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RI Veterans: Did you know? 12.02.26 (Olympics, Events, Resources, Benefits) – John A. Cianci
by John A. Cianci, contributing writer, veterans issues
FREE Access to 2026 Olympic Coverage:
One benefit to every veteran is tax free shopping online and bases
Did you know George Herman “Babe” Ruth served in the U.S. Army?
In 1917, Ruth was registered for the WWI draft, listing his occupation as baseball.
However, his number was never called.
In 1924 enlisted in the 104th Field Artillery Division of the New York Army National Guard before a huge crowd in Times Square.
Ruth enlisted as a private in the New York National Guard. The Army used Ruth for recruiting purposes. During his time serving in the NY National Guard, he made several visits to West Point and the Army used his fame for military fundraising and recruiting..
After serving his 3-year commitment with the NY Guard, he continued to serve, using his celebrity status to bolster support for the U.S. Army, participating in war bond drives and playing in charity games for the Army-Navy Relief Fund.
On August 23, 1942, a famous baseball-themed fundraiser for the Army-Navy relief fund was held at Yankee Stadium, featuring a memorable exhibition between legendary baseball figures Babe Ruth and Walter Johnson.
Ruth, 47, faced Johnson, 54 in a pregame, old-timers-style showdown. Ruth hit a home run into the right-field stands on the fifth pitch from Johnson, much to the delight of the crowd.
Over 69, 000 spectators attended the game, and over $80,000 was raised for the Army-Navy relief fund.
Questions from one of our readers
Q: Can the VA reduce my monthly VA disability? Dave, North Providence.
A: Yes, however, the VA must follow procedures, including notifying veterans and affording them due process.
The VA can reduce compensation if medical evidence shows a, material improvement in a condition’s severity, impacting a veteran’s ability to function. Reductions require a formal, proposed rating decision notice, allowing 30 days to request a hearing or 60 days to submit evidence. Protections apply after 5, 10, or 20 years. In addition, veterans age 55 or older have certain protections before the VA can reduce their monthly compensation.
One of the most common recommendations for reducing a VA disability is for a veteran who was temporarily upgraded to 100% monthly VA compensation.
For example, a Vietnam veteran who is diagnosed with active prostate cancer.
The VA assigns a temporary 100% disability rating for active prostate cancer, which continues during treatment and extends for six months following the cessation of surgical, X-ray, or chemotherapy procedures. After this period, a mandatory examination occurs, and the rating is reduced based on residual symptoms like urinary incontinence or frequent voiding.
Key Details on VA Prostate Cancer Ratings:
- Active Treatment Phase: 100% temporary rating.
- Post-Treatment (6 Months): The 100% rating continues for six months after treatment ends.
- Post-Six Month Evaluation: If the cancer is in remission, the rating is adjusted based on residuals (e.g., 20%–60% for urinary incontinence or 10%–40% for frequent urination).
- Erectile Dysfunction (ED): Usually rated at 0%, but often qualifies for Special Monthly Compensation (SMC-K).
- Recurrence: If the PSA rises or the cancer becomes active again, the veteran can request a return to the 100% temporary rating.
- Agent Orange: Prostate cancer is a presumptive condition for veterans exposed to Agent Orange.
If the cancer is not treated (e.g., “watchful waiting”), the 100% rating generally remains in place, though the VA may periodically re-examine the veteran.
Specific rules why the VA cannot reduce a veteran’s monthly compensation:
Veteran is over 55
The VA 55-year-old rule is an important factor to consider in this context. This rule generally provides a level of security for veterans who have reached age 55, as it reduces the likelihood that the VA will initiate a re-evaluation of a veteran’s disability status. This is based on the understanding that disabilities are less likely to improve with age, providing a safeguard to ensure your compensation remains stable as you get older.
VETTIP: If a veteran files for a claim for an increase, they could possibly face a reduction if additional evidence supports improvement in the veteran’s condition. For example, a veteran receiving 50% for PTSD files for an increase.
