Subscribe!
RI Veterans: Did you know? 20.07.23 (Travel, Disney discounts, events…) – John A. Cianci
by John A. Cianci, contributing writer on veterans’ issues
Did you know Disney offers a discounted 4-Day or 5-Day Disney Military Salute Ticket for members of the Armed Forces, eligible veterans, and primary caregivers? (see article below for details)
Did you know the AFRC has a resort, “Shades of Green Resort” –https://www.shadesofgreen.org located on Disney in Florida?
Did you know if you book at Shades of Green Resort , you can also book rooms for other members of your family and/or friends who are not eligible to book on their own?
Did you know veterans with VA documented service-connected disabilities rating, and primary caregivers are eligible for Armed Forces Resorts, members of armed forces, caregivers? (see details in article on Disabled Veterans Equal Act of 2018)
Did you know AFRC has a hotel in Hawaii, Hale Koa, located in Hawaii? https://www.halekoa.com ?
Did you know AFRC has a hotel in Hawaii, Seoul, S. Korea? https://www.dragonhilllodge.com/#book-now-submit
Did you know AFRC in Germany, Edelweiss? https://www.edelweisslodgeandresort.com
Did you know DOD has one online site, https://www.dodlodging.net, listing of all campgrounds and hotels operated by DOD organizations throughout the United States and the world?
VETTIP: Example, I search the site for campgrounds and discover a campground located in Maine, Great Pond Outdoor Adventure Center. The site has cabins, yurts, Tiny House and RV sites. Interested, I call 207-584-2000 to find out if I am eligible as a veteran/retired member of the Guard/Reserve.
In Rhode Island, Carr Point RV Park, Newport RI has 30 RV spaces. (401) 841-2904. Also, on base, the Newport NS 1-877-NAVY-Bed
More information on travel and discounted theme park tickets for veterans, primary caregivers, and members of the Armed forces:
Military and Veteran Travel Benefits Operated by Armed Forces Recreational Centers (AFRC), Department of Defense (DOD)
So many hidden and unknown veterans are unaware of, especially opportunities offered for vacationing.
One feature I always valued when using one of the hotels or resorts, is the outstanding customer service by the employees and the sense of the security I had staying at the facilities. Moreover, many, if not all, were prior members of the military and or spouses of military members serving on active duty.
From my own experiences staying at DOD properties operated at Shades of Green, Hale Koa, and Navy Lodge on Staten Island and Key West, vacations with family and friends provided affordability and lifetime memories.
On my radar for future vacations, this resource – https://www.dodlodging.net – for renting a cabin, Carney Park Lodging Naples, 877-NAVY-BED, and Cuba, Guantanamo Bay, NS, contact number for reservations is 1-877-NAVY-BED.
VETTIP: Use the search feature and type in where you want to go. I typed Cuba, and the search results Guantanamo Bay, NS!
Armed Forces Recreation Centers (AFRC)
The Armed Forces Recreation Centers (AFRC) Resorts serve members of the U.S. Armed Forces, their families, and other authorized users. The AFRCs are Category C Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) activities operated by the U.S. Army as executive agent for Department of Defense (DOD). Army Installation Management Command (IMCOM) G9 directly manages the AFRCs to provide all uniformed services with high-quality, affordable resort-style facilities consistent with the Army’s focus on readiness and quality of life for Service Members and their Families. Personnel eligible to use AFRC guestrooms, food and beverage, recreation, facilities and other guest services are defined below.
Who are eligible for AFRC and DOD operated locations?
Below are the guidelines for users at Hale Koa Hotel and the Shades of Green Resort:
Veterans who are Purple Heart recipients, veterans who are former POWs, all veterans with VA-documented service-connected disability ratings, and individuals assessed, approved, and designated as the Primary Family Caregivers of eligible veterans under the VA Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers are eligible users when identified as follows:
Veterans must present a Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC) indicating at least one of the three acceptable eligibility statuses (PURPLE HEART, FORMER POW, or SERVICE CONNECTED); paired with an acceptable credentials such as a REAL ID-compliant State driver’s license or a U.S. passport.
