RI Veterans: Did you know? 17.04.25 (Disability Q/A, local events, resources…) – John A. Cianci

by John A. Cianci, contributing writer, veterans issues

Veteran’s Widow Awarded Thousands of Dollars in Disability Compensation: Husband Dementia Linked to Service-Connected Hearing Loss/Tinnitus

We start off with a question from one of our readers

Q: My husband served in the U.S. Army for 6 years. He was receiving monthly VA disability for hearing loss and tinnitus. He was also diagnosed with dementia, and on his death certificate read “dementia contributed to his death”. Before his death, the doctor told us his hearing loss and tinnitus was the cause of the dementia, and numerous studies support this. He filed a VA claim listing dementia as a secondary issue caused by his hearing loss/tinnitus. At the time of his death, a VA claim was pending for dementia. What should I do? – Joan, Johnston

A: There have been studies submitted and the private examiners have concluded that there is ample literature that hearing loss causes dementia. RINEWSTODAY’s research also discovered and found numerous claims approved for veterans and survivors of veterans who have dementia, or dementia contributed to the veteran’s death (see below).

VETTIP: Below is approved decision, Citation Nr: A22025282

Decision Date: 12/13/22, Archive Date: 12/13/22, DOCKET NO. 190418-18084, dated December 13, 2022. Emphasis, the board’s decision in this case is binding only with respect to the instant matter decided. This decision is not precedential and does not establish VA policies or interpretations of general applicability. 38 C.F.R. § 20.1303.

Layman terms: (1) the widow of the veteran was awarded over $100,000 of retroactive benefits (going back to the first month the veteran filed the claim in 2016), (2) The survivor spouse was also awarded an estimated $1500 a month DIC benefits (Dependency and Indemnity Compensation). https://www.va.gov/family-and-caregiver-benefits/survivor-compensation/dependency-indemnity-compensation/

Why was the widow awarded DIC after the veteran died?

To continue a VA claim after a veteran’s death, a surviving spouse or child needs to submit VA Form 21P-534EZ, Application for DIC, Survivors Pension, and/or Accrued Benefits. This form allows them to apply for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC), Survivors Pension, and any accrued benefits owed to the veteran.

VETTP: If the widow does not know if her husband had a claim opened, the survivor spouse can call 1-800-827-1000. Ensure to have the veteran’ full name, date of birth, and social security number. If the widow is advised, no claim is open, she should ask the VA representative to file an Intent to File, which can be done over the phone. https://www.va.gov/supporting-forms-for-claims/intent-to-file-form-21-0966/introduction. In addition, ask the VA to send you all forms required to file a claim for the dementia.

The veteran organization will provide FREE assistance to all veterans and survivors to file either VA 21P-534EZ or VA 21-0966. For FREE assistance, contact the Italian American War Veterans of the US Veteran Service Officer/Advocate, (401) 677-9838.

How did the veteran link his dementia to hearing loss/tinnitus?

Reviewing the decision, below:

(1)  The widow testified in July 2022 regarding her husband’s dementia being caused by his hearing loss. She stated that his treating physicians attributed his dementia to his hearing loss, which was left untreated for years.

(2)  In October 2022, the appellant submitted two private opinions. The first stated that a Lancet Commission study in 2020 reported hearing loss as one of the most significant risk factors for developing dementia. Studies indicate declines in temporal lobe (brain) volumes in those with hearing impairment. Hearing loss results in cognitive decline through reduced cognitive stimulation. Based on the available evidence, hearing loss was likely a cause or contributor to his dementia. Next, a physician stated that there is ample evidence in the literature linking hearing loss to dementia and even possibly Alzheimer disease. A brief review yields several studies that indicate hearing loss increases the risk of dementia later in life.

Overall, the evidence demonstrates that the Veteran’s hearing loss caused the development of his dementia. The Board finds that the VA opinion is not probative because it relies on a lack of literature to support that hearing loss causes dementia, but there have been studies submitted, and the private examiners have concluded that there is ample literature that hearing loss causes dementia. Entitlement to service connection for dementia as secondary to service-connected hearing loss is granted.

Layman’s terms, the widow presented studies hearing loss causes the development of dementia, and the widow had private doctors’ opinions indicating that hearing loss increases the risk  of dementia in life.

How was his dementia linked to his death?

The widow provided a copy of a death certificate which read dementia contributed to the veteran’s death.

