FORT KNOX, Ky. — Being part of the eighth generation of military personnel in her family, Cadet Juniper Huggard, has big shoes to fill. 

Her family’s extensive military history includes her grandfather and great-grandfather, who both served in Vietnam; her father, Command Sgt. Maj. Travis Huggard, who is going on 30 years of service; and her brothers, one preparing for Green Beret training and another in artillery. 

“My dad is my biggest inspiration when it comes to the military. He has guided me every step of the way,” Juniper said “He taught me NCO and Army values like loyalty, respect, integrity and honor.”

Growing up, Juniper’s childhood looked different than most kids her age.

She went 18 years without a phone or social media. She was raised in a household where the kids stayed outside until the streetlights came on, finding new ways to entertain themselves. They often played airsoft capture the flag on sunny days, but she was also found reading when thunderstorms rolled in. 

As she got older, she became involved in sports, running track, playing volleyball, and participating in archery and air rifle. She even recalls having a Brave-themed birthday party, where she set up an archery range. 

Her love for the outdoors and staying aligned with the military values she was raised on, so she joined JROTC in high school, certain of her path toward becoming an Army officer. During her senior year, she taught 58 eighth-grade students as part of her JROTC program. 

“When I was younger, I tried to take as many leadership roles as possible,” Juniper said. “I am always putting myself in positions where I can help other people succeed and be a better version of themselves.”

Throughout high school, she excelled as a cadet, earning a four-year national ROTC scholarship and continuing her education at Kansas State University. 

During her sophomore year, she had the opportunity to attend Cadet Summer Training as Opposing Forces in various training lanes. Spending about 40 days on the other side of CST gave her a new perspective on what awaited her as a cadet attending Advanced Camp. 

Now, in the heat of July on Fort Knox, Juniper continues to put one foot in front of the other while encouraging those around her to do the same. 

“You have to make the most of what you got. People don’t get to do this everyday,” Juniper said. “Pain is temporary … You just have to keep moving forward.”

With her goals and family heritage in mind, she approaches every challenge with determination and a commitment to seeing it through.

Juniper hopes to pursue a career as a Judge Advocate General Officer. She aims to graduate and commission, becoming the first woman in her family to earn the rank of second lieutenant in the Army.