After 20 years of service in the U.S. Army, combat veteran Kyle Tripp was honored through the SCIF Combat Veterans Hunt with an unforgettable experience at Union Hill Ranch in Texas.
Recognizing and honoring the heroes who risk their lives for our freedoms has always been a core tradition at SCI Foundation. Through its Veterans Programs, SCI Foundation pays tribute to their courage and sacrifice with meaningful opportunities in the outdoors.
In 2026, Kyle Tripp, President of the Alaska Chapter and a 20-year Army combat veteran, was selected for the SCIF Combat Veterans Hunt. His award included a three-day, two-night axis deer hunt generously donated by Union Hill Ranch in Kopperl, Texas.
A Hunt I’ll Always Remember
By Kyle Tripp
My hunt began September 25, and from the start, the food, hospitality and staff at Union Hill Ranch were outstanding. Everyone made me feel welcome, and my guide, Will, did a tremendous job helping me successfully harvest my first-ever axis deer.
The axis deer proved elusive. On our final morning sit, we got within range of two good bucks, but a clear shot never developed before they spooked. With one morning left, I asked Will if we could cover some ground and try a stalk. He made it happen, getting me within 100 yards of a fine axis buck. That opportunity led to a successful harvest and a memory I will always treasure.
After harvesting my axis deer, we also pursued pigs for meat, and I was fortunate to harvest one during my last evening. Beyond the harvest, this experience meant a great deal to me. It was the first hunt I had ever been gifted, and the generosity behind it opened the door to an opportunity I might otherwise never have had.
Honoring a Legacy of Service
Kyle Tripp served on active duty in the U.S. Army from February 2004 through June 2024, completing repeated deployments and earning numerous military honors, including the Bronze Star, three Meritorious Service Medals, Ranger Tab, five Army Commendation Medals and Combat Infantryman Badge.
His service to others continued after his military career. In 2025, when a natural disaster affected tribes in Alaska, Kyle arranged hunts to help provide food to communities in need.
The SCIF Combat Veterans Hunt, provided through SCI Foundation’s Veterans Committee, is specifically dedicated to those who served in combat. Combat veterans interested in applying for the program can submit an application by November 1, 2026.
Thank you, Kyle, for your service, and thank you to Union Hill Ranch for helping SCI Foundation honor those who have sacrificed for our freedoms.
