OUR OBJECTIVES
Our objectives are to help and support those who have given so much to protect our communities and our nation. Knees in the Breeze Foundation is dedicated to providing emotional and financial support to military veterans and first responders who are battling Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Anxiety, and Moral Injury. Through motorcycle group rides, weekend retreats, in-person seminars, direct support, and charitable donations, we aim to reconnect these heroes with a sense of purpose, belonging, and healing. These programs not only create meaningful experiences but also build lasting bonds that help reduce isolation and emotional stress.
Meet the Team
Mike “Dunkel” Dalske
Co-Founder & President
Mike “Dunkel” Dalske: After spending 11 years in the US Army, Mike left the service and started a career in federal law enforcement, where he retired 21 years later. Mike’s full-time job now is supporting and promoting the Knees in the Breeze Foundation as its cofounder. He is currently living with his family in Pennsylvania, volunteering for various veterans’ groups and riding his Harley Davidson Road Glide as often as he can. Being a cofounder of the Knees in the Breeze Foundation has afforded him the opportunity to combine two things he enjoys: riding motorcycles and helping to promote better mental well-being.
Jason "Panda" Appleton
Co-Founder, Vice President & Treasure
Jason "Panda" Appleton: Jason served 22+ years with the United States Army in multiple positions in the U.S., overseas and deployments. Since retiring, he has moved back to PA to dedicate his time to starting Knees in the Breeze Foundation and volunteering with other charitable organizations. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his family, German Shepherd "Max", and of course riding his 2024 Harley Davidson Road Glide.
Mike "Landlocked" Hellyer
Secretary
Michael served 5½ years in the United States Navy as a Master-At-Arms, laying the foundation for a lifelong commitment to protecting and supporting others. After completing his military service, he transitioned into the pharmaceutical industry, where he now works as an Operations Manager.
Michael recently retired after an incredible 28 years as a volunteer firefighter, dedicating nearly three decades to safeguarding his local community. Outside of work, he spends as much time as possible with his family. He is also actively involved in multiple veterans’ organizations and never misses an opportunity to ride his Harley-Davidson Street Glide.
Proud to be part of the Knees in the Breeze Foundation, Michael is always ready to support Veterans and First Responders in any way he can.
Keith "Headache" Souder
Board Member
Keith "Headache" Souder: Keith is a Desert Storm veteran while serving 8 years in the US Navy. Keith is currently continuing as a volunteer firefighter for over 40 years, serving in positions from Secretary, Trustee, and President on their Boards. Keith has a passion for serving his community and giving back. He currently works with veterans at the South East Veterans Center in Spring City, PA. In his free time, he loves riding his Harley Davidson 2024 Ultra Limited.
Spencer Robinson
Board Member
Spencer Robinson: Spencer brings over two decades experience in law enforcement as a State Trooper, Major Crimes Detective, SWAT officer and Patrol Sergeant to the team. He has a combined 22 years of service in the US Army; with 5 years active-duty service and 17 years served in the US Army Reserves. Spencer lives with his family in the great state of Texas where he spends his time doing things he is passionate about which includes cattle ranching, performance horses and helping veterans and first responders through KITB Foundation.
Marshal Davis
Counsel
Marshal Davis: Marshal is a licensed attorney in PA and NJ and serves as chief legal counsel to businesses and nonprofit clients. Mr. Marshal's primary practice areas include business law, commercial transactions, nonprofit law, tax-exempt entities, real estate tax assessment appeals, and corporate law. He previously served as an instructor at Temple University’s James E. Beasley School of Law, teaching the JD-level Nonprofit Corporations course. Outside the office, he enjoys spending time with his wife and three children and coaches fencing at Liberty Fencing Club LLC in Warrington, Bucks County Pennsylvania.
Austin Bregman
Accountant
Austin Bregman: Austin is a CPA and MBA who resides outside Nashville TN. Austin started his career in public accounting where he brought multiple companies public and helped build an accounting department in southern India. Austin has since transitioned to a financial reporting role for a multibillion-dollar company. In his free time Austin enjoys traveling, spending time with his dog (Khaleesi), drinking bourbon, and working out.
History
- Mike Dalske and Jason Appleton served in the military, met in 2023 while joining the same motorcycle association, discovered they both have and continue to deal with PTSD. It turned out riding motorcycles has helped both of them to cope with the mental side effects of PTSD. After some discussions they decided to take a chance on helping others with what has helped them, riding motorcycles.
- In February 2025, the Articles of Incorporation for PA were established and the 501(c)3 Non-Profit paperwork was submitted to the IRS.
- In March 2025 KITB Foundation received the Determination Letter and 501(c)3 Non-Profit status.
- April-December 2025 coordination between non-profits, business, veterans, merchants, etc. to get started (on-going process).
- June-July 2025, Mike and Jason journeyed on a Self-Funded Ride across the 48 continental states to raise money for their VFW.
- 20 October 2025, Initial Board Meeting for Knees in the Breeze Foundation.






