding that fault and responsibility don’t mix, meaning yes, someone wrongs you; however, it’s your responsibility to ensure your heart is no longer hurting. Practicing forgiveness and understanding is for you, not others.
These HEROIC actions from this Man of Honor groom many to become the Best Version of themselves and break free from generational choices. Other contributions to people in the community include:
Providing temporary housing and transportation to those in need.
Assisting with funeral expenses. Standing in the gap as Dad for the absentee Father.
Mentoring young men in FLYCA. Serving as a liaison for young participants in Florida Boys State.
Transportation for underprivileged students to the movie. President of HOA in his community
Mowing the lawn of senior citizens and his neighbors who struggle to keep their grounds groomed.
Sending flowers or personal items to the elderly as needed
Guide teens to minimize behavior issues in school
I have only stated a tiny synopsis of his innumerable traits. Andrew Wynn is the same whether in a retired uniform or ordinary clothing. He is that humorous person that will always see your potential and help you believe in yourself. And what does he want in return? Only to see others fulfill their purpose on earth. His selfless gestures and posture in life will cause nothing but blessings to flow his way. Thus, I nominate CSM(R) Andrew J. Wynn, Sr. for our next Hometown Hero!
Eureka Pratt

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