VETTIP: VHICs are issued to veterans enrolled in VA health care. For information regarding eligibility please visit https://www.va.gov/healthbenefits/vhic/ for the application process.
Primary Family Caregivers must present their letter from the VA Office of Community Care that indicates they are assessed, approved, and designated Primary Family Caregiver of an eligible Veteran under the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers and are eligible for these privileges paired with an acceptable credential like a REAL ID-compliant state driver’s license or a U.S. passport.
Restrictions apply for Disney’s Military Promotional Salute Tickets; Universal Orlando’s Military Promotional Ticket offers and the Stars and Stripes Length of Stay tickets.
To obtain VA forms, go online to https://www.va.gov/health-care
More information on Disabled Veterans Equal Access Act of 2018:
DISABLED VETERANS EQUAL ACCESS ACT 2018
In January 2020 we received new Department of Defense/Army Regulations which expand authorized use at AFRC Resorts to Purple Heart recipients, former prisoners of war (POW), veterans with VA-documented service-connected disability ratings and Primary Family Caregivers of eligible Veterans under the VA Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers.
This expanded authorization currently does not include the Edelweiss Lodge and Resort or Dragon Hill Lodge. The new law is subject to the limitations of applicable host nation law and international agreements that have not been resolved. If there is a change in policy, we will update our website and social media pages.
Below are the guidelines for the new authorized users at Hale Koa Hotel and the Shades of Green Resort:
Veterans who are Purple Heart recipients, veterans who are former POWs, all veterans with VA-documented service-connected disability ratings, and individuals assessed, approved, and designated as the Primary Family Caregivers of eligible veterans under the VA Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers are eligible Shades of Green Resort users when identified as follows:
Veterans must present a Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC) indicating at least one of the three acceptable eligibility statuses (PURPLE HEART, FORMER POW, or SERVICE CONNECTED); or HEC form H623A indicating placement in VA health care priority group 8E paired with an acceptable credential like a REAL ID-compliant State driver’s license or a U.S. passport.
Note: VHICs are issued to veterans enrolled in VA healthcare. Visit: https://www.va.gov/healthbenefits/vhic/ for information regarding eligibility for the VHIC and the application process.
Primary Family Caregivers must present their letter from the VA Office of Community Care that indicates they are assessed, approved, and designated Primary Family Caregiver of an eligible Veteran under the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers and are eligible for these privileges paired with an acceptable credential like a REAL ID-compliant state driver’s license or a U.S. passport.
Restrictions apply for Disney’s Military Promotional Salute Tickets and Universal Orlando’s Military Promotional Ticket offers.
To obtain VA forms, go online to https://www.va.gov/health-care
Discounted Theme Park Tickets
Walt Disney World Resort – Disney Military Salute Ticket
We’re saluting US military personnel by offering Walt Disney World Resort promotional theme park tickets.
Choose between a 4-Day or 5-Day Disney Military Salute Ticket (formerly the Disney Military Promotional Ticket) for visits in 2023.
The following promotional tickets are available for purchase:
5-Day Disney Military Salute Ticket
Purchase now through December 11, 2023.
- With the Park Hopper Option: $369 plus tax
- With the Park Hopper Plus Option: $399 plus tax
4-Day Disney Military Salute Ticket
Purchase now through December 12, 2023.
- With the Park Hopper Option: $349 plus tax
- With the Park Hopper Plus Option: $379 plus tax
Valid Admission Dates
Receive admission for 4 or 5 days, valid for visits January 1, 2023, through December 15, 2023, subject to the following blackout dates:
- April 2, 2023, through April 15, 2023
- November 19, 2023, through November 25, 2023
Park Reservations Required
Both a theme park reservation via the Disney Park Pass system and valid theme park ticket for the same park on the same date are required for each person in your party ages 3 and up. Reservations are limited and subject to availability.
View the park reservation availability calendar.
Add Memory Maker for a Special Price
You can also purchase the Memory Maker product for a special price of $98 through December 15, 2023.
Important Details About the Park Hopper Option
When Guests purchase a ticket with Park Hopper benefits, they will be able to visit more than one park per day after 2:00 PM.
Learn more about the Park Hopper option.
