By Megan Wehring
Deep roots in the Hays County area, specifically his hometown of Wimberley, drove Candidate Marshall Andrews to train to become an officer in the U.S. Navy.
Andrews is wrapping up the 13-week Officer Candidate School in Newport, Rhode Island. Candidates will need to graduate the program on Sept. 10 before they can commission as an Ensign in the Navy on Sept. 11.
A 2014 graduate from Wimberley High School, Andrews graduated from Texas State University in San Marcos in 2019 with a degree in manufacturing engineering. Andrews said his high school experiences shaped him for the future.
“My hometown roots play a huge role in where I am at today,” Andrews said. “I grew up in a football program there so that’s where I learned a lot of my discipline and just how to handle adverse situations.”
After graduating college, Andrews said he wanted to find a career that would give him “the best situation for my future” to “take care of my future family one day.” He believes joining the Navy would do just that.
Being miles away from home can take a toll on anyone, especially when in a grueling training program. Andrews said an excellent support system from his hometown has helped him stay motivated through it all.
“My mom actually went around to a lot of the mentors in my life,” Andrews said. “My coaches, family and some friends. They all wrote a letter for me. I got to read all of these encouraging words.”
Wimberley was more than just a home address for Andrews. From little league to high school, Andrews was involved in almost every sports team along with town events. To this day, Andrews encourages students to create lifelong memories starting from a young age.
“Even now that I’ve graduated, I’ll go back to football games,” Andrews said. “I encourage our kids that are still playing for Wimberley and the next generation to keep pushing on, make memories and good luck with the next chapter of their life.”
Andrews gives some lasting advice for those wanting to join the Navy Officer Candidate School.
“This is a program that will test you mentally, physically and emotionally,” Andrews said. “If this is something you truly want to do, give it everything you got. Always remember where you came from and remember why you want to do this.”
Andrews said he is grateful to have his family, friends and hometown of Wimberley as a support system while in the training program.
“Without them, I probably wouldn’t be here,” Andrews said. “Family is huge to me and will always be there for me. I would love to give the town of Wimberley, Texas, a shout out. They also played a big part in who I am today and the career I intend to follow.”
