RI Veterans: Did you know? 18.09.25 (Operation Stand Down, Info, Resources, Events) – John A. Cianci

by John A. Cianci, contributing writer, veterans issues

Did you know that Boston Red Sox rookie pitcher Connor Early started his collegiate career at West Point before transferring to the University of Virginia and being drafted by the Red Sox in 2023? He made his MLB debut on September 9, 2025, after previously spending two seasons with the Army baseball team, where he won back-to-back Patriot League Championships. 

How to Apply for West Point

Path to a World-Class, Tuition-Free Education Starts Here

If you’re a high school junior or senior who’s driven, physically active, and ready to lead, the United States Military Academy at West Point might be the place for you.

West Point isn’t your typical college – it’s a top-tier school that trains future leaders for the U.S. Army while providing a world-class education, all tuition-free.

Follow the steps below to start and complete your West Point application. You can also view the application timeline to help meet important deadlines. For help at any point during the application process or what you’ll need to apply, please reach out to your Regional Admissions Officer.

Ready to lead? Here’s how to apply!

1. Meet the Basic Requirements

To apply to USMA, you must meet several basic requirements. These ensure that applicants are academically, physically, and morally prepared for the demands of military and academic life.

• U.S. citizenship
• Age (17-22 on July 1 of the year of admission)
• Unmarried
• No legal obligation to support children

Not old enough to apply yet? Join the Admissions mailing list to stay in touch until you are.

2. Take the ACT, SAT, or CLT

If you’re thinking about applying to West Point, one of the key steps is taking the ACT, SAT, or CLT*. These standardized tests help West Point see how ready you are for the academic challenges of college-level work – especially in math, reading, and writing. They’re a big part of your overall application and can make a strong impact when it comes to standing out in a competitive applicant pool.

• Standardized tests are required.
• We superscore your results, combining your best scores from each subject across multiple test attempts.
• Official scores are due by Jan. 31 of your senior year.

Pro tip: You don’t need your scores before submitting your application; you can update them until the Jan. 31 deadline.

Optional test sections (like ACT Science Reasoning or the ACT Writing Test) are not required.

* The Classic Learning Test (CLT) will be accepted beginning in February 2026 for the West Point Class of 2031.

3. Submit Your Application

Applying to USMA is a big step – and it’s more than just filling out a form. It’s about showing that you’re ready to take on the challenge of becoming a future Army officer, student, and leader. The application process is detailed and competitive, but if you stay organized and start early, you’ve got this!

Be prepared with your information, including:

• Personal information (e.g., home address, date of birth, etc.)
• Schools attended
• Congressional District
• Sport and extracurricular activities
• Self-reported GPA and test scores (if available)

Pro tip: To apply to our Summer Leaders Experience (SLE), complete this step and the SLE checklist before April of your junior year.

4. Obtain a Nomination

Before you can officially apply to West Point, you’ll need a nomination. You must apply for it separately from your USMA application. Think of it like a golden ticket – it shows that a government official or military source believes you have what it takes to succeed at USMA and become a future Army officer.

Most students apply for a nomination from:

• A U.S. Senator
• A U.S. Representative
• Vice President of the United States

There are also special nominations for children of military members, veterans, or Medal of Honor recipients.

Locate your Congressional Representative or Senator.

Note: Each nominating authority has its own application process and deadline, so read and follow instructions closely. Applications often include an essay, resume, letters of recommendation, and possibly an interview. You can – and should – apply to more than one source to boost your chances.

5. Complete the CFA

West Point isn’t just about academics – it’s about building strong leaders who are mentally tough and physically fit. That’s why part of the application process includes the Candidate Fitness Assessment (CFA), a test designed to measure your strength, speed, and endurance. The CFA show sthat you can handle the physical challenges of cadet life and military training.

The CFA series of physical tests can be administered:

• By a PE teacher
• By a Field Force Representative
• By a Military Academy Liaison Officer (MALO)
• By a U.S. military officer or non-commissioned officer from any service branch
• By a J/ROTC instructor
• Or while attending SLE

6. Pass the Medical Exam

To get into USMA, you don’t just need good grades and leadership skills. You also have to be medically fit for military service. That’s where the Department of Defense Medical Examination Review Board (DoDMERB) comes in.