Important Details
- Disney Military Salute Tickets may be purchased at participating US military sales outlets by Eligible Service Members (defined below) or their spouse (but not both), for use by themselves and family members and friends, as provided herein. These Tickets may not be otherwise transferred, distributed or resold.
- “Eligible Service Members” are active or retired members of the US Military, including the National Guard, Reservists, the US Coast Guard, the US Space Force, the Commissioned Corps of the Public Health Service (PHS), and the Commissioned Corps of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Spouses of Military Service Members also qualify if they are able to present valid and active US Military IDs in the absence of active or retired Military Personnel or Commissioned Corps Members.
- The actual prices charged at the individual US military base ticket offices for Disney Military Salute Tickets may be less than the prices set forth above.
- Participating military sales outlets must require that Eligible Service Members (or their spouse) present valid military identification to purchase Disney Military Salute Tickets.
- Subject to certain exceptions, 4-Day and 5-Day Disney Military Salute Tickets for admission to the Walt Disney World Resort are not valid until activated by the Eligible Services Members (or their spouse) at a Walt Disney World theme park ticket window.
- Tickets and options expire and may not be used after December 15, 2023. Valid military identification will be required for purchase and use.
- No more than six (6) Disney Military Salute Tickets may be purchased by any Eligible Service Member or spouse (regardless of the place of purchase and whether purchased by that person or that person’s spouse). In addition, one (1) of the six (6) Tickets purchased must be used by the Eligible Service Member or his/her spouse.
- Each Disney Military Salute Ticket must be used by the same person on any and all days.
- When Guests purchase a ticket with Park Hopper benefits, they will be able to visit more than one park per day after 2:00 PM.
- Parks, attractions, and offerings subject to availability, closures and change or cancellation without notice.
Important Details – Special Pricing for Eligible Service Members on Memory Maker, a Disney PhotoPass Product at Walt Disney World Resort
- The specially priced Memory Maker product can only be purchased at Walt Disney World theme park ticket windows by Eligible Service Members (defined below) or their spouse.
- “Eligible Service Members” are active or retired members of the US military, including the National Guard, Reservists, the US Coast Guard, the US Space Force, the Commissioned Corps of the Public Health Service (PHS), and the Commissioned Corps of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Valid military identification required for purchase. Spouses of Military Service Members and PHS and NOAA Commissioned Corps members also qualify if they are able to present valid and active US Military IDs in the absence of active or retired Military Personnel or Commissioned Corps members.
- No more than two (2) Memory Maker products may be purchased by an Eligible Service Member or their spouse (but not both).
- Memory Maker includes photos taken during the Memory Maker Window as defined in the Memory Maker Terms and Conditions (generally, photos taken within 30 days from the date of first activation for standard Memory Maker and linked to the Guest’s Disney PhotoPass account).
- A MagicBand, or an eligible mobile device with Bluetooth technology enabled for the My Disney Experience app, is required to receive certain attraction photos and other digital content.
- Photos and other digital content will expire pursuant to the expiration policy.
- Valid theme park admission and park reservation required for certain photo locations.
- Memory Maker is subject to the Memory Maker Terms and Conditions.
- Memory Maker may not be sold or otherwise transferred.
- Downloads are restricted to personal use only.
- May not be combined with other discounts or offers.
- Not responsible for missing, lost or damaged photos. Subject to restrictions and change without notice.
Busch Gardens
Offers for Military Veterans
U.S. Military Veterans, Retirees and Inactive Ready Reservists are eligible to receive exclusive deals on admission. Registration for this offer has ended.
We would like to thank our United States Veterans, Retirees and Inactive Ready Reservists who have served and fought to protect our country. You have made the ultimate commitment and have demonstrated courage through your service, dedication and sacrifice. To show our appreciation, we want to give you quality time with those you love.
Discounted 1-Day Tickets
Veterans can get up to six discounted tickets to Busch Gardens Williamsburg and Water Country USA.
o Offers extend to U.S. Veterans, retirees and Inactive Ready Reservists who have been honorably served
o Former service member must provide proof of service in order to participate
o 1-Day Tickets must be obtained online and redeemed at the park within one year from date of purchase
o Multi-Day Tickets must be obtained online and redeemed at the park within 6 months from date of purchase
Offers for Active Duty Military
Current Service Members receive exclusive deals on admission.
