Purple Heart Recipient & Purple Can-Am Rider
Meet Mr. Zeferino John Madrigal III, United States Army Veteran and Purple Heart Recipient. Mr. Madrigal served in combat during Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan, where he was wounded in action. His most proud accomplishment is earning the Purple Heart for his sacrifice which has driven him to dedicate his life to serving both his country and his community.
Mr. Madrigal is currently serving as the Senior Vice Commander of the Department of California, Military Order of the Purple Heart, and Commander of Chapter 210 in Los Angeles and Orange Counties.
His passionate leadership has resulted in the outreach and expansion of Chapter 210’s membership and partnerships with cities, schools, and organizations to honor combat-wounded veterans through Purple Heart City designations. Mr. Madrigal shines at community events, and enjoys directing pinpoint support to veterans and their families.
Mr. Madrigal has created his own method of therapy through riding his Can-Am, which isn’t just a hobby — it’s a custom purple magnet in the community.
After combat and the great challenges he has overcome, he has learned the importance of finding healthy outlets that bring focus, calming peace of mind, and resilience into his life.
Madrigal shares, “When I ride, I feel a sense of freedom and control that often gets lost in the day-to-day weight of military memories and stress. The road opens up, the wind hits my face, and the constant noise in my head slows down. Each ride reminds me that I am still here, still moving forward, and still able to enjoy life. Riding the Can-Am gives me the chance to connect with fellow veterans and community members who share the same love of the road. That connection helps break isolation. Riding is my way of proving to myself — and to others — that healing is possible. The Can-Am has become more than a machine; it’s a tool that helps me manage stress, reclaim joy, and live with purpose.”
Professionally, Mr. Madrigal is the founder and CEO of Pyramid Interiors Inc., a construction and interiors company that operates with the same principles of discipline, teamwork, and integrity that defined his military service.
Most notably, Mr. Madrigal uplifts others through important initiatives that preserve the legacy of America’s combat-wounded heroes while building bridges between veterans, first responders, and the wider community.
