RI Veterans: Did you know? 12.06.25 (Memorial Day, Vets Cemetery, Events, Resources) – John A. Cianci

by John A. Cianci, contributing writer, veterans writer

Did you know you might be eligible for an annual clothing allowance of almost $1000 from the VA?

Eligible Veterans Must Apply Before August 1, 2025

VA Clothing Allowance

The VA Clothing Allowance is an annual benefit that helps veterans cover the cost of replacing clothing damaged by prosthetic devices, orthopedic devices, or skin medications related to a service-connected disability. The allowance, currently at $999.51 per year, is adjusted periodically to reflect the cost of living. 

Eligibility:

• Veterans must have a service-connected disability for which they require prosthetic, orthopedic, or skin medication. 
• The device or medication must cause damage to clothing, such as wear and tear or irreparable staining. 
• The VA form 10-8678 must be submitted by August 1st of the current year to receive the benefit for that year. 

Coverage:

• The allowance covers items like shirts, pants, skirts, and other similar garments that are permanently damaged.
• It does not cover items like shoes, hats, scarves, underwear, or socks. 

Application:

1. Complete VA Form 10-8678, Application for Annual Clothing Allowance., https://www.va.gov/find-forms/about-form-10-8678/
2. Submit the form to the VA by August 1st.
3. The form can be submitted online, by mail, by fax, or in person at a VA medical center. 

Payment:

• The allowance is typically paid between September and October. 
• Veterans can receive multiple payments if they qualify based on multiple devices or medications. 

Important Considerations:

• The benefit is intended to help veterans maintain an acceptable level of attire. 
• The VA may adjust the amount of the allowance periodically to reflect inflation. 

The VA releases clothing allowance payments between September 1 and October 31 for those who have qualified by August 1. To receive an annual payment, applications must be submitted by August 1 of the relevant year

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Memorial Day at Veterans Memorial Cemetery

Governor Dan McKee and Veterans Services Director Kasim Yarn presided over a solemn Memorial Day service at the Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Exeter today that included elected leaders, Veterans, and Gold Star Family members. Grace Rochelle, a Rogers High School senior and winner of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Voice of Democracy Essay titled “Is America Today, Our Forefathers’ Vision?” delivered the keynote remarks.

Participants included: 

• Governor Dan McKee
• Kasim Yarn, Director of RI Veterans Services
• James Bessel, Administrator of the RI Veterans Memorial Cemetery
• Sen. Jack Reed
• Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse
• Rep. Seth Magaziner
• Rep. Gabe Amo
• Lt. Gov Sabina Matos
• Secretary of State Gregg Amore
• General Treasurer James Diossa
• Sen. Peter Appollonio, Jr.
• Rep. Samuel Azzinaro
• Brigadier General Andrew Chevalier, The Adjutant General, RI National Guard
• Grace Rochelle, Voice of Democracy Essay winner, Rogers High School (Newport) senior, reading her essay “Is America Today, Our Forefathers’ Vision?”
• 88th Army Band, RI National Guard
• Gold Star Family members

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U.S. Army 250th Birthday – June 14th in Washington, D.C.

Free and open to the public on the National Mall in Washington, D.C.  

Here is the schedule of activities – many of which can be watched on television:

Schedule

• 9:30 am – 12:30 pm — Fitness Competition and Awards Livestream
• 11:00 am – 6:00 pm – Army Birthday Festival: This event is open to the public with opportunities to interact with Soldiers, watch military demonstrations, explore equipment static displays, and listen to live music throughout the day.
• 11:00 am – 12:00 pm — Chef Andre Rush Cooking Demonstration
• 11:00 am – 1:30 pm — MDW Music and Entertainment – The U.S. Army Band: Latin Music Ensemble: DJ Nyla: Down Range performances main stage, U.S. Army Drill Team performs on field
• 12:00 pm – 12:30 pm — Army Fitness Awards and Career Counselor of the Year Recognition (Main Stage) Livestream
• 12:30 – 1:00 pm — Noah Hicks (Main Stage)
• 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm — NFL Skills and Drills
• 1:30 pm – 1:45 pm — MOH Recipients Recognition
• 2:00 pm – 2:50 pm — Scotty Hasting (Main Stage)
• 2:45 pm – 3:00 pm — Army Astronaut Special Presentation
• 4:15 pm – 5:00 pm — 250th Army Birthday Festival Official Ceremony w/cake cutting Livestream
• 6:30 pm – 7:45 pm — Army 250th Birthday Parade
• The celebration will conclude with fireworks on the Mall.

