For one Brooklyn boxer with deep military ties, service is a part of life.

Boyd Melson is part of a military family. His parents and siblings all have served.

When Melson went to West Point in June of 1999, his call of duty was clear. But life had other plans. Melson was soon introduced to the world of boxing.

Melson began competing internationally as part of the Army's World Class Athlete program. Boxing brought fame, but it kept Melson from active duty, something that weighed heavily on him.

In 2008, Melson started his career in the U.S. Army Reserve. When his tour ended in 2011, Melson stayed on as a reservist because he wanted to do more for his country.

He did this all while continuing his other callings in life. The pro-boxer's winnings went to spinal cord research. Melson also volunteers his time with recovering drug addicts, providing free boxing lessons on the weekends.

Melson is now set to do another tour and is expected to return home to the United States later this year.