RI Veterans: Did you know? 16.04.26: New Memorial, Airport Lounge, VA, Events – John A. Cianci

by John A. Cianci, veterans writer

Did you know that at TF Greene Airport, a FREE Military Lounge is available for all members of the military, veterans, and their families?

Members of the military, veterans, and their families have a safe and secure area to wait for arriving and or departing planes. In addition, the lounge is an area for transiting members of the military 

can seek assistance on transportation and also help with transportation.

 

“Our organization, Italian American War Veterans of the United States, receives dozens of calls from members of the military traveling to Naval Station Newport,” said John. Ciancik. Veteran Service 

Officer/Advocate.”We tell them to go to the military lounge, and one of the volunteers can assist you.” 

 

The RIMO is seeking volunteers to help staff the lounge. More information on volunteering call (401) 426-9792 or (401) 413-2511, or go to RIMO website, https://www.rimo401.com/volunteer/

Make a Difference in the Lives of Veterans and Their Families

At the Rhode Island Military Organization, we believe in honoring those who’ve served by supporting them when they return home. When you volunteer with us, you’re not just giving your time—you’re offering hope, connection, and gratitude to those who’ve given so much for our country.

Ways You Can Help

• Volunteer at the Military Lounge at TF Green International Airport

  • It’s been more than a decade since a team of veterans decided Rhode Island needed a space to welcome and honor military personnel and their families as they traveled through our beautiful state. It started in 2013, when we reached out to the RI Airport Corporation (RIAC) requesting space for a military lounge. RIAC offered the space that is now the Cardi Welcome Room and the Smith Extended-Stay Room. A national organization known for their military lounges declined to provide backing, stating our market was too small, so we decided to give it a go on our own. On Wednesday, September 6, 2023, we celebrated 10 years of service to our state, military, veterans, and their families. Over the last ten years, RIMO has grown to focus on three missions: the lounge, job placement for transitioning military, and VA enrollment services. We have welcomed more than 65,000 guests to the lounge, and that number continues to grow thanks to great people like you! In closing, please always remember the important service you will be providing. We offer our young military members and veterans a place to peacefully relax while waiting for their flights.

• Event Assistance – Pitch in at community events, fundraisers, and ceremonies.

Why Volunteer?

• Make a real, tangible impact in someone’s life

• Join a community of passionate, service-minded individuals

• Show your appreciation for those who served

Get Involved Today

• No matter your background, skills, or schedule, there’s a place for you here. Ready to step up and serve those who served us?

Steps to Becoming a Volunteer

• Obtain a background check, BCI (Click Here for Instructions)
  • Bring the completed BCI with you to Orientation

• Complete an on-line Airport Lounge Application (Click Here)

• Attend a brief volunteer training session
  • Contact [email protected] to schedule a 30–45-minute Orientation meeting at the Airport Lounge
• Our Volunteer Handbook can be accessed here.

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RI Veteran News

Honoring Women Warriors

From website Mission: Boots to Briefcase

On March 26th, I had the pleasure of attending the Women Warriors’ Luncheon, sponsored by veteran nonprofit Mission: Boots to Briefcases at the Quonset Officers Club. As a member of the board and planning committee, I was a part of the team that spent months helping prepare for the event. But reflecting now, I do so not as an organizer, but as an observer. Someone who had the privilege of moving through the room, speaking with attendees, and capturing the day as it unfolded. 

Looking at the program for the Women Warriors’ Luncheon, it appeared at first glance that the event would follow a traditional script for military events, opening with the posting of colors, Pledge of Allegiance, and National Anthem. As the Luncheon started, and attendees were asked to rise, it seemed as if this event would stick to that script. The first indication that attendees were in for something new came with the soft beat of a drum, echoing from the back of the room. As the drum beat built, it was accompanied by a soulful chant rolling across the space, and a soft jingle of bells that were the dog tags of women veterans sewn to their skirts. Turning as one, the crowd’s attention was drawn to something few in the room had seen before, the presentation of the colors by an all-female honor guard, the Native American Women Warriors. Marching in step to the Comanche Flag song, the four women came to attention before the crowd, before presenting the colors as the National Anthem came to an end. Dressed in traditional, handcrafted regalia, the honor guard’s entrance was both beautiful and captivating, setting the stage for a ceremony honoring four equally remarkable female veterans who, after completing their