Travis Boes
Travis Boes
Several years ago, Travis was introduced to the American Hero Celebration by a fellow ambassador who encouraged him to attend and connect with other veterans, including Charly Crawford and Trey Johnson. As a novice roper, Travis had no idea what to expect, but the experience surpassed his expectations and ignited a passion for team roping that continues to drive Travis today.
Travis’ military journey began in 1995 when he joined the Marine Corps as a CH46E Crew Chief, serving as a flying mechanic. Travis was stationed in Okinawa, Japan, where he spent a significant portion of his time deployed on the USS Dubuque, USS New Orleans, and USS Belleau Wood, traveling to Australia and Thailand. The majority of his Marine Corps career was spent in Washington DC, attached to HMX-1, the Presidential Helicopter Squadron. During this time, he transitioned to the VH3D and had the privilege of serving as a Marine One Crew Chief, flying with both President Clinton and President Bush.
Later, Travis embarked on the next chapter of his military career and joined the Army as a Warrant Officer and Pilot. Fortunate circumstances led him to select the AH64D Longbow Attack Helicopter during flight school. Travis was then stationed at Fort Hood, Texas, with the 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment and deployed to Iraq in 2007 as a Pilot in Command. However, his military career took an unexpected turn in 2008 when he was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes, bringing it to an abrupt halt.
Despite this setback, it became evident to Travis that a higher power had a different plan in store for him. He found himself working for the Federal Aviation Administration, serving as a Lead Operations Officer in Fort Worth. While residing in Decatur, Texas, Travis is determined to strike a balance between his passion for roping and the precious moments he shares with his wife of 24 years, his work responsibilities, and the joys of life alongside his adult children and grandchildren.
The diagnosis of Diabetes has had a profound impact on Travis’ life. At the time, he wasn’t ready to let go of his flight suit. However, living with diabetes has taught him the importance of resilience and adapting to the unexpected challenges that life throws our way. Travis has learned to roll with the punches, pushing forward despite pain and uncertainty, knowing that perseverance is key.