Big changes for American Military Celebration: Growth spurs organization restructure

By Susan Kanode for American Military Celebration (AMC)

STEPHENVILLE, Texas (May 15, 2023) – When Charly Crawford hosted his first free roping school for military veterans back in 2014, he had no idea how that group would impact his life and what it would lead to.

The roping school has happened every year since and now also includes first responders. The past three years, it has been held in the fall and features competition, many the best ropers in the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association and fund raising for organizations that help America’s heroes.

Last year a spring event was added with United We Brand where those heroes have authentic Western lifestyle experiences gathering and caring for cattle. Knowing that more events are coming and the organization’s impact, a decision was made to change the name from American Military Celebration to the Liberty & Loyalty Foundation.

Additionally, the activities during the fall event will be under the American Hero Celebration with Charly Crawford. They are scheduled for November 7 – 11 in Decatur and Fort Worth Texas. It will start with the Horns N’ Heroes school at NRS Ranch followed by several different team roping competitions. On Friday, November 10^th, a gala at The 81 Club at Billy Bob’s Texas will be held to support fund-raising efforts.

On November 11^th, Veteran’s Day, Cowtown Coliseum will host the NFR Showdown, a don’t miss event for team roping fans. Wrangler National Finals Rodeo qualifiers will be showcased along with the 15 teams who advance to the finals from the Military/First Responders Roping. The best teams from the “Stray Gathering” will also have a chance to show their cattle working skills.

“We felt like we needed an umbrella organization to cover all the events we’re putting on and the onew we hope to have in the future,” Crawford said. “It wasn’t easy, but it’s going to help us expand what we are doing.”

During the last three years events, over $300,000 has been raised. The bulk of that has been donated to Building Homes for Heroes, an organization that provides homes for veterans. Last year they added the Fort Worth chapter of Brotherhood for the Fallen, which supports families of police officers killed violently in the line of duty.

“We have so much respect for our first responders,” Crawford added. “We have included them in our activities, now they are included in our name. It’s just the beginning of a new chapter of growth that shows respect for all of those who are willing to lay their lives on the line for us.”