Lebanon — For members of the armed forces coming home after deploying to a combat zone, going back to everyday life can be difficult.

A new group has been started to help ease that process. The Lebanon chapter of the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association will hold its next meeting on April 15, at 11 a.m., at American Legion Post 22 on Mechanic Street.

“The transition can be very hard,” said Scott Botelho, the public relations officer for the chapter, in an email. “Being around like-minded people like us makes it easier. Having the love and passion of motorcycles makes it all come together.”

Before forming the Lebanon chapter, many of the members were part of the Laconia chapter, Botelho said. It made sense to start a chapter that was closer to home.

Members have served in Vietnam, Bosnia, Iraq and Afghanistan, among other places. 

“There are a lot of veterans here in the Upper Valley that need help,” Botelho said. “That’s where we come in.”

All money raised through events will directly support local veterans in need and local veterans organizations, Botelho said. A pancake breakfast will be held on April 22 from 7-10 a.m. at the American Legion in Lebanon. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children under 12.

While combat veterans are the only full members, others are also welcome. Spouses, widows and widowers can join as auxiliary members; non-combat military veterans can join as support members. Potential members should have some motorcycle riding experience, particularly “in a pack in staggered formation,” Botelho said.

For more information, visit cvmauppervalley.com. 

— Staff report