The VA, more than likely, will request the veteran attend an evaluation. During this evaluation, the examiner notes conditions that have actually improved. Moreover, the examiner notes the veteran has not been taking medication or going for treatment for several years.
- Before filing for an increase, the veteran should review the VA decision that granted the disability. Most decisions will detail the veteran’s conditions and why he or she was rated at the percentage. For example, a veteran rating 50% for PTSD:
50%: Reduced reliability and productivity, panic attacks more than once a week, and difficulty with work/social relationships.
A simple internet search, VA rating for PTSD:
A PTSD ratings range from 0% to 100% (0, 10, 30, 50, 70, 100), determined by the severity of symptoms and their impact on work and social functioning. A 100% rating indicates total occupational and social impairment, while 0% means a diagnosis exists but symptoms do not interfere with daily life.
- 0%: Diagnosed, but symptoms are not severe enough to interfere with work or require continuous medication.
- 10%: Mild or transient symptoms that decrease work efficiency only during significant stress.
- 30%: Occasional decrease in work efficiency and intermittent inability to perform tasks due to anxiety, depression, or panic attacks.
- 50%: Reduced reliability and productivity, panic attacks more than once a week, and difficulty with work/social relationships.
- 70%: Significant, near-constant, or severe, such as suicidal ideation or inability to manage routine, resulting in serious impairment.
- 100%: Total impairment; symptoms include gross impairment in thought/communication, persistent delusions, or danger to self/others.
Prior to filing for the increase, the veteran should have understood (1) the conditions that warranted his current rating, (2) conditions that could warrant an increase to a higher rating, if a higher rating is available.
VETTIP: A rating for tinnitus can not be higher than 10%. Simply put, filing a claim for an increase will be denied since the law does not allow a higher rating. However, a veteran with 10% tinnitus rating can file for secondary conditions. For example, anxiety, headaches, and sleep issues from the ringing and or sounds in his ears.
Disability 5-Year Rule?
The VA disability 5-year rule, outlined in 38 C.F.R. § 3.344, provides important protections for veterans whose disability ratings have been in place for five years or more. This rule prevents the VA from reducing a veteran’s rating without clear and convincing evidence that the veteran’s condition has improved under normal living conditions.
Once a disability rating has been in effect for at least five years, it is considered stabilized. This means the VA can’t reduce the rating unless it can prove, based on reliable medical evidence, that the veteran’s condition has improved in a way that is sustained and permanent. The VA must demonstrate that the improvement is not likely to revert or fluctuate.
The 5-year rule is an essential safeguard for veterans, providing peace of mind that their benefits won’t be reduced without a thorough examination of their medical history and an assurance that their condition has truly stabilized. However, the rule does not prevent the VA from reevaluating a disability. The VA may request an exam if there is reason to believe a condition has materially changed, but it cannot lower the rating based on an exam alone unless it meets the legal criteria under 38 C.F.R. § 3.344.
This protection ensures that veterans’ ratings remain consistent unless there is solid proof that their condition has improved in a significant and lasting way. If your disability rating has been stable for five years or more, the VA is required to meet a higher burden of proof before it can reduce your benefits.
Other protections include the following:
The 10-year rule: The VA cannot nullify a service connection for a disability without evidence of fraud or official records disqualifying the connection
The 20-year rule: The VA cannot reduce a disability that has had the same rating continuously for 20 or more years without evidence of fraud.
Permanent and total disability: This status indicates that the veteran’s disability will likely not improve over time. The VA cannot reduce this rating without proof of improvement, which is rare in such cases.
In conclusion, if a veteran’s condition has worsened, file for an increase. However, understand why your current disability is rated at a certain percentage, and the conditions that warrant a higher rating.
Simply put, just because your neighbor gets a 100% for the same VA disability, don’t believe you are entitled to the same rating.
