Kip Human
Kip Human
Kip Huhman, raised in Taylor, Nebraska in a military family, has a deep connection to the armed forces. With his father serving in the US Army during the Vietnam War and his mother and sister retiring from the US Navy, Kip’s own military journey began in 2002 when he joined the US Marine Corps after the 9/11 attacks. Serving until 2006, he participated in Operation Enduring Freedom in Uzbekistan and supported Operation Iraqi Freedom. Kip re-enlisted from 2007 to 2011, deploying with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit and the 1st Tank Battalion Delta Company for Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan, which were the first US tanks deployed and operated in Afghanistan. Additionally, he worked as a Tank Commander on the M1A1 Abrams main battle tank and was also a small arms weapons instructor, specializing in rifles, pistols, and crew-served weapons.
Even before Kip was old enough to ride a horse, his father taught him the art of roping. After his time in the Marine Corps, Kip found himself in Stephenville, Texas, a perfect location for pursuing his passion for team roping.
In 2020, Kip’s friend Jon Kelly informed him about a team roping clinic exclusively for veterans and active service members, founded by Charly Crawford and now referred to as Horns N’ Heroes. The event caught Kip’s interest, and he and Jon quickly signed up. At the clinic, Kip had the opportunity to meet Charly and Trey Johnson, both exceptional roping instructors who taught him valuable skills and helped him discover more about himself. Kip formed a strong friendship with Charly, who later invited him to heel at his heading clinics. In 2021, Kip became an ambassador for American Military Celebration, now Liberty & Loyalty Foundation (LLF), offering his support wherever it was needed. In 2022, he took on the role of Arena Director, a position he will continue to hold in 2023. Throughout this time, Charly became a trusted mentor and friend to Kip, aiding in his growth as a roper.
Outside of his involvement with the LLF, Kip currently resides in Weatherford, Texas, working as a heavy equipment operator building arena foundations. Kip expresses immense gratitude for the opportunities LLF has provided him. Kip stated, “I feel a strong the sense of camaraderie and the foundation gives me an opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and forge new friendships with active and veteran service members”. Following his initial experience with LLF, Charly and his wife, Jackie, became an incredible support system for Kip. “I deeply appreciate the Crawford family’s enduring friendship and encouragement and I look forward to being part of the growth and success of LLF.”