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HCC Veterans Participating in National Bike Ride

From May 28 to July 28, a group of wounded warriors from America’s military will ride bicycles, hand cycles and recumbent cycles from the Pacific Ocean to the Atlantic Ocean. Two Heartland Community College students are participating in the event.

Air Force veteran Andrew Jansen is participating in the Sea to Shining Sea ride on behalf of those who cannot. A good friend of Andrew’s, SSgt Travis Griffin, was killed in Afghanistan in 2006. In his honor, Andrew is dedicating his ride to Travis and to all other soldiers, sailors, and airmen who "paid the ultimate sacrifice for my freedoms." Serving as a military Security Forces Law Enforcement professional for four years until 2006, Andrew was seriously injured in a truck accident and continues to suffer from PTSD, owing to situations his job required.

John Malkin served with the Navy Seabees. During his term in the service, John was severely injured, receiving multiple concussions. Following his accident, he spent seven days in intensive care. An injury to his right frontal lobe caused amnesia, depression and sleep disorders. When John is not riding, he is a member of the Abnormal Brewing Club/Company. He was voted as the most inspiring student, owing to his decision to go back to school for a higher education.

For more information about the Sea to Shining Sea ride, visit http://www.s2ssbikeride.org. You may also follow their journey on Facebook.