VETTIP: Survivors should communicate with the Rhode Island, a licensed physician, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant who must sign the death certificate. The survivor can request the death certificate be reissued before accepting the document after the veteran’s death.

Studies that can be used to support hearing loss contributes to dementia.

1.   The Lancet commission on dementia prevention, intervention and care in 2017, and the 2020 update, found that hearing impairment was the most important of the modifiable risk factors for dementia with a pooled relative risk (RR) of 1.94 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.38–2.73), based on three studies.

2.   If filing a claim for dementia, recommend a statement be attached asking the VA per Duty to Assist Law, for the VA obtain from the  gather studies and the doctors opinion referenced in the decision below one of the decision, Citation Nr: A22025282, Decision Date: 12/13/22, Archive Date: 12/13/22, DOCKET NO. 190418-18084, dated December 13, 2022

VETTIP: Example of statement to attach, “I request, per the VA’s “duty to assist, request the VA to obtain federal records (1) studies detailed in the decision (2) private examiner’s opinion,  in citation A22025282, docket number 190418-18064. The Italian American War Veterans of US offer FREE assistance to all veterans and survivors obtaining copies of federal or state records to support veteran or widow claims.

VA Board Decision Linking Dementia to Hearing Loss

CONCLUSIONS OF LAW

1. The criteria for service connection for dementia are met.  38 U.S.C. §§ 1110, 5107; 38 C.F.R. §§ 3.102, 3.303, 3.310. 

2. The criteria for service connection for cause of death have been satisfied.  38 U.S.C. §§ 1101, 1110, 1310; 38 C.F.R. §§ 3.303, 3.307, 3.309, 3.312.

REASONS AND BASES FOR FINDINGS AND CONCLUSIONS

The Veteran served on active duty from February 1967 to February 1969.

In an October 2018 rating decision, a Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Regional Office (RO), denied, in relevant part, the issues noted above. The Veteran filed a notice of disagreement in November 2018 and a statement of the case (SOC) was issued in February 2019.  In the April 2019 VA Form 10182, Decision Review Request: Board Appeal (Notice of Disagreement), the Veteran timely appealed the portion of the SOC pertaining to the issues above and requested a hearing before the Board and an opportunity to submit evidence at the hearing and within 90 days following the hearing.  38 C.F.R. § 20.202.

1. Entitlement to service connection for dementia as secondary to service-connected hearing loss

Generally, to establish service connection, a claimant must show: (1) a present disability; (2) an in-service incurrence or aggravation of a disease or injury; and (3) a causal relationship between the present disability and the disease or injury incurred or aggravated during service, the so-called “nexus” requirement.  See 38 U.S.C. §§ 1110, 1131; 38 C.F.R. § 3.303; see also Shedden v. Principi, 381 F.3d 1163, 1167 (Fed. Cir. 2004).  A disability that is proximately due to, the result of, or aggravated by a service-connected disease or injury shall be service connected.  38 C.F.R. § 3.310.

The appellant contends that the Veteran’s hearing loss caused or contributed to his dementia.

In October 2017, the Veteran submitted multiple private opinions. The first stated that newer studies show that hearing loss has a correlation to the diagnosis of dementia. It is possible that his hearing loss may play some role in dementia. Next, a second physician stated that there is an established association between hearing loss and the risk for dementia. Finally, the third physician stated it is more likely that his hearing loss contributed in part to his dementia. At this time, the Veteran additionally submitted a medial article addressing the relationship between hearing loss and dementia.

In May 2018, a VA examiner stated that there is no evidence in the expert literature or in the opinion of experts in this area that supports a conclusion with 50% or greater probability that “hearing loss contributed to the development of dementia”.

The appellant testified in July 2022 regarding her husband’s dementia being caused by his hearing loss. She stated that his treating physicians attributed his dementia to his hearing loss, which was left untreated for years.

In October 2022, the appellant submitted two private opinions. The first stated that a Lancet Commission study in 2020 reported hearing loss as one of the most significant risk factors for developing dementia. Studies indicate declines in temporal lobe (brain) volumes in those with hearing impairment. Hearing loss results in cognitive decline through reduced cognitive stimulation. Based on the available evidence, hearing loss was likely a cause or contributor to his dementia. Next, a physician stated that there is ample evidence in the literature linking hearing loss to dementia and even possibly Alzheimer disease. A brief review yields several studies that indicate hearing loss increases the risk of dementia later in life.