We would like to take a moment to thank the men and women of the United States Armed Forces for their dedication and service. We may not know your personal story or the path you’ve traveled, but we understand the importance of family. To show our appreciation, we want to give you quality time with those you love.
Am I Eligible For These Military Deals?
Any United States Active-Duty Military*, Activated or Drilling Reservist, or National Guardsman currently serving is eligible for our Active-Duty Military offers.
* Includes Army, Marines, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard and Space Force.
How Do I View Them?
These offers are only available online through GovX and cannot be purchased at the park. You will need a valid Active-Duty Military ID when you create your account, and once GovX verifies your status, you will be able to access the exclusive military promotions.
Offers are also available at participating MWR Offices.
Learn more about our Military Pass and Waves of Honor™ program below. Or take a look at some of our most frequently asked questions.
Waves of Honor
The Waves of Honor Program provides military personnel and up to three direct dependents one complimentary admission per year to either SeaWorld®, Busch Gardens® or Sesame Place®. This program is not valid at Water Country USA®, Adventure Island®, Aquatica® water parks or Discovery Cove®.
• Service Members and their direct dependents must have a valid Active-Military ID in order to participate.
• Spouses must log in under the Active-Duty Member’s account in order to take advantage of the dependent tickets.
• Military guests must register online, print tickets and visit Jan. 27 – Oct. 31, 2023.
Note: We do offer up to six discounted tickets to Busch Gardens Williamsburg and/or Water Country USA tickets.
· Discounted 1-Day Tickets
Active-Duty Military can get up to six discounted tickets to Busch Gardens Williamsburg and Water Country USA.
o Offers extend to any United States Active-Duty Military (Army, Marines, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard and Space Force), Activated or Drilling Reservist, or National Guardsman currently serving
o 1-Day Tickets must be obtained online and redeemed at the park within one year from date of purchase
o Multi-Day Tickets must be obtained online and redeemed at the park within 6 months from date of purchase
· Busch Gardens & Water Country USA 2023 Military Pass
We are excited to offer Active-Duty Military and their families this great product. You can enjoy unlimited visits to our theme park, water park and general parking during through Jan. 1, 2024.
What do I get with a Military Pass?
Unlimited Visits
Enjoy unlimited visits to Busch Gardens Williamsburg including Howl-O-Scream, Water Country USA, and Christmas Town™ now thru Jan. 1, 2024. Please see park hours prior to your visit. Please see park hours prior to your visit.
Christmas Event
Celebrate the holidays and New Year with loved ones at Christmas Town.
Free Parking
Get free General Parking at our parks.
___
EVENTS
July 2023
July 29, 2023 – Dinner and comedy Show, VFW Post #183, 172 Washington Street, Warwick RI. Tickets $40 PP includes buffet and show. The show is presented by John Perrotta’s Comedy Factory (veteran owned). For tickets call the VFW at (401) 467-8940.
July 30, 2023, 9:30 a.m. – Cornerstone of Faith Methodist Church, 1081 Main Street, Coventry. Invite to all Korea War Veterans who served during the time. A service to honor all Korean War Veterans and celebrate 70th Year Anniversary of the Armistice. Please RSVP to Janie Deptula, Email ([email protected] or Phone (825-6685). We hope to hear from you.
August 2023
August 4, 2023, Annual RING Reunion, Quonset Officer Club, 11:00am, 200 LT James Brown Rd. North Kingstown RI, Hot buffet, cost per person $37.00. Cut-Off date July 30 i2023. Make checks payable to Bob Antonelli. Mail to: 9 Hurlburt Ave, Johnston, RI 02919. POC: Bob Antonelli; [email protected]/401-837-6028/401-996-3764
August 7, 2023, Monday, Federal Hill Veteran Coffee House (always meet the FIRST Monday of the month), 9-11 am. Roma Ristorante, 310 Atwells Ave, Providence (free parking across the street). Veterans and their guests are invited. Refreshments are available, which include Italian toast, pastries, and calzones. Any questions call Italian American War Veterans of US, (401) 677-9838, email, [email protected]
August 21, 2023, Monday, FREE Luncheon 11:30-1:00 for Veterans and one guest at Perella’s Ristorante. 330 Metacom Ave Warren, RI. This month’s meal will be TBA. The event is a partnership of the Italian American War Veterans of US, inc. and the Building Bridges program. Last month over 60 veterans attended the luncheon.
