RI Veterans: Did you know? 28.08.25 (Protocol, PTSD, URI Military Fair, Local Events…) – John A. Cianci

by John A. Cianci, contributing writer, veterans

Question from one of our readers

Q: – Why do some people salute, even if not in uniform, when saying the Pledge of Allegiance or playing the National Anthem? Jamison, Smithfield RI

A: – Answer from the United States Codes
More likely than not, they are retired military personnel, and it is proper for them to salute. Additionally, veterans not in uniform may stand at attention, facing the flag, with their right hand over their heart in accordance (Title 4 USC 4), https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/4/4

More on saluting as a veteran and wearing of the uniform:

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MAPS Partners with Changemark to Advance Cannabis PTSD Research for Veterans

• MAPS takes critical step toward beginning formal site selection and recruitment for MJP2, a Phase 2 study of inhaled cannabis for PTSD in Veterans
• MAPS selects Changemark Research + Evaluation as Contract Research Organization
• Women-owned and led CRO brings specialized psychedelic research expertise and mission-aligned values

SAN JOSE, Calif., Aug. 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) – The Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS) announced today that it has selected Changemark Research + Evaluation (Changemark) as its contract research organization (CRO) for MJP2, a Phase 2 study examining inhaled cannabis for the treatment of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in Veterans. MJP2 is funded by a $12.9 million grant from the Michigan Veteran Marijuana Research Grant Program.

Changemark is a women-owned and women-led international CRO specializing in research services for substance use, mental health, and Indigenous health and wellness. The company brings extensive experience managing trials for various mental health indications, including PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, and Substance Use Disorders, and has overseen studies exploring the therapeutic potential of cannabis, MDMA, psilocybin, ibogaine, and ketamine.

This announcement comes after MAPS successfully navigated a formal dispute process with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), clearing the path for the study to mirror real-world cannabis consumption.

We spent years challenging the FDA, and now have the right partner to carry it forward. Changemark’s background ensures the study will be conducted with the highest scientific standards to deliver the evidence that Veterans and their healthcare providers need.
Rick Doblin, PhD; Founder & President, MAPS

Changemark will be delegated to manage MAPS’ Sponsor obligations, including site and data management, monitoring, and safety reporting. Changemark will also ensure the trial is conducted efficiently, effectively, and in compliance with regulatory requirements and ethical principles.

MAPS has long stood at the forefront of research and advocacy to dismantle outdated barriers to care. The choice to partner with Changemark on this trial signals trust in both our capabilities and our values. We take that trust seriously. This pivotal trial is an opportunity to apply the highest standards of research practice to an area of care that matters deeply to veterans, their families, and the future of health policy.
Jill Fikowski, Founder and CEO; Changemark

Both organizations share values rooted in healing, justice, and evidence-based approaches to mental health, with Changemark’s anti-prohibition approach to research directly aligning with MAPS’ mission to develop evidence-based treatments while advocating for broader access to healing. This shared commitment was recently demonstrated when Changemark launched a $100,000 pro bono initiative providing grant writing and funding strategy support to harm reduction organizations in the face of significant funding cuts.

Projections point to the first participant receiving treatment in Q1 2026. The study will generate crucial data about cannabis use that mirrors real-world consumption to inform medical professionals.

ABOUT MAPS
Founded in 1986, MAPS is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit research and educational organization that develops medical, legal, and cultural contexts for people to benefit from the careful uses of psychedelics and marijuana. MAPS previously sponsored the most advanced psychedelic-assisted therapy research in the world and continues to support psychedelic and marijuana research with a focus on the people and places most impacted by trauma. MAPS incubated Lykos Therapeutics, a drug-development public benefit company, and The Zendo Project, a leader in psychedelic harm reduction. Since MAPS was founded, philanthropic donors and grantors have given more than $150 million to advance psychedelic research, change drug policy, and shape culture.

ABOUT Changemark Research + Evaluation
Changemark Research + Evaluation is an international contract research organization specializing in substance use, mental health, and Indigenous health research. The women-owned company supports cutting-edge research across Phase II to IV trials with a human-rights, justice, and equity-oriented approach. Changemark has established research relationships with leading investigators and specialists, gaining recognition as a responsive, trusted partner delivering high-impact results while supporting the self-determination and sovereignty of Indigenous Peoples.

Answer from the United States Codes

More likely than not, they are retired military personnel, and it is proper for them to salute. Additionally, veterans not in uniform may stand at attention, facing the flag, with their right hand over their heart in accordance ( Title 4 USC 4), https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/4/4

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From the VA

The Department of Veterans Affairs today announced more than $818 million in grants to 235 organizations across the country to help Veterans who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless.

