A group of veterans were honored for building a world class motorcycle. They are a part of Motorcycle Missions, a non-profit organization which helps those suffering from PTSD work through their struggles by building bikes from the ground up.
The non-profit organization took home first place at the J&P Cycles Ultimate Builder Custom Bike Show in Chicago, and since not many were able to attend, a special awards ceremony took place at Cowboy Harley Davidson on Saturday in south Austin.
Alba Melgar returned from Afghanistan in April 2017 and said reintegrating into society has been tough.
“I like to spend more time alone. I prefer to stay away from social events, but Motorcycle Missions really allowed me to get comfortable to be around more people and get comfortable with it,” said Melgar.
Other veterans who participated said the experience has also changed their lives for the better.
“I’ve realized that and have been getting out of the shop more, been hanging out with my brothers, having fun and it’s really helped me a lot,” said David Roy, a veteran.
The founder of Motorcycle Missions Krystal Hess said a total of eight men and women built the award winning bike over the course of three months. In the competition, Motorcycle Missions also received $10,000 in cash and prizes.
Motorcycle Missions veterans said the non-profit has made them happy and productive members of society again. They encourage others suffering from PTSD to seek the organization out, too.