Robert Irvine Foundation
Bill Beliles
First Responder
Bill Beliles served eight years in the United States Coast Guard as a Damage Controlman Second Class Petty Officer. During his service, he earned the Good Conduct Medal, the Meritorious Unit Commendation, and the National Defense Service Medal—recognition of his dedication, professionalism, and commitment to excellence.
After completing his military service, Bill discovered a passion for helping others that led him to join the Wilmington Fire Department. For nearly eight years, he has served the department with distinction, achieving the rank of Engineer. He is also a valued member of the Technical Rescue Team and North Carolina Task Force 11, responding to some of the most complex and high-risk emergencies in the region.
Throughout his career as a firefighter, Bill has been on the front lines of countless accidents, disasters, and scenes of unimaginable trauma. These experiences, while part of the job, have left a lasting impact. In his own community, certain places can trigger difficult flashbacks to the calls he’s answered.
Wellness Program _
Service Dog Milo Recipient
Serving with Courage, Healing with Heart
In the fall of 2024, Bill met Milo, a service dog who is now nearing the completion of their training together. Milo is trained to provide critical support—maintaining focus in loud or crowded places, anchoring Bill during moments of anxiety, interrupting negative behaviors, and even performing nightmare interruption when needed.
Milo will be dual-certified as both a Psychiatric Service Dog for Bill and a Crisis Response Dog for the Wilmington Fire Department. Together, they will play a vital role in the department’s Mental Health and Wellness Program—helping de-escalate stress after calls, easing tension in the station, lowering anxiety, reducing the long-term effects of PTSD, and even improving cardiovascular health. Milo will also provide Animal Assisted Intervention during emergencies, both within the department and out in the community, helping to comfort and calm individuals affected by trauma.
Bill and Milo are more than a team—they are a bridge between service and healing, resilience and recovery. With their skills, heart, and dedication, there is no limit to the positive impact they will make in the years ahead.