Overall, the evidence demonstrates that the Veteran’s hearing loss caused the development of his dementia. The Board finds that the VA opinion is not probative because it relies on a lack of literature to support that hearing loss causes dementia, but there have been studies submitted and the private examiners have concluded that there is ample literature that hearing loss causes dementia. 

Entitlement to service connection for dementia as secondary to service-connected hearing loss is granted.

2. Entitlement to service connection for cause of death

To establish service connection for cause of death, the evidence must show that a disability incurred in or aggravated by active service either caused or contributed substantially or materially to the cause of death.  38 U.S.C. § 1310.  

A service-connected disability will be considered as the principal (primary) cause of death when such disability, singly or jointly with some other disorder, was the immediate or underlying cause of death or was etiologically related thereto.  A contributory cause of death is inherently one not related to the principal cause.  In determining whether the service-connected disability contributed to death, it must be shown that it contributed substantially or materially, that it combined to cause death, or that it aided or lent assistance to the production of death.  It is not sufficient to show that it casually shared in producing death, but rather it must be shown that there was a causal connection.  38 C.F.R. § 3.312.

There are primary causes of death, which by their very nature are so overwhelming that eventual death can be anticipated irrespective of coexisting conditions.  Even in such cases, there may be a reasonable basis for holding that a service-connected condition was of such severity as to have a material influence in accelerating death.  In this situation, however, it would not generally be reasonable to hold that a service-connected condition accelerated death unless such a condition affected a vital organ and was itself of a progressive or debilitating nature.  38 C.F.R. § 3.312(c).

The Veteran passed away in November 2017. The death certificate lists the cause of death as natural causes-dementia. As the Veteran’s dementia is now service-connected, service-connection for cause of death due to service-connected dementia is warranted.

The Board’s decision in this case is binding only concerning the instant matter decided. This decision is not precedential and does not establish VA policies or interpretations of general applicability. 38 C.F.R. § 20.1303. 

If your head is spinning after reading hearing loss linked to dementia and you need assistance, contact the Italian American War Veterans of  US for FREE assistance, (401) 677-9838 or email [email protected]

What can you do to slow down the development of dementia?

Studies show diet, physical activity, and treating hearing loss in early stage may slow down the development of dementia.

https://www.thelancet.com/commissions-do/dementia-prevention-intervention-and-care

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EVENTS

April 19, 2025, VFW Tiverton, RI

April 21, 2025, 11:30 to 1:00 FREE Luncheon (always the third Monday of the month), Perella’s Ristorante, 311 Metacom Ave, Warren R.I. Grinders and NY Style Hot Weiners, dessert, and coffee coffee. More information, call (401) 677-9838 or email [email protected]

April 30, 2025, Wednesday  Rosario Club, 17 Rosario Drive, Providence RI, 500-700 pm. Italian American War Veterans of US/Department of Rhode Island monthly membership dinner, 5:00 to 7:00 pm. More information, contact John (401) 677-9838, or via email [email protected]

May 2, Friday (always the first Friday), Medicine Horse, Silva Spirit Farm, 1600 Eagleville Road, Tiverton RI, “Fall in Friday” for active duty, veterans and first responders. No appointment, drop in from 10:00 to 12:00. Refreshments include homemade cookies. For more information, (401) 640-7506, https://www.facebook.com/SilvaSpiritFarm

May 2, 2025, Badgers Pub, 530 Broadway, Pawtucket, First Friday of every month, Veterans eat for FREE. Veteran-owned, Iraqi War veteran Jason Badger. Veterans can order anything off the menu free of charge, said Badger’s owner Jason Badger, including the bar’s New York System hot wieners and their fish and chips. Along with the free meals, veterans can partake in a variety of activities during the week, including bingo on Mondays, darts on Tuesdays, high-lo jack on Wednesdays, indoor cornhole on Thursdays, and Karaoke on Fridays and Saturdays, Badger said. The bar also hosts poker on Saturdays and Sundays.

May 3, 2025, Saturday, Christ Church 57 Main Street, Swansea MA 8:00 to 10:00, FREE Breakfast (First Saturday of every month). Veteran and one guest. Thanks to all the vets and volunteers today Christ Church! Free Veterans. Breakfast is first Saturday of every month. BUILDING BRIDGES FORVETERANS GROUP American Legion Post #303 Swansea, MA. Bravo to all! Special thanks to Judith Fardig for all the fantastic photos. 