Once you start your West Point application and are officially considered a candidate, you’ll be scheduled for a medical exam. This exam checks your overall health to make sure you can safely handle the physical and mental demands of life as a cadet and future Army officer.

DoDMERB exams are provided at no cost to you.

Note: You will be notified to schedule a DoDMERB exam after West Point Admissions has reviewed your initial application (step 3) and confirmed your eligibility.

7. Complete Your Candidate Checklist

Applying to West Point is a serious commitment – there are a lot of steps, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s why West Point recommend that you make yourself a candidate checklist.

This checklist is your go-to tool. A completed checklist will include:

• Official SAT or ACT scores
• Official school transcripts
• Essays, personal statement and/or resume
• Qualifying CFA scores
• Letters of recommendation from three teachers
• Updated records of sport and extracurricular activities
• Nomination(s)

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Congressional Delegation Calls for Release of Information on Status of VA Workforce in Rhode Island

TODAY, Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse, and Congressmen Seth Magaziner and Gabe Amo called on Secretary of Veterans Affairs, Douglas Collins, to explain the loss of Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) employees across the United States and provide an update on the status of Rhode Island’s federal VA workforce.

The Members write:

“We are alarmed that your actions as Secretary to drastically reduce the VA workforce have negative repercussions for employee morale and future recruitment. Your recent decision to terminate collective bargaining agreements for VA employees will almost certainly make the problem worse, as approximately 80% of VA employees belonged to a union. VA employees are essential to serving our Veterans. The alarming rate at which employees are leaving VA jeopardizes Veterans’ ability to timely access services and benefits they have earned and will undermine the VA’s ability to meet its mission for many years.”

“According to the July issue of VA’s Workforce Dashboard, the net losses of Veteran-facing VA employees for this fiscal year are estimated at over 8,700. These losses include over 2,129 registered nurses, 1,283 medical support assistants, 751 physicians, and 1,294 Veteran claim examiners.  This is a significant loss compared to the Biden administration, which added over 8,700 employees during the same period in Fiscal Year 2024.”

“In order to assess the impact on our constituents, we request a more detailed understanding of the current VA workforce in Rhode Island. Specifically, we request data on all employee departures from January 1, 2025, through September 16, 2025, within the State of Rhode Island, including at the Eagle Square VA Clinic, Eagle Street VA Clinic, Providence VA Medical Center, Middletown VA Clinic, Providence VA Regional Benefit Office, and Providence Vet Center.”

The full letter can be found here.

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FOLLOWUP Amo Second Annual Veteran Barbeque and Resource Fair for Veterans

Congressman Amo hosted his second annual Veterans Barbecue and Resource Fair to honor the service of Rhode Island’s Veterans

YESTERDAY, Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI) hosted his second annual Veterans Barbecue and Resource Fair at Slater Park in Pawtucket. The event featured resource tables with Veterans’ advocacy and support groups from across Rhode Island.

“It was an honor to gather with so many of Rhode Island’s Veterans and their families, to thank them for their service, and to help connect them with the resources they deserve,” said Amo. “Our Veterans have sacrificed much to defend our nation, and it’s our duty to support them every day.”

Background

Congressman Amo voted against President Trump’s Big Beautiful Bill with potential cuts to SNAP, Medicaid, and the Affordable Care Act. An estimated 3,000 Rhode Island Veterans received SNAP between 2021 and 2023. As of 2023, 4,200 Rhode Island Veterans were enrolled in Medicaid. He also voted against the Continuing Resolution because it failed to fund the PACT Act and support for health care to Veterans impacted by toxic exposure.

Amo introduced a bipartisan resolution to support Veteran mental health by establishing “Vets Get Outside Day.”  He also, in February, introduced a bipartisan bill with Senator Sheldon Whitehouse to recognize America’s first integrated military unit — the First Rhode Island Regiment — by posthumously awarding its members with the Congressional Gold – and  announced over $586,000 in federal funds to help homeless Veterans and their families find permanent housing.

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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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EVENTS

TODAY!  September 18 & 19 2025 – Operation Stand Down Rhode Island (OSDRI) is set to kick off its 33rd annual Veteran Assistance Event at 1010 Hartford Avenue, in Johnston, on Thursday, September 18th, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and on Friday, September 19th, from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Held at OSDRI’s offices at at 1010 Hartford Avenue, in Johnston, on Thursday, September 18th, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and on Friday, September 19th, from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Since its inception in 1993, the annual event has provided thousands of veterans with access to essential services, including health, dental, and substance abuse care, as well as employment, legal, and housing services.

