Inaugural ‘Cool Heroes’ giveaway nets Army vet free AC unit

Crystal Air & Water announces John Locke, over the phone, as the Cool Heroes giveaway winner.
Crystal Air & Water announces John Locke, over the phone, as the Cool Heroes giveaway winner.
Photo by Seth Johnson

Joseph Locke won Crystal Air & Water’s inaugural “Cool Heroes A/C Giveaway” on Thursday at the company offices in Haile Village, following 60 qualified candidates and more than 1,000 votes.  

Locke, a U.S. Army veteran who served from 1984 to 2004, will get a free Trane cooling and heating system installed in his home. The event aimed to celebrate unsung heroes in the community and participants included teachers, first responders, healthcare workers, veterans and active military.  

Jeff Cardozo, Paula Smith and Kirk Smith
Courtesy of Patricia Garzon Jeff Cardozo, Paula Smith and Pat Dooley

Locke crossed categories as a veteran who also served for 24 years at P.K. Yonge Developmental Research School, building the school’s network from 150 desktop computers to a wireless infrastructure supporting more than 1,500 devices streaming content throughout the school day. 

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He received the University of Florida’s Superior Accomplishment Award for his work in 2021. 

Kirk Smith, president of Crystal Air & Water, said in a release that the company is honored to recognize these community members.  

“We’ve been truly touched by the stories of courage and service from our local heroes. This event is not just about giving away a prize but about celebrating those who go above and beyond for others,” Smith said. 

Sheriff Emery Gainey on the air with Jeff Cardozo on WRUF/ESPN radio’s Tailgate show with Jeff Cardozo and Pat Dooley.
Courtesy of Patricia Garzon Sheriff Emery Gainey on the air with Jeff Cardozo on WRUF/ESPN radio’s Tailgate show with Jeff Cardozo and Pat Dooley, Thursday at Crystal Air & Water.

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Sadie Darnell

What a great way for a local business to express gratitude to veterans. Well done!