With your support, MusicWorks4Veterans can continue creating opportunities for veterans like Wayne to rediscover hope, creativity, and community through music.​​​

Army Veteran Wayne’s Journey: Rediscovering Connection and Healing Through Music 

MusicWorks4Veterans’ “Music Night” brings veterans together to connect, create, and heal through the power of music. For Wayne, a veteran who had spent years withdrawn and avoiding social events, this program became the start of an incredible transformation.

 

During one Music Night at the Washington Soldiers Home, Wayne shared with John Selzler, the program’s founder, that he had written song lyrics many years ago but lost the page during a move. He admitted that he never had the chance to put music to them and thought they might be forgotten. Inspired by Wayne’s story, John asked if he still dreamed of completing the song. When Wayne said yes, John encouraged him to see it as a fun memory exercise, explaining that he might recall more than he realized once he began.

 

Over the next few months, John made special visits to check on Wayne’s progress, offering encouragement and support. Then, one evening, Wayne surprised him by handing over a completed version of his lyrics, titled “Just A Cowboy.” John was thrilled and quickly composed music to accompany the song. When Wayne heard the completed version for the first time, his pride and excitement were unmistakable.

 

From that moment, Wayne began attending Music Nights regularly—something he had never done before. He grew more open to participating in music and connecting with others, finding a sense of purpose and belonging within the veteran community. “Just A Cowboy” became a favorite among his peers and staff, and the song went on to win Blue Ribbon honors in the VA’s National Veteran's Creative Arts Festival at the state level.

 

Performing his song alongside the MusicWorks4Veterans Band brought Wayne immense joy. He took the microphone with pride, his voice strong and his confidence shining through. Wayne’s journey—from losing his lyrics to rediscovering them and seeing his song brought to life—remains a powerful testament to the healing power of music.

 

Though Wayne has since passed, his legacy lives on. “Just A Cowboy” continues to be performed at MusicWorks4Veterans events, ensuring his story and voice are never forgotten. Wayne’s experience is a beautiful reminder of how music can rekindle old dreams, foster connection, and help veterans heal.