May 5, 2025, Monday, 9:00 to 11:00 Federal Hill Veteran Coffee House sponsored by the Italian-American war Veterans of US. Free to all veterans and guests. Refreshments include ROMA’s Italian Toast, pastries, calzones, and pizza. For more information, contact ITAM , at (401) 677-9838 or email [email protected]

May 14, 2025 (always the 2^nd Wednesday of month) toast n’ tap, 5:00-7:00, Toast n’ Tap, 45 Quaker Lane, W. Warwick RI. The Italian American War Veterans of the US will provide a FREE Dinner for all veterans and one guest.

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WANTED WORLD WAR II VETERANS FOR ALL-EXPENSE PAID TRIP TO WWII MUSEUM

Do you know a World War II Veteran? The Gary Sinise Foundation invites WWII veterans to join him for an all-expense paid trip to the National WWII Museum from April 29-May 2. All veterans attending must travel with a guardian and all guardians must have a personal connection to the veteran.

Veteran Application: https://bit.ly/SVveterans

Guardian Application: https://bit.ly/SVguardian

More information on National WWII Museum:

Offering a compelling blend of sweeping narrative and poignant personal detail, The National WWII Museum features immersive exhibits, multimedia experiences, and an expansive collection of artifacts and first-person oral histories, taking visitors inside the story of the war that changed the world. Beyond the galleries, the Museum’s online collections, virtual field trips, webinars, educational travel programs, and renowned International Conference on World War II offer patrons new ways to connect to history and honor the generation that sacrificed so much to secure our freedom.

The National WWII Museum tells the story of the American experience in the war that changed the world—why it was fought, how it was won, and what it means today—so that all generations will understand the price of freedom and be inspired by what they learn.

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2025 National Veterans Day Poster Contest is now open

Attention Artists:  Here’s your opportunity to show off your talent and use your artwork to honor Veterans. VA and the Veterans Day National Committee are now accepting entries for the 2025 Veterans Day Poster Contest. Submissions are due by 11:59 p.m. (EDT) on May 2, 2025.

This contest is open to all, and your art should reflect this year’s theme: “Service to our Nation.”

After receiving more than 150 entries last year, Myisha Godette, a retired, disabled Army Veteran from Queens, New York, was selected as the winner of the 2024 contest. In describing her design, Myisha’s inspiration was “the shared experience of service members—past, present and future—with elements like the American Flag, military ‘dog tags,” and the enduring strength of Veterans, embodied by a solid, dark concrete background in my design.”

The winning poster will be distributed to VA facilities, military installations worldwide, and across cities and towns in our nation. It will also serve as the cover of the official program for the Veterans Day National Observance at Arlington National Cemetery on Nov. 11, 2025.

To ensure your submission meets the technical requirements, please review our design submission guidelines before engaging your creativity. Successful designs are very simple, with minimal imagery and verbiage. To view examples of past winning submissions, visit The Veterans Day Poster Gallery.

Submit electronic versions as jpg/jpeg images or PDF files to [email protected]. 

Questions? Please email the Veterans Day Coordinator at [email protected].

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Veteran Resource Guide 

Retirees

Army Newsletter Army publishes a semi-annual FREE newsletter to mail to all Army retirees, Army Echoes. To subscribe:

Call DFAS at (800) 321-1080 or online sign-up, you can update your information or sign up, https://www.dfas.mil/RetiredMilitary/manage/changeofaddress/

Past editions of the Army Echoes newsletter are available for free download, here: https://www.soldierforlife.army.mil/Army-Retirement/Post-Retirement/Army-Echoes-Newsletter

Did you know the US Army has a 2025 Retired Soldier Handbook?

Here’s the link: https://soldierforlife.army.mil/documents/army%20retirement/post%20retirement/Retired%20Soldier%20Handbook.pdf

The purpose of the U.S. Army Retired Soldier Handbook is to provide current and updated information for Retired Soldiers and their families, about the benefits and entitlements they’ve earned through their years of faithful service.

All Retired Soldiers must maintain a working knowledge of their benefits and entitlements to take full advantage of them. In addition to the information presented in the book, Retired Soldiers should refer to Army Echoes which also outlines changes in benefits and entitlements. The current and previous editions of the Army Echoes dating back to 1998 are available.