The Building Bridges program provides a free breakfast or lunch at 13 sites that include Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont. These sites are run by community volunteers at community sites, including halls run by fraternal organizations, veterans’ organizations, and local restaurants. A team of veterans and volunteers do all the cooking and serving.
Do you know a restaurant, post, lodge, hall, etc. willing to host a luncheon on one of the Mondays in November, December, and January ITAM organization has RI Licensed Food Service Manager and full insurance.
If you have a location one of the luncheons can be held at, contact ITAM program manager John, (401) 677-9838.
September 2023
Sept 8-10, 2023 – Rocky Point State Park, Warwick American Veteran Traveling Tribute & Traveling Wall, remembering 209 Rhode Islanders who lost their lives in Vietnam War. Donations and sponsorship will support Operation Stand Down Rhode Island. Memorial opens 8am Friday – 5pm Sunday. Saturday September 9 2:09-2:30 and Sunday 2:09-2:30 pm reading of 209 Rhode Island names, For more information visit OSDRI’s Event Page, www.OSDRI.org
September 14,-15 Veteran Event, Johnston RI, Center, located at 1010 Hartford Avenue in Johnston RI. Operation Stand Down Rhode Island (OSDRI) is set to kick off its 32nd annual Veteran Assistance Event on September 14th at 8 a.m. This Veteran Assistance Event will be held at OSDRI’s Veteran Service Center located at 1010 Hartford Avenue in Johnston. Services will be available from 8:00 – 4:30 on Thursday 9/14, and 8:00 – 3:30 on Friday 9/15.
“Since its inception in 1993, the annual event has provided thousands of veterans with access to important services including health, dental, and substance abuse care, as well as employment, legal, and housing services. After holding a scaled back event during the pandemic in 2020, OSDRI expects a full roster of service providers this September.” said Erik Wallin, Esq. Executive Director of Operation Stand Down RI.
The event will be held at OSDRI’s Veteran Service Center, located at 1010 Hartford Avenue in Johnston. Veterans may access the location via RIPTA bus Route 28 which operates out of Kennedy Plaza and stops at the corner of Hartford and Bordon Avenue. Those arriving via their own vehicle must park and take a shuttle from behind the paved parking area ACROSS from Tri-County Community Action Agency: 1133 Hartford Avenue, Johnston, RI 02919
___
Travel/Entertainment for Veterans
Free Golf, Goddard Park Golf Course Fee Exemption for Totally Disabled Veterans: Rhode Island resident Veterans who have a 100% permanent and total, service-connected disability rating from the VA are exempt from paying any fees to play golf at the Goddard Park Golf Course. For more information call the Clubhouse at Goddard Memorial State Park from April 1st through the 3rd Saturday in November at 401-884-9834 or year-round at Division Headquarters at 401-667-6200.
Free Rhode Island Hunting and Fishing Licenses for 100% Disabled Veterans: A Veteran who has a 100% disability rating from the VA is eligible for free Rhode Island hunting and fishing licenses.
No cost licenses are available if you are:
· over 65 AND a Rhode Island resident
· a veteran with 100% disability status from the Department of Veterans Affairs
· a person with 100% total disability status from the Social Security Administration
To apply in person at DEM, please bring a photo ID and an ORIGINAL DOCUMENT OF THE FINAL DECISION(S). Office hours are 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. (directions)
To apply by mail, please complete an application and mail the application and a copy of your photo ID and the ORIGINAL DOCUMENT OF THE FINAL DECISION(S). Please allow two weeks for processing.