For all the details – go to: https://www.army.mil/1775/

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The Next Mission: Higher Education Academic Boot Camp at Brown University Bridges Service and Scholarship

Held from June 14-21, the program is hosted in partnership with Warrior-Scholar Project.

This summer, a new cohort of enlisted student veterans will engage in a unique, immersive college preparatory experience at Brown University. Facilitated and designed in partnership with national nonprofit Warrior-Scholar Project, Brown will host a humanities academic boot camp from June 14-21. The program requires each participant to complete 75 academic hours, simulating the challenges of a typical college “finals week” to better prepare student veterans for the demands of academic life as they transition from military careers to higher education.

Each year, more than 115,000 veterans transition from military service to civilian life, and for many, enrolling in college is a critical next step in establishing a new career. This pivotal moment isn’t just academic; it’s also about embracing a new identity as a civilian, fostering personal growth, and discovering a sense of purpose and community beyond the military. WSP facilitates this journey, offering an experience that blends rigorous academic preparation with social support.

During the boot camp, veterans learn from esteemed Brown faculty, work with tutors, receive personalized mentorship from successful student veterans, and familiarize themselves with campus resources. This support is especially valuable as veterans adapt to a formal learning environment, which may feel unfamiliar after years spent away from the classroom. 

“The WSP program is an outstanding opportunity to find community with other veterans and prepare for college in a unique, positive, and empowering way,” said Army veteran Jonathon Thomas, a WSP-Brown alumnus and current Brown student.

The WSP difference is clear, underscoring the nonprofit’s comprehensive, veteran-centric approach: 88% of WSP alumni have completed or are on track to earn a college degree — far surpassing the national average for veterans using the Post-9/11 GI Bill (54%) and full-time civilian students (61%). 

Support from Brown University and investments made by foundations, corporations, and private donors cover the program’s entire cost for participants. Brown has partnered with WSP for three years.

ABOUT WARRIOR-SCHOLAR PROJECT

Warrior-Scholar Project’s mission is to ensure that every degree-seeking enlisted veteran succeeds in their pursuit of higher education. Since its founding in 2011, more than 2,500 student veterans have participated in a WSP Academic Boot Camp, its flagship program, and 88% of program alumni have earned or are on track to earn a college degree. The immersive college preparatory experience, hosted in partnership with colleges and universities nationwide, helps veterans prepare for the cultural transition from the military to academia. 

More than boot camps, WSP also offers programs to address the unique needs of student veterans, including integrated programming for underrepresented veterans, graduate school, and career field exploration. Recognizing the value WSP brings to veterans, the Dept. of Veterans Affairs collaborates with WSP to help veterans access information about WSP’s free programming. For more information, visit www.warrior-scholar.org.

About BROWN UNIVERSITY 

Founded in 1764 in Providence, Rhode Island, Brown is a nonprofit leading research university, home to world-renowned faculty, and also an innovative educational institution where the curiosity, creativity and intellectual joy of students drives academic excellence. Brown is a place where rigorous scholarship, complex problem-solving and service to the public good are defined by intense collaboration, intellectual discovery and working in ways that transcend traditional boundaries. As a private, nonprofit institution, the University advances its mission through support from a community invested in Brown’s commitment to advance knowledge and make a positive difference locally and globally.