VA awards grants based on a number of factors, including the grant recipients’ experience and past performance in providing supportive services to Veteran families, and the need in the area or community where the program will be based. Throughout fiscal year 2026, the grants will fund local organizations as they help Veterans access:

• Housing and housing counseling
• Health care
• Financial planning services
• Childcare
• Legal assistance
• Transportation

“Supportive services like childcare, housing counseling and financial planning can be important catalysts for preventing or resolving homelessness,†said VA Secretary Doug Collins. “These grants will help bring crucial support to thousands of Veterans in need across the nation.â€

The grants are being made available through VA’s Supportive Services for Veteran Families program, which provides case management and supportive services to:

• Prevent the imminent loss of a Veteran’s home.
• Identify new, more suitable housing situations for individuals and families.
• Rapidly re-house Veterans and their families who are homeless and might remain homeless without assistance.

Learn more about the program.

VETTIP: Recommend any veteran in need of housing assistance to contact Operation Stand Down in Johnston, RI. Important to note, if a veteran is behind in rent or mortgage payments and in jeopardy of losing housing, OSDRI manages a VA program that can assist in paying back rent and supplement your income up to 2 years. Justification for assistance could be that the veteran’s rent has increased, and the veteran needs time to adjust.

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URI Center for Military and Veteran Education hosts Sept. 2 resource fair

With move-in weekend around the corner, the University of Rhode Island is gearing up to welcome more than 3,300 freshmen between Aug. 29 and Sept. 1.

As part of O-Week festivities, URI’s Center for Military and Veteran Education (MAVE) will host a resource fair Sept. 2 from 10 a.m. to noon inside the Memorial Union, Atrium 2. Geared towards the University’s student veteran and military-connected student population, the fair is open to all and will offer a unique opportunity to meet fellow veterans and military-connected peers, engage with MAVE staff, explore student veteran organizations, and enjoy complimentary refreshments.

“We get amazing support from dozens of campus partners as well as federal and state resources for events like this one,†says Bob Flynn, the director of MAVE. “This is a team effort across campus and the reason why URI is recognized nationally as a top military friendly school.”

URI has an active and vibrant military population, enrolling approximately 300 student veterans, including ROTC and active-duty service members, with approximately 200 military dependents. In addition, more than 300 members of the URI faculty and staff are affiliated with a branch of the military.

The resource fair will feature a diverse lineup of URI staff and partners ready to answer a multitude of questions. There will also be a Navy recruiter present, information on parking services, URI’s ROTC representative, the Coordinator for Prior Learning and Career Advancement to assist with transfer credits, the Office of Disability, Access and Inclusion, as well as the Director of the Providence Clemente Veterans Initiative.

• Recruiter Vance Dewey will answer questions about URI’s ROTC program on campus and talk about the Military Science Leadership classes and MSL minor.
• Veronica Moran, from the Rhode Island Nation Guard will be able to answer questions on state, local, and legal benefits, like health and life insurance, financial and relocation assistance, and more!
• Zak Pereira will be available to share how incoming military students can send their Joint Services Transcripts to URI, how credits get posted and some useful transfer sites.
• Mark Santow, academic director for the Providence Clemente Veteran’s Initiative, will discuss the Clemente Course in the Humanities program which was developed for those making the transition from soldier to civilian.
• MAVE Director Bob Flynn and Coordinator Kathy Conlon will also help answer questions and assist with any student’s needs.
• MAVE work-study students will be on hand answering questions, sharing their experiences and provide tours of the MAVE Center.

URI’s MAVE Center officially opened in September 2022 and works to assist URI veterans, current military and military connected students in understanding veterans’ and military benefits, GI bill certification, financial aid and scholarship opportunities.

The resource fair will run from 10am–12pm. Registration is not required, however students may RSVP and share questions they may have.

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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:â€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 Managementâ€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,â€1100 Tower Hill Roadâ€, North Kingstown, RI 02852″. Phone: 401-667-6200. “Email: [email protected]

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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

Thursday, Sept. 11, 10:28 a.m.- service commemorating 9/11 in Oakland Beach; 9/11 Memorial Garden at the end of Oakland Beach Avenue, Warwick. Boots to Briefcases invites everyone to attend this annual remembrance, which will begin with a moment of silence at 10:28 a.m. to mark when the North Tower of the World Trade Center collapsed. Ground Zero survivor Judy Cobden will speak. The event is open to the public and is disability inclusive. Seating is limited, so please consider bringing a camp chair. Contact Camille Vella-Wilkinson for further info at CamilleB2B@outlook. com or call (401)738-1926.

September 13, 2025Congressman Gabe Amos 2025 Veterans BBQ

September 21, 2025 – Ipods for Wounded Veterans – Cranston:

September 11, 10:28 a.m: Service commemorating 9/11 in Oakland Beach; 9/11 Memorial Garden at the end of Oakland Beach Avenue, Warwick. Boots to Briefcases invites everyone to attend this annual remembrance, which will begin with a moment of silence at 10:28 a.m. to mark when the North Tower of the World Trade Center collapsed. Ground Zero survivor Judy Cobden will speak. The event is open to the public and is disability inclusive. Seating is limited, so please consider bringing a camp chair. Contact Camille Vella-Wilkinson for further info at CamilleB2B@outlook. com or call (401)738-1926.

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 who were previously ineligible for the RI Veteran Cemetery now eligible. For example, previous members of the RI Guard and/or reserve are ineligible, unless they 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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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

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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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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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:Â  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.