VETTIP: A veteran reached out to me for assistance. He was challenging a reduction. Despite being over 70 years old, collecting the same rating for over 30 years, and already receiving 100% VA monthly compensation. He attended a VA-endorsed event and was encouraged by a VSO to file for additional compensation.
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Information on the National Desert Shield and Storm Memorial
The Desert Shield and Desert Storm Memorial is a new national monument to be built at the National Mall in Washington D.C.The groundbreaking ceremony occurred on July 14, 2022.
Although we have been constructing the various elements of the memorial off-site for several years, on-site construction has begun. The dedication will be October 24, 2026.
National Desert Storm and Desert Shield War Memorial Act – Authorizes the National Desert Storm Memorial Association to establish a commemorative work on federal land in the District of Columbia to commemorate and honor those who, as members of the Armed Forces, served on active duty in support of Operation Desert Storm or Operation Desert Shield.
Construction of the Memorial is led by the National Desert Storm Memorial Association, a 501(c)3 organization in Washington, D.C. The association is led by a Board of Directors comprised of veterans who served during Operation Desert Storm.
More information on monument go to https://www.ndswm.org/ and https://www.mynbc5.com/article/desert-storm-memorial-emily-bedard-rob-eccleston/69295603
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LOCAL EVENTS
February 13, 2026, Providence VA Medical Center – 10am to 11:30am –
February 16, 2026, FREE Lunch for Veterans and their guests,11:30 to 1:00, Perella’s Ristorante, 310 Metacom Ave, Warren. Lunch will be a Woonsocket “Dynamite Sandwich.
A dynamite sandwich consists of ground beef with red and green bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, garlic, and crushed red pepper, which justifies the spicy-sounding name. And only in Rhode Island, “thing”; Calise bakery dynamite rolls make and sell the dynamite rolls at Lil General and markets, making the sandwich more of a Rhode Island icon.
“Woonsocket Dynamite” sandwich made on Calise Bakery dynamite roll.
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March 2, 2026, Monday 9:00-11:00 a.m. ROMA, 310 Atwells Ave, Providence, RI The Italian American War Veterans of the United States hosts its monthly veteran coffee social at ROMA, always the first Monday of the month. ITAM Veteran service officer/advocate will be available to assist any veteran or family member needing assistance with VA, federal, state, local, or private benefits. All assistance is FREE of charge. All veterans are invited.
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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
FAQ Veteran Questions On VA Health Care, VA Disability, Long Term/Assisted Living Care/ Discounts/ State Benefits
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
The purpose of the U.S. Army Retired Soldier Handbook is to provide current and updated information for Retired Soldiers and their families, about the benefits and entitlements they’ve earned through their years of faithful service.
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FAQ Medicare For Veterans
Do I have to sign up for VA Healthcare if I have VA Healthcare?
Reasons to sign up ( if you are not receiving VA disability or less than 30% VA rated)
- Unless you are 100% and or receiving VA disability to cover dental, the VA health care program does not include dental coverage.
- Unless you receiving 70 % or more, VA Healthcare does not include paying for long term care.
- If you are hospitalized and need rehabilitation, VA has limited options of in state facilities, and if you choose a local facility to make it convenient for your family to visit you while rehabbing, you could have to pay $250 – $500 a day during rehab.
VETTIP I assisted a veteran trying to get reimburse by the VA for over $20, 000, as his only option for rehabilitation after a emergency hospital visit was either in West Haven Ct. or New Jersey. VA refused to reimburse, since he was offered options
I have VA Health Care, why should I sign up for Medicare A and B?
Monthly VA Disability Compensation
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
Telephone Number Directory
Make An Appointment:
Annual Physical
*Primary care call center:
Direct: 401-273-7100 or 401-457-3336
Q: I was unhappy with service at the Providence VA?
A: 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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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 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:
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″ ³ ¨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: 401-6676200, Email: [email protected]
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VETERAN 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’s name, location, and military and veteran discount offered.
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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)6779VET(9838)
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To read all columns in this series go to: https://2×8.ea2.myftpupload.com/john–acianci/
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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.