What is in the handbook?

Almost everything a retired member of the military, including understanding benefits he or she will get from social security, etc. For example, do you know what a veteran should do when the flag is displayed and the national Anthem is playing? When can a retired member wear the uniform?

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VA Providence News

FAQ Medicare For Veterans

Do I have to sign up for VA Healthcare if I have VA Healthcare?

Reasons to sign up (if you are not receiving VA disability or less than 30% VA rated)

VETTIP: I assisted a veteran trying to get reimburse by the VA for over $20, 000, as his only option for rehabilitation after a emergency hospital visit was either in West Haven Ct. or New Jersey. VA refused to reimburse, since he was offered options. 

I have VA Health Care, why should I sign up for Medicare A and B?

Monthly VA Disability Compensation

Q: I filed a claim and was denied by the VA, can I hire an attorney? And if I can hire an attorney, what does the attorney charge? – Patty, Scituate

A: Yes, a veteran has the option to hire an attorney or claim agent after being denied on the claim or disagreeing with his or her rating awarded. Normally, the attorneys do not assist veterans in filing the initial claim and the attorney should not charge you for filing the initial claim. 

While you don’t have to hire an attorney or claim agent to appeal a VA decision, the veteran’s benefits appeal process is complicated, time-consuming, and usually requires years of waiting. Moreover, last year alone, after I educated the veterans on the appeal process, over 50 veterans (over 90 percent success rate) submitted the appeal on their own, and were successful. NO attorney, claims agent, or VSO can guarantee success with an appeal. 

Hiring an RI attorney gives you a check and balance with the entities that monitor their activities. Moreover, the Office of General Counsel for the Veterans Administration will also accept complaints from VA accredited attorneys and claim agents ; https://www.va.gov/OGC/docs/Accred/HowtoFileaComplaint.pdf

Should I select FREE assistance for my appeal?

The decision is up to the veteran, the survivor of the veteran, and or family member.

Veteran Service Officers (VSO) volunteering and working for major organizations like the American Legion, DAC, AMVETS, and Vietnam Veterans of America can also assist veterans in appealing a decision for FREE charge, however, generally, don’t have medical personnel part of the appeal teams reviewing a veteran’s files or the legal training like an attorney.

VETTIP:  If you choose a FREE Veteran Service Officer(VSO) from one of the organizations offering to submit your appeal, I suggest you ask the VSO if their organization has an attorney who can review your denial decision. Does the VSO organization have medical personnel that will review your medical files?

Yes, FREE services are available, however, if the veteran chooses an attorney who will only charge on a contingency basis (usually 20 percent of retroactive), the attorney has an interest in doing his due diligence to ensure a favorable decision. Moreover, a favorable appeal could be worth tens of thousands of benefits for the entire veteran’s life, including education benefits for his or her children. 

Whoever is assisting you, should provide adequate evidence to VA to support a higher rating for diabetes. 

If a veteran cannot get an attorney to assist, DO NOT GIVE UP if you believe you are entitled to VA benefits, contact the Veteran Service Officer ( VSO) of the Italian American War Veterans of RI, at (401) 677-9838. ITAM’s VSO will assist you in understanding the denial, and assist for FREE in gathering additional evidence that could reopen your claim. For example, in the last 12 months, ITAM assisted survivors who were denied benefits, even after attorneys assisted them and were still denied. 

Here is the link to assist in selecting a VA-approved attorney; you can type in Rhode Island in the block, and you will get a list of all VA-accredited attorneys, agents, and representatives located in RI:

https://www.va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation/#:~:text=The%20Accredited%20Attorney%2C%20Claim%20Agent,to%[email protected]

Sadly, the State of Rhode Island does not fund every town/city to have Veteran Service officers like neighboring states, Connecticut and Massachusetts, who could assist a veteran in the appeal process at no charge. 

In conclusion, veterans review the list and shop around through the many options you have in Rhode Island to select an attorney, agent, or accredited claims agent. 

VETTIP: I strongly recommend when selecting an attorney or claims agent, select only VA-accredited attorneys and or claim agents. Moreover, I would not pay any out-of-pocket cost, as most accredited attorneys and claim agents will work on a contingent basis. 

