D3O Supports Veterans Charity The Dirt Therapy Project to Aid Military Homecoming Through Mountain Biking

Founded by Jonathan Hagerman, a former U.S. Marine Corps utility engineer who served in on Active Duty from 2009–2013, The Dirt Therapy Project (TDTP) is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting Veterans’ mental health by getting them outdoors, building connections, and rediscovering a sense of belonging. The group operates under the Veterans Future Foundation and has become a lifeline for many former service members facing post-deployment challenges. 

“We’ve heard countless veterans say that mountain biking has saved their lives,” said Jonathan Hagerman, Founder of The Dirt Therapy Project. “It’s more than a sport, it’s a way to reconnect, to talk, to push through fear and stress, and to find purpose again. Having partners like D3O and Delta Three Oscar supporting this mission shows these veterans that people truly care about their homecoming and their well-being.” 

This year’s Veterans Day Ride, held at Lake Leatherwood in Northwest Arkansas, brought together veterans from across the region for a day of riding, community, and conversation. D3O and Delta Three Oscar supported the event by providing bike shuttles for attendees, and by teaming up with their partners Troy Lee Designs and ODI Grips, who gifted D3O protective gear and anti-vibration bike grips to participating veterans. 

D3O’s involvement reflects the company’s long-standing commitment to support the homecoming. Delta Three Oscar, provides military and law enforcement professionals with advanced personal protective equipment including ballistic-grade foams, light-weight ballistic HALO™ helmet pad systems, and flexible impact resistant limb protectors engineered to help protect military and law enforcement in the most extreme conditions. 

“Partnering with The Dirt Therapy Project on this event has been a real privilege,” said Stuart Sawyer, CEO of D3O. “At Delta Three Oscar, our mission is to protect and support those who serve, and this partnership extends that commitment to support their homecoming. Seeing how mountain biking helps veterans reconnect, regain confidence, and find a sense of belonging is truly inspiring.” 

Veterans interviewed during the event spoke candidly about how mountain biking has helped them manage post-deployment stress, overcome depression, and rediscover joy and confidence. Many described it as a “pressure release valve” a way to channel adrenaline, find focus, and share experiences with others who understand the challenges of military life. 

A short film documenting the Veterans Day Ride and featuring interviews with participants is available here to be watched and shared.  

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For any further information, images of interview requests please contact 

Serena Thynne, Global Head of PR at D3O 

Serena.Thynne@D3O.com   

About D3O 

D3O® is the global leader in protection against impact, shock and vibration. Working with world-class brands including Formula 1 teams, adidas, the U.S. Department of Defense, and NASA, D3O provides protective solutions across multiple industries, from sports and motorcycling to defense and electronics. D3O partners with leading sports, mountain bike and motorcycle brands including CCM, Adidas, Harley Davidson, Oakley, Fox, Troy Lee Designs, ODI, Belstaff, Shutt, and Triumph. The company recently trademarked the colour orange for the exclusive use in protection for motorcycle gear, reinforcing its position as the industry’s most trusted ingredient brand. 

About Delta Three Oscar 

Delta Three Oscar is the ballistic arm of D3O, the world’s leading protection brand.  Delta Three Oscar is your frontline defense against blunt force impact and fatigue.  Trusted tactical products for law enforcement and military, our range includes cutting-edge helmet liners, body protection and footwear.  Delta Three Oscar provides a subconscious advantage to people who lead active lifestyles and serve their country because fear and fatigue can be mitigated with innovation.  

About The Dirt Therapy Project

The Dirt Therapy Project (TDTP) is a program of the Veterans Future Foundation dedicated to helping Veterans rediscover purpose, community, and wellness through mountain biking and outdoor adventure. Founded by Veterans for Veterans, TDTP provides a supportive environment where service members can connect, heal, and grow beyond the uniform. Through group rides, skills clinics, and outdoor retreats, The Dirt Therapy Project harnesses the power of nature and camaraderie to improve mental health and strengthen the Veteran community nationwide.