The address to obtain your license in person or by mail is:
DEM Licensing Office
235 Promenade Street, Room 360
Providence, RI 02908
(401) 222-3576
To purchase online, you will be required to certify that you have an ORIGINAL DOCUMENT OF THE FINAL DECISION(S). You will also be required to enter the date the decision expires. The Department will audit compliance with the certification and may, at any time, request a copy of the current DOCUMENT OF THE FINAL DECISION(S). Failure to submit the documentation by the date requested may result in the suspension of your fishing and hunting license. Also, Rhode Island General Law 11-18-1 prohibits giving false documents to an agent, employee, or public official. The penalty is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $1,000 or imprisonment up to one year.
Rhode Island Hunting and Fishing Benefits for Service Members and Veterans: Rhode Island offers several hunting and fishing benefits to Service members and Veterans. A short description of each is listed below. Applicants are required to show documentation proving eligibility when they apply:
· Active-Duty Service members – Military ID
· Veterans – DD214
· Disabled Veterans – VA Disability Certification Letter ( Contact VA office)
Applicants can apply online at Rhode Island Outdoors, in person at the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management, Office of Boating Registration and Licenses in Providence (Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.), at an Authorized In-Person Sales Agent, or they can mail applications to:
Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management
235 Promenade Street, Room 360
Providence, RI 02908
Phone: 401-222-3576
Free Rhode Island State Park Passes for 100% Disabled Veterans: Rhode Island offers the State Park Disability Pass for use at any state-owned recreational facility to disabled Veterans who have a 100% service-connected disability rating from the VA.
The State Park Disability Pass authorizes free admission and parking but does not exempt the following:
· Licensing fees
· Camping fees
· Picnic table fees
· Specialized facility uses fees
· Use of equestrian areas
· Performing art centers
· Game fields fees
· Mule shed fees
If the disabled Veteran cannot drive, the vehicle transporting the Veteran will not be charged.
Veterans must apply in person at the Rhode Island State Parks and Recreation Headquarters and are required to show official documentation (dated within the past year) from the VA that states they have a 100% service-connected disability.
Rhode Island State Parks and Recreation Headquarters
1100 Tower Hill Road
North Kingstown, RI 02852
Phone: 401-667-6200
Email: [email protected]
___
RESOURCES & ongoing groups
Below are all the groups the Providence Vet Center is currently offering. As this list changes, I will provide updates. Please send me any questions that you may have, thank you for your time!
***All Vet Center Groups require that the Veteran be enrolled with the Vet Center prior to attending. To check eligibility or for questions, please contact the Vet Center at (401) 739-0167 or reach out to our Veteran Outreach Program Specialist (VOPS) via email at [email protected]***
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Group (PTSD) – 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month from 2:00 – 3:30 p.m. (Group is only active September through May)
Global War on Terrorism (GWOT) and Vietnam Veterans PTSD Group – 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month from 9:30 – 11:00 a.m.
Vietnam Veteran PTSD Group – 1st and 3rd Monday of the month from 10:30 – 12:00 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Art Expression Group – Every Thursday from 9:00 – 12:00 p.m.
Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF)/Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF)/Operation New Dawn (OND) Group – Every Wednesday from 11:00 – 12:00 p.m.
Stress Management – Every Thursday from 9:00 – 10:00 a.m.
Low Impact Walking Group – Every Tuesday from 9:00 – 10:00 a.m.
Guitar 4 Veterans – Every Wednesday from 7:00-8:30 p.m.
Monday Mindfulness Group – Every Monday from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Yoga Group – Every Friday from 12:00 – 1:00 p.m.
Moral Injury Group – Every Friday from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Modern Warrior Support Group – 1st and 3rd Monday of the month from 2:30 – 4:00 pm.
___
Discounts for Veterans
Services
No Problem Plumbing and Heating LLC: 15% military discount, ask for Ron Gaynor, (401) 568-6666. Veterans must provide proof of eligibility with a VA Card, VA ID Card, or RI State license with veteran identification.
Restaurants
Applebee’s – Military Discount. With more than 2,000 locations, Applebee’s is a family grill restaurant. Applebee’s gives 10% off for active duty and veteran. Last verified 07/31/2022.
Denny’s – Hartford Ave, Johnston offers 10% discount for veterans and active duty. Denny’s is a table service diner-style restaurant chain. Last verified 07/31/2022.
