City Council honors veteran artist Les Fordahl's service and advocacy
The Bloomington City Council held a "Notable Neighbor" recognition event on November 6 to honor Les Fordahl, a Vietnam War combat artist whose work is preserved in the Library of Congress and who has dedicated years to helping fellow veterans through art therapy.
Fordahl served as a combat artist in the 221st Combat Art Division during the Vietnam War, where he documented the conflict through sketches and paintings. His extensive collection from that period is now housed in the Library of Congress archives, preserving an important historical record of the war.
Beyond his military service, Fordahl has become an advocate for veterans' issues in Bloomington. He pointed out that the city currently lacks a dedicated veterans' memorial—a gap he believes should be addressed to properly honor those who have served. His advocacy stems partly from his volunteer work at the VA Adult Daycare Center on Cedar Avenue, where he spent five years teaching arts and crafts to veterans living with brain injuries.
Fordahl emphasized the therapeutic value of art for veterans struggling with PTSD and other service-related challenges. Through his teaching, he has witnessed firsthand how creative expression can help veterans heal and reconnect with their communities. When not focused on veterans' issues, Fordahl remains committed to promoting arts education more broadly, encouraging students to explore the diverse fields within the arts and using his skills to help educate and inspire others.
The recognition reflects Bloomington's appreciation for residents who contribute meaningfully to their community. Fordahl's work—from documenting history during wartime to supporting veterans in their recovery—demonstrates a lifelong commitment to service and creative expression. His advocacy for a local veterans' memorial may prompt city officials to consider how Bloomington can better commemorate those who have served.
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Other Topics from This Document
Advocacy for a Bloomington Veterans' Memorial and Art's Therapeutic Role
Promoting Arts Education and Community Engagement
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