Breathing Life Into Every Note: Air Force Veteran Sings to Recovery

Belisle, who traveled from Tomah, Wisconsin, to perform as a vocalist in the 2025 National Veterans Creative Arts Festival (NVCAF), is a two-time participant and multi-medal winner. His smooth vocals and heartfelt performances are impressive, but it’s the story behind the music that resonates most deeply.

“I got back into singing again about six years ago when I was working as a recreation assistant at the Tomah VA,” said Belisle. “They asked me to help with music therapy programming. I hadn’t sung since high school—All-State Choir back then—and I always regretted letting it go. That assignment changed my life.”

Belisle’s role at the VA wasn’t just a job—it was a mission. Working in recreational therapy, he saw firsthand how creative expression could help Veterans reconnect with joy, purpose, and each other. But in late 2021, he experienced that healing power on a much more personal level.

“I was working in the Community Living Center (CLC) units during the height of COVID. We were some of the only staff allowed on the units during lockdown,” he recalled. 

“Despite taking every precaution, I got hit hard. They called it COVID pneumonia. I was in the hospital for 14 days—my O2 levels were under 80%. Later I read in my discharge summary, ‘Mr. Belisle survived.’ That really hit me.”

Recovery wasn’t easy. Still mourning the recent loss of his wife and battling lingering lung issues, Belisle was determined not to let his spirit fade. With an oxygen tank in tow and the support of his fellow Veterans, he returned to weekly jam sessions at the VA.

“I’d crank my oxygen up so I could sing for two minutes,” he laughed. “It hurt, but it worked. My PA told me I bounced back faster than most. I credit the singing—it exercised my lungs and helped me heal mentally too.”

Now retired, Belisle continues to volunteer at the VA assisting Tomah’s music therapist and helping fellow Veterans discover their own creative outlets. Their weekly jam sessions have become a haven for connection and recovery.

When asked about his experience so far at this year’s event, Belisle responded enthusiastically: 

“The Creative Arts Festival captures the best parts of the military experience—camaraderie, support, shared purpose,” he said. “It doesn’t matter your skill level. You’re accepted here. It’s not about winning—just participating can change your life.”

Belisle encourages any Veteran considering the arts to take that first step.

“You don’t have to be perfect. Just show up. Try something new. You’ll find support, purpose, and a whole community rooting for you.”

As he takes the stage this week, Belisle isn’t just singing—he’s leading by example. His voice, forged through hardship and healing, is now lifting others toward their own recovery.

The National Veterans Creative Arts Festival is more than a showcase—it’s a celebration of the healing power of the arts and the resilience of those who served.