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EVENTS

June 25, 2025 Wednesday, 5 to 7 p.m. – (always last Wed. of month), Rosario Club, 17 Rosario Drive, Providence RI, 500-700 pm. Italian American War Veterans of US/Department of Rhode Island monthly membership dinner. For more information, contact John (401) 677-9838, or via email. NEW MEMBER DRIVE. Free meal and set of dog tags for all interested veterans looking to join. Limited space, email me to secure space for yourself and guest. And all children are also invited with guests. itamri4vets@gmail.com

July 5, 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 FOR VETERANS GROUP American Legion Post #303 Swansea, MA. Bravo to all! Special thanks to Judith Fardig for all the fantastic photos. 

July 7, 2025, Monday, 9 to 11 a.m. – Federal Hill Veteran Coffee House sponsored by the Italian-American War Veterans of the 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 itamri4vets@gmail.com

July 9, 2025 (always the 2^nd Wednesday of the 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. Retired Sergeant Manual Leander is the guest chef, owner of Casa Tia Rosa. Enjoy his award-winning Portuguese food.

July 11, 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

July 11, 2025, Badgers Pub, 530 Broadway, Pawtucket, RI, 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.

July 12, 2025, 8-11am, Pilgrim Senior Center, Warwick, RI, Bootcamp Breakfast

 

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Help with VA Disability? Give American Veteran Advocacy a call…

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Paving Project at the Rhode Island Veterans Memorial Cemetery

Paving roadwork began at the Rhode Island Veterans Memorial Cemetery, on Monday, June 9th and is set to end TODAY on June 12th, between the overnight hours of 7 PM and 7 AM each day. Work is expected to take place on the main entry road and in the administrative parking area. 

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Pawtuxet Rangers change of command

The Pawtuxet Rangers, Rhode Island Historic Militia, proudly announce a historic change of command ceremony marking a new chapter in the organization’s long-standing service. After 20 years of leadership, COL Ron Barnes will conclude his tenure as Commander. Succeeding him is COL Phil Rowell, who will be formally installed during a public ceremony on Saturday, June 14th.

The ceremony is free and open to the public, with over 100 attendees expected from historical reenactment units across the region. Enjoy a special live performance by the Pawtuxet Rangers Fife & Drum Corps. This commemorative event offers attendees a unique glimpse into colonial-era military customs while honoring leadership and patriotism ahead of the 250th anniversary of American independence. Guests will have the chance to engage with reenactors and historians in a vibrant colonial encampment setting.

Chartered in 1774, the Pawtuxet Rangers were established to defend the seaport village of Pawtuxet. During the Revolutionary War, they manned the fort on Pawtuxet Neck, playing a vital role in the defense of both Pawtuxet and Providence.

Saturday, June 14th immediately following the Gaspee Days Parade ~ 12:30 PM, in the Colonial Encampment area of Pawtuxet Park (next to E View Street).

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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 to 1010 Hartford Ave., Johnston

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Veteran Resource Guides

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

https://www.soldierforlife.army.mil/Army-Retirement/Post-Retirement/Army-Echoes-Newsletter

 

Army 2025 Retired Soldier Handbook

https://soldierforlife.army.mil/documents/army%20retirement/post%20retirement/Retired%20Soldier%20Handbook.pdf

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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.

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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.

Details:

Standard hours: 6:00 AM to 1:00 PM (flexible options available)

Contact: Joseph Medeiros at (401) 457-3387 or Voluntary Services at (401) 457-3002 to learn more!

Let’s make the road smoother for those who’ve served-volunteer today!

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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)

• free and confidential
• get access to trained VA counselors
• available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
• 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 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:

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

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.

The State Park Disability Pass authorizes free admission and parking but does not exempt the following:

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: dem.riparks@dem.ri.gov

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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 

Applebees 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. Dennys 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. 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! 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: itamri4vets@gmail.com; the business 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, itamri4vets@gmail.com, 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.