RI Veterans: Did you know? 07.08.25 (Victory Day, Calling WWII Vets, Events, benefits) – John A. Cianci

by John A. Cianci, contributing writer, veterans issues

World War I Victory Medal – above
BACKGROUND – The World War I Victory Medal commemorates military service during World War Il and is awarded to any member of the United States military, including members of the armed forces of the Government of the Philippine Islands
CRITERIA
This medal is awarded for any active duty or Reserve service period between Dec. 7, 1941 and Dec. 31, 1946.

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WANTED:  World War II Veterans

WWII Veterans Luncheon on Victory Day, Monday - Meet a living hero, 103-year-old WWII Veteran Caster Salemi, on Monday at ROMA, 311 Atwells Ave, Providence, RI.

Caster Salemi is a 103-year-old World War II veteran, known for his service in the U.S. Army’s 251st Field Artillery Battalion in the South Pacific, specifically in campaigns in New Guinea and the Philippines.

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FEATURE:  100-year-old Castor is going before Judge Caprio for his first traffic violation in 84 years. Listen to Castor plead his case on YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/shorts/R5qAgI-nbPg.

The Italian American War Veterans of the US will be hosting a tribute lunch for all WWII Veterans and their families on Monday, August 11, 2025, at ROMA, 310 Atwells Ave, Providence, RI, from 11:30 to 1:00.

RI, MA World War II veterans are encouraged to call (401) 677-9838 to reserve free tickets for the Monday luncheon, which they and their families are invited to attend.

Less than 1 % of the 16.4 million Americans who served during World War II still with us today. According to U.S Department of Veterans Affairs statistics, fewer than 65,000 of the 16.5 million WWII veterans remain living.

In Rhode Island, it is estimated that fewer than 450 WWII veterans are still alive. The State of Rhode Island has the second-highest percentage of living WWII veterans per 100,000 residents, with New Hampshire ranking first.

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Rhode Island observes Victory Day

Victory Day, on the second Monday of August, will commemorate the end of World War II, specifically Japan’s surrender. It’s a state holiday, making Rhode Island the only state to still officially celebrate this occasion. The holiday is rooted in the state’s strong naval presence during the war and the large number of Rhode Islanders who served.

While the holiday is intended to honor those who served and the end of the war, it has faced criticism for its name and the implications of celebrating a victory that involved the use of atomic bombs. Some people feel the name singles out the Japanese people and overlooks the suffering on both sides.

Efforts have been made to change the name of the holiday to “Peace and Remembrance Day” to reflect a broader perspective on the war’s conclusion. However, these efforts have been met with resistance from those who view Victory Day as a way to honor veterans and the sacrifices made by Rhode Islanders during the war.

“We must never forget the service of our World War II Veterans,†said State Commander of the Italian American War Veterans of the US, John A Cianci. “Known as the Greatest Generation, we are blessed to have over a dozen WWII Veterans members of our organization.â€

Once again, during the last legislative session in Rhode Island, a bill was introduced to change the holiday name. The proposed bill had 7 sponsors from the democratic party:

Meghan Kallman (D)*,  Jonathon Acosta (D),  Alana DiMario (D),  Pam Lauria (D),  Tiara Mack (D),  Ryan Pearson (D),  Bridget Valverde (D), 

The bill has been introduced in Rhode Island to change the name of the state holiday currently known as “Victory Day” to “Peace and Remembrance Day”. The bill aims to replace “Victory Day” in the state’s official list of holidays with the new name. This change reflects a desire to acknowledge the human cost of war and promote reflection on the broader impact of World War II, including civilian casualties and the use of atomic bombs.

The proposed name change is motivated by a desire to move away from a celebration of military victory alone and to instead commemorate the day with a focus on peace and remembrance. Proponents of the bill argue that the current name, “Victory Day”, is insensitive to the Japanese American community due to the historical context of the war and the internment of Japanese Americans. They also point to the widespread civilian suffering during the war, particularly the devastation caused by the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The bill seeks to honor all those affected by the war and to promote a message of peace and reconciliation.

“No holiday name should be changed, especially Victory Day, which celebrates our victory. Let’s recall that Japan attacked the US 80 years ago,†said Cianci.

The bill died in committee.

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More on the history of Victory Day

NEVER FORGET Japan Surrendered 80 Years Ago

NEVER FORGET Japan attacked the US on December 2, 1941 killing 3477 Americans

On August 15, 1945, the Empire of Japan, Emperor Hirohito announced the surrender and formally signed 2 September 1945 to end the war.

Victory Day Report – Events statewide

Throughout the State of Rhode Island on Monday, Rhode Islanders celebrated Victory Day at events in Pawtucket, Kingston, W. Greenwich, and Warren, RI. RI is the only state that has Victory Day as a holiday, always celebrating on 2^ndMonday in August. Majority of workers did not have the day off, though all RI employees did and offices were closed.

