Matt Spang

Matt Spang served in the United States Army for more than seven years as a Combat Engineer (12 Bravo), dedicating his life to serving his country through deployments to both Iraq and Afghanistan. His role placed him in some of the most dangerous environments of war, where he was responsible for route clearance missions and helping keep roads safe for fellow service members. During his deployments, Matt survived multiple IED explosions, including several in Afghanistan while operating in Helmand Province out of Camp Leatherneck. On December 7, 2011, he sustained life-changing injuries that resulted in the loss of both legs below the knee, along with traumatic brain injuries and PTSD. For his sacrifice and bravery, Matt was awarded two Purple Hearts.

While his injuries changed the course of his life, they did not change his mindset. Matt continues to approach each day with strength, determination, and gratitude. Through the generosity of USAA and the NABC Recycled Rides Program, he received a 2023 GMC Sierra Denali 2500 equipped with adaptive hand controls and an ANT Lift. The truck has become an important part of his independence, giving him safe and dependable transportation for everyday life.

Since receiving the vehicle, Matt says it has “helped every day.” Whether it is running errands, traveling with his family, or simply knowing he has a reliable truck to count on, the impact has been immediate. “It’s kind of nice to have something that I can depend on,” he shared. That peace of mind has made a difference not only physically, but mentally as well. He explained that having a dependable vehicle means less stress and fewer daily worries. “I don’t have to worry as much on a daily basis,” he said.

The truck has also allowed Matt to stay deeply involved in the sports and activities that have played a major role in his recovery. He participates in sled hockey, wheelchair basketball, wheelchair pickleball, and golf. He has used the truck to tow trailers for his sled hockey team, transport sports chairs and equipment, and travel to practices and tournaments with confidence. Reflecting on towing with the new truck, Matt said it was “so simple” and that he could “just pull up, grab the trailer, and go.” That level of dependability has allowed him to focus less on limitations and more on enjoying the moment.

Golf has become especially meaningful in Matt’s journey. “Golf has helped me a lot with my therapy,” he said. Walking hills, navigating uneven ground, and staying active on the course has strengthened him physically while also helping mentally. As someone who has played golf his whole life, being able to continue the sport is something he deeply values.“I’m just happy that I can still golf,” he shared.

Beyond sports, the truck has created opportunities for family life and everyday tasks. From taking his children to practices and out-of-town events to yard work and home projects, the added space, towing power, and reliability have made life easier for everyone in his household. Matt explained that organizations like Freedom Mobility Foundation help more than just the veteran. “It kind of helps everybody, not just a veteran, but their family members as well and their kids.”

Another major milestone for Matt has been learning to use hand controls for the first time. Though he had never driven with them before, he quickly realized how valuable they are. He even shared that he wishes he had made the switch sooner, saying he “definitely should have gotten it a long time ago.” Having adaptive controls means he can drive comfortably even on days when he is not wearing his prosthetics, giving him another level of independence and flexibility.

When asked what freedom means to him now, Matt reflected on how much bigger that word has become. Freedom now means being able to support his family, help his teammates, travel confidently, and continue doing what he loves. It means knowing that life after injury is still full of purpose and possibility.

Matt’s journey is a powerful reminder that setbacks do not define a person. Despite everything he has faced, he continues to build a life centered around family, competition, and giving back to those around him. From supporting teammates to staying active in the sports he loves, Matt proves that new opportunities can still grow from life’s hardest moments.