Air Force Veteran Patrick Sargent Uses Art To Heal — And Help Fellow Veterans Do The Same

Whether it’s serving as a military officer or stepping up as a first responder, it takes a rare combination of dedication, resilience and heart to take on these roles. And for many of these individuals, that same drive carries over into life beyond the badge.

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At American Legion Post 139 in Arlington, VA, retired Air Force veteran Patrick Sargent is turning personal healing into a shared experience. Over Memorial Day weekend, Sargent’s artwork was featured in a special exhibit hosted in collaboration with George Mason University’s “Arts & the Military” program — a showcase reported by ARLnow that highlighted the power of storytelling through creativity.

Sargent, who served in the Air Force for over two decades, uses art as a way to process the emotional weight of military life, something many veterans carry silently. His work explores themes like trauma, reintegration and personal identity, encouraging others to confront their own struggles in safe, constructive ways.

But Sargent isn’t just creating for himself — he’s part of a growing community of veteran artists committed to helping others find their voice. By participating in exhibits like this one, he brings visibility to post-service mental health challenges and helps normalize emotional expression among veterans. His message is clear: healing can happen in unexpected ways, and no one has to do it alone.

Want to know more? Learn more about American Legion Post 139, or read about the exhibit via ARLnow.

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