The washable and reusable, oil free, design of AEM Dryflow air filters, as well as an integrated air filter service minder, helps save Team Overland time and money on maintenance |
Team Overland provides guided overland expeditions to veterans seeking a healthy, natural, outlet to manage the challenges of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) |
Team Overland, a newly formed nonprofit organization based out of Medford, Oregon, is focused on aiding returning military veterans coping with the challenges of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Team Overland provides guided overland expeditions to veterans seeking a healthy, natural, outlet to manage stress. Matthew Havniear, founder and CEO of Team Overland, knows firsthand what it’s like to return from military combat to civilian life, only to feel disconnected and alone. Matthew served with the 2nd Battalion 7th Marines Fox Company Weapons stationed at the U.S. Marine Corps base in 29 Palms, California. In 2008 he was deployed to Now Zad, Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Matthew and his company found themselves in heavy firefights daily during his time in Afghanistan and in 2010 Matthew was diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress, Traumatic Brain Injury, and Post-Concussion Syndrome.
Upon his return, Matthew struggled to deal with symptoms brought on by post-traumatic stress and searched for healthy alternatives outside of what was being offered by doctors and clinics. Matthew soon discovered a passion for volunteer work and he decided to combine his passion for nonprofit service work with his love for the outdoors. “We impact veterans’ lives by helping them tackle personal challenges,” said Havniear. “We encourage members to positively manage their stress by providing healthy social environments and implementing activities that improve cognitive skills, inspire team members, and assist with veteran reintegration. On the trail we work as a team to overcome obstacles and reach our destinations.”
Team Overland’s recent adventure in healing consisted of helping a WIA Marine Corps Vet named Jed Morgan to the 7,500’ summit of Dutchman’s Peak in Oregon’s Siskiyou National Forest |
Retired Marine Matthew Havniear, also founder and CEO of Team Overland, knows firsthand what it’s like to return from military combat to civilian life, only to feel disconnected and alone |
Leading these overland adventure trips for veterans requires a serious amount of gear, supplies, and even vehicle maintenance to keep the expeditions running smoothly. Matthew Havniear reached out to AEM® Induction Systems looking for help to properly outfit his 2012 Chevrolet Silverado 5.3L V8 which he uses, along with two other vehicles, to lead Team Overland expeditions. It was determined that AEM cold air intake, number 21-8030DC, would serve Matthew and the other team members very well. Besides increasing horsepower, which is needed to help the team’s fully loaded Silverado cross rugged terrain, the rotationally molded enclosed air box and oversized AEM Dryflow® Air Filter provide the engine with protection even in tough environments. The washable and reusable, oil free, design of AEM Dryflow air filters, as well as the integrated air filter service minder, will help save Matthew time and money on maintenance.
One of Team Overland’s recent adventures in healing consisted of helping a Wounded In Action (WIA) Marine Corps Vet named Jed Morgan to the 7,500’ summit of Dutchman’s Peak fire lookout in Oregon’s Siskiyou National Forest. After high school Jed enlisted in the Marines and found himself assigned to the First Battalion, Seventh Marines stationed out of 29 Palms, California. One day, after three months of foot patrols in the “Brown Zone” of Sangin Province in Afghanistan, Jed and his company came to a rest at the top of a hill. As a 249 SAW gunner, Jed needed to find a position to maximize his effectiveness if the company came under attack. As Jed settled into position a sudden flash of light knocked him on his back and left him with indescribable pain. Jed accidently triggered an improvised explosive device (IED) which took both legs and knees while also severing the ulna nerve in his right arm.
Team Overland has gained national interest, securing sponsorship from many companies, including AEM |
After many surgeries Jed Morgan has been fitted with prosthetics and is learning to use them on level ground as well as in all other aspects of daily life |
After many surgeries Jed has been fitted with prosthetics and is learning to use them on level ground as well as in all other aspects of daily life. Through therapy he has regained some strength in his right arm, about enough to pick up a pencil, and recovered from a blood clot in his lungs. Like Matthew, Jed hopes to help other amputees once he has regained his own capabilities. Jed has started his own business, Guardian Enterprises in Medford, Oregon, and with his good friend and fellow Marine, they are determined to make it succeed.
Team Overland has quickly gained interest on a national level. While they have been able to secure sponsorship from many generous companies, including AEM Intakes, there is still a lot the organization needs to continue. Team Overland is hopeful that more companies will embrace the team’s goal of healing and help them to continue their adventures. To learn more about volunteering, donating, or joining Team Overland, visit their website TeamOverland.org. You can also find Team Overland on Facebook and Twitter. |