History of Victory Day

On December 7, 1941, Japanese carrier planes attacked the American fleet at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, knocking out over 200 planes and sinking or damaging eight battleships, the pride of the US Pacific fleet. The following day, Congress declared war on Imperial Japan. According to U.S. census, the attack killed 2,403 U.S. personnel, including 68 civilians, and destroyed or damaged 19 U.S. Navy ships, including 8 battleships. Simply put, these actions by Japan forced the United States to enter the war.

Rhode Island Facts of WWII 

Rhode Island established Victory Day in March 1948, almost three years after the end of World War II, designating Aug. 14 as a state holiday.

1 in 10 Rhode Islanders served in World War II, estimated 92,000

2,435 U.S armed forces from Rhode Island gave the ultimate sacrifice.

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Charlestown 40th Anniversary Seafood Festival

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EVENTS

August 11, 2025, Monday, Rhode Island Victory Day Holiday, Tribute Lunch and Honoring World War II Veterans. ROMA, 310 Atwells Ave, World War II. Italian Buffet FREE to all WWII Veterans and their guest(RSVP no later than August 9, 2025. All living WWII Veterans will receive a CUSTOM made tribute.

August  13, 2025 ( always the 2^nd Wednesday of the month), toast n’ tap, 4:30 – 6;30,  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.

August 16, 2025 , Saturday – Annual Calling All Veterans

August 18, 2025, FREE Veteran’s Luncheon, 1130am to 100pm Perella’s Ristorante, 311 Metacom Ave, Warren RI. All veterans are invited, and reservations for the August or September Lobster or Lasagna Veteran luncheon will be taken (must be present for the August luncheon to reserve a seat for lobster or lasagna luncheon. 

August 23, 2025 Naval Station Newport is putting the finishing touches on Salute to Navy 250, a special edition of the installation’s annual open-to-the-public Salute to Summer concert and fireworks event, scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 23, 2025.

“This year we are celebrating the 250th birthday and founding of the United States Navy,” explained Capt. Henry Roenke, installation commanding officer and host of the event. “In celebration of the proud service and legacy of the Navy, we have branded this event Salute to Navy 250. There is no better occasion to showcase the valuable relationship between our Ocean State community and the Navy than during this annual program, and we welcome the public to be part of this great event.”

September 1, 2025, Monday, 9:00 to 11:00, Federal Hill VeteranCoffee 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 [email protected]

September 5, 2025, 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

September 5, 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.

September 6, 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

September 6, 2025 Dive 4 The Prize

September 13, 2025 Congressman Gabe Amos 2025 Veterans BBQ

January 17, 2026 35^th Desert Storm Reunion, Tri-City Elks, West Shore Road, Warwick, RI3:00 p.m. to 4:30 pm Veteran Social. All Desert Shield/Storm veterans invited. 5:00 p.m. Memorial service . More information and tickets go to https://35desertstorm.org

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Veteran Burial Resource Guide – RI Veteran Memorial Cemetery, Exeter, RI

Changes to federal laws have made veterans once not previously eligible for the RI Veteran Cemetery now eligible. For example, previous members of the RI Guard and or reserve ineligible, unless he met active duty requirements and or served in a conflict.

However, The Burial Equity for Guards and Reserves Act, which made National Guard and Reserve members eligible for burial in state veterans’ cemeteries regardless of their active-duty status, was enacted on March 15, 2022. This legislation ensured that Guardsmen and Reservists meeting certain criteria, such as not having a dishonorable discharge, would be eligible for burial in state veterans’ cemeteries, even if they didn’t meet the previous, more restrictive, eligibility requirements

How to apply?

https://vets.ri.gov/veterans-cemetery-interment-application-online

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VETERANS VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

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

Leave No Veteran Alone Program (https://italianamericanwarveteran.org)  – 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:

Saturdays:

1st Saturday: South Kingstown Nursing and Rehab, 2115 S County Trail, West Greenwich, RI

3rd Saturday, Friendly Home, 303 Rhodes Ave, Woonsocket, RI

Mondays:

2nd Monday – Greenwood Nursing and Rehab, 1139 Main Ave, Warwick RI

4th Monday– Chapel Hill Senior Living , 10 Old Diamond Hill Road, Cumberland RI  Tuesdays

1st Tuesday Village House Nursing and Rehab, 70 Harrison Ave, Newport RI

2nd Tuesday– Elmwood Nursing Home and Rehab, 225 Elmwood Ave. Providence RI

Wednesdays

1st  Wednesday– Eastgate Nursing and Rehab, 198 Waterman Ave, East Providence RI 2nd Wednesday –West Shore Health Center109 West Shore Road, Warwick  RI Fridays

1st Friday–Benchmark at Forge Hill, 4 Forge Hill Road, Franklin MA

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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.

What We’re Looking For:

Active driver’s license & vehicle insurance

Clean driving record

Ability to pass a background check

COVID-19 vaccination

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

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 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 through the 3rd Saturday in November at 884-9834 or year-round at Division Headquarters at 401-6676200.

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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:

• Licensing fees
• Camping fees
• Picnic table fees
• Specialized facility use 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]

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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 – 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 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://2×8.ea2.myftpupload.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.