Outback Steakhouse – 10% Discount to active and veterans. Last verified 07/28/2021
99 Restaurant & Pub – The 99 Restaurant & Pub offers a 10% military discount to members of Veterans Advantage. Available at select locations only. Bring valid military ID
___
Retailers
Advance Auto Parts – 10% for Active Duty, Veterans, and families. Last verified 07/28/2021
Bass Pro Shops – Offers a 5% discount to active-duty military, reservists, and National Guard. Sign up and verify your status online or bring your military ID when you shop at your nearest Bass Pro store (source).
BJs Wholesale – Reduced membership fee. BJ’s offers all military personnel over 25% off their Membership. Last verified 07/28/2021
Lowes – Enroll in the Lowe’s Military Discount Program to activate your 10% discount – “Our way of saying Thank You” to our active duty, retired and military veterans and their spouses with a 10% discount on eligible items. Verification of your military status is fast and easy through our partner, ID.me.
ID.me is our trusted technology partner in helping to keep your personal information safe.
GameStop – is offering a 10% in-store military discount on all pre-owned products, collectibles, and select new products. Available to current and former military members who bring any valid proof of service or when they verify through ID.me
Home Depot – Offers a 10% off military discount on regularly priced merchandise for in-store purchases for active duty, retired military, and reservists at participating locations. Customers are required to show a valid government-issued military ID card to redeem this offer.
Kohls – 15% discount offers for active military, veterans, retirees, and their immediate family members a 15% discount on purchases made on Mondays, in store only. In order to receive the military discount, eligible customers must present proper identification along with any tender type.
Jiffy Lube – HONORING VETERANS ALL DAY EVERY DAY! – We didn’t want to wait for Veteran’s Day to express our appreciation and gratitude for your service. That’s why every Team Car Care owned and operated Jiffy Lube® service center is offering our BEST discount of 10% OFF as a “Thank You” to the men and women of our Armed Forces for their service to our country. *Disclaimer*- I.D. required. No coupon is required. Excludes batteries and brakes, alignment, and diagnostic services. Available only at 3 select locations listed below:
Tioque Ave, Coventry RI – Bald Hill Road, Warwick RI – Park Ave, Cranston RI
Michaels – offers a 15% off military discount on the entire in-store purchase including sale items for active duty, retired military, guard, reservists, veterans, and family members. How to get –
1. Create an Account. Log in or create a Michaels Rewards account.
2. Get Verified. Provide your military information to get verified instantly.
3. Go Shopping! To use your discount online and in store, just sign into your account or provide your Michaels Rewards phone number at checkout.
O’Reilly Auto Parts – 10% discount on in store items for Active Duty, Veterans and families. Last verified 3/4/21.
___
If you are a retailer and or a veteran aware of a business not listed above, please forward to: [email protected]: the business’s name, location, and military and veteran discount offered.
If you have an event, meeting, other pertinent veteran information, or email questions or help needed, contact the Italian American War Veteran Service Officer, John A Cianci, [email protected], ITAM Office 1-(401)677-9VET(9838)
___
To read all columns in this series go to: https://rinewstoday.com/john-a-cianci/
John A. Cianci is a Veteran Service Officer. Retired, U.S. Army MSgt., Persian Gulf War and Iraq War combat theater.
Cianci, a combat disabled Veteran, served in Desert Shield/Storm and Operation Iraqi Freedom. His awards include Bronze Star, Combat Action Badge, Good Conduct, and others.
Cianci belongs to numerous veterans organizations – Italian American War Veterans, American Legion, Veterans of Foreign War, and many more organizations. He is an active volunteer assisting veterans to navigate federal and state benefits they have earned. He is Department of Rhode Island Department Commander Italian American War Veterans and Veteran Service Officer.
He is a graduate of Roger Williams University (BS Finance), UCONN business school* (Entrepreneur Bootcamp for Veterans), Solar Energy International Residential, Commercial and Battery Based Photovoltaic Systems certificate programs, numerous certificates from the Department of Defense renewable energy programs, including graduate of the Solar Ready Vets Program.