The Veteran Assistance Event will be held at OSDRI’s Veteran Service Center, located at 1010 Hartford Avenue in Johnston. Veterans may access the location via RIPTA bus Route 28, which operates out of Kennedy Plaza and stops at the corner of Hartford and Bordon Avenues. Veterans and families driving to the event must park at the former Stop & Shop location (11 Commerce Way, Johnston, RI). Service Providers’ parking will be located at the lower parking lot of Market Basket (1300 Hartford Avenue, Johnston, RI). Shuttle service will be provided at both parking locations and will operate throughout the event.

Tents, tables, chairs, and access to wireless internet will be provided for all service providers. We ask that providers drop off supplies or equipment needed for the event at the Veteran Service Center prior to September 18th. Although no overnight lodging is available,  Lunch will be provided on both Thursday the 18th and Friday the 19th from 12:00 – 1:30.

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

October 6, 2025, Monday, 9:00 to 11:00, 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 [email protected]  

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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Monthly VA Disability Compensation

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

*Primary care call center:
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:

• What is a Clinical Appeal?
• A clinical appeal is a formal, written request for a review of a medical treatment decision made by your VA care team.
• It’s used when you disagree with a decision about your care or treatment.
• How to Initiate a Clinical Appeal?
• Contact the patient advocate at your VA health care facility.
• The patient advocate will guide you through the process and help you file a written appeal.
• The advocate will work with the facility’s chief medical officer and other experts to review the medical treatment decision.
• What Happens During a Clinical Appeal?
• The appeal is reviewed by a higher-level medical professional or team.
• They will consider the original decision and any new information or evidence you provide.
• The goal is to resolve the clinical dispute.
• Second-Level Appeal (VISN):
• If the facility-level appeal is not resolved to your satisfaction, you can submit a second-level appeal to the Veterans Integrated Service Network (VISN) Patient Advocate Coordinator (VPAC).
• The VPAC will conduct a final review of the case.
• Oral Appeals:
• If you prefer to discuss your appeal orally, the patient advocate or VPAC will assist you in putting your appeal in writing.
• Other Decision Review Options
• If you disagree with a VA benefit or claim decision, you can choose from 3 decision review options (Supplemental Claim, Higher-Level Review, or Board Appeal) to continue your case.
• Board of Veterans’ Appeals

If you disagree with a Board decision, you have 2 options: If you have new and relevant evidence that supports your case, you can file a Supplemental Claim, or you can appeal to the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Cla within 120 days from the date of your decision.

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Free Golf at Top Golf

Italian American War Veteran of the United States, Offering PGA Hope Graduates and Disabled Veterans Free Golfing at Top Golf Schedule

The Italian American War Veterans of the United States (ITAM) is offering free golfing to PGA Hope Graduates, logistics students attending logistics training at Naval Newport Base in Newport, RI, and combat disabled veterans at Top Golf, 120 Sockanosset Cross Rd, Cranston, RI 02920 every Friday in September and October 2025.

Eligible participants must pre-register by emailing ITAM at [email protected] or calling (401) 677-9838.

“Slots are limited at this time; however, we have reached out to potential sponsors to expand the program,”said ITAM Morale Welfare Recreation (MWT) coordinator John A Cianci.

DATES:

September 19, 2025, Friday 5:00 PM

September 26, 2025, Friday 5:00 PM

More information on the program, check back to this weekly Thursday column – and go to the Facebook page, Golf4Vets –   https://www.facebook.com/groups/1107112074631952

More Information on the PGA Hope program – https://www.pgareach.org/pgahope

 Serving Those Who Served. PGA HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere) introduces and teaches golf to Veterans and Active Duty Military to enhance their physical, mental, social and emotional well-being. Led by PGA of America Golf Professionals, the program is inclusive of a developmental 6-8 week curriculum. All programs are provided at no cost to all participating Veterans.

PGA HOPE has a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), which enables direct referrals to the PGA HOPE program as a form of therapy.

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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

V 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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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 (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.