Frequently Asked Questions Providence Medical Hospital

Q: How do I get an appointment with a primary provider at the VA Providence Medical Center  on Chalkstone Ave, Providence?

A: VA Providence Medical Center 

VETTIP: A Veteran must be enrolled/registered with the VA before services are provided.

For FREE assistance to enroll in VA Health care system, contact the Italian American War Veterans of US, Veteran Service Officer, (401)677-9838 or email [email protected], or website, italianamericanwarveteransofus.org – Direct: 401-273-7100 or 401-457-3336

Q: I was unhappy with service at the Providence VA?

Veteran options if unhappy with the VA service and or recommendations:

Denied a clinical procedure:

What options does a veteran have if denied a clinical procedure at a VA Hospital?

Step 1: I would recommend that you contact your primary care provider and tell them that the referral was denied.

VETTIP: I recommend you contact your provider through MyHealthVA, https://www.myhealth.va.gov/mhv-portal-web/home This provides documentation for additional evidence the veteran is denied a service their VA primary provider recommended additional medical services.

Step 2: Initiate a clinical appeal. 

If you disagree with a VA medical treatment decision, you can initiate a Clinical Appeal, a process where a higher-level review of the decision is requested, potentially involving the facility’s chief medical officer and other experts. 

Here’s a more detailed explanation:

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Help our Veterans at the Operation Stand Down Food Bank! 

Supplies are low – please stop by with items – or make a monetary contribution. 

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VETERANS VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Italian American War Veterans of US (ITAM) Volunteer Opportunities:

Leave No Veteran Alone Program ““ Monday and Saturday, ITAM seeks volunteers to meet up at designated nursing homes to meet and socialize with veterans living at the facility. We schedule the facilities 30 to 60 days in advance. Volunteers socialize with veterans and TRY TO SPOIL them with refreshments we provide.  Point of contact, Wendy Cianci, assistant (401) 677-9838.

Monthly Schedule for long term care and assisted living facilities needing volunteers:

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Disabled American Veterans Volunteer Drivers Needed at VA Providence

Looking for a meaningful way to give back? Join VA Providence’s Volunteer Transportation Network (VTN) and help ensure Veterans get to their medical appointments with ease and dignity. As a volunteer driver, you’ll play a vital role by picking up and dropping off Veterans using our DAV vans.

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Free Help for Homeless Veterans or those at housing risk

Veterans who are homeless or at risk of homelessness””and their family members, friends, and supporters””can make the call to or chat online with the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans, where trained counselors are ready to talk confidentially 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Who Can Call

• Veterans who are homeless or at risk of homelessness
• Family members, friends and supporters calling on behalf of Veterans
• VA Medical Centers and other VA facilities and staff
• Federal, state and local partners
• Community agencies and providers who serve Veterans who are homeless

Why Make the Call to 1-877-4AID VET (877-424-3838)

• It’s free and confidential
• You’ll get access to trained VA counselors
• It’s available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
• You’ll get information about VA homeless programs, health care and other services in your area

What Happens When Veterans Make the Call

• A trained VA staff member asks a few questions to find out what you need
• Then, you’re connected to the nearest VA staff person who can help
• What Happens When Others Make the Call
• Family members and non-VA providers receive information about available homeless programs and services
• They can keep their information confidential or leave contact information so staff can follow up
• VA’s Resources for Homeless and At-Risk Veterans
• VA offers a wide array of services to help homeless and at-risk Veterans. 

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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:

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:

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

Learn more about FREE Rhode Island Hunting , Fishing, State Parks, and Golf  Benefits for Service Members and Veterans

https://dem.ri.gov/about–us/dem–offices/boating–registration–licenses/rhodeislandoutdoors#:~:text=If%20you%20qualify%20for%20a,that%20issued%20the%2 0disability%20decision.

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.

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: 401-6676200
Email: [email protected]

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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) 

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Group (PTSD) – 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month from 2:00 to 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. 

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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. 

Badger’s Pub – 530 Broadway, Pawtucket is now offering a free meal to veterans every first Friday of the month at the bar. Veterans can partake in a variety of activities during the week, including bingo on Mondays, darts on Tuesdays, high-lo jack on Wednesdays, indoor cornhole on Thursdays, and Karaoke on Fridays and Saturdays, Badger said. The bar also hosts poker on Saturdays and Sundays.

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

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: 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 to Michaels Rewards. 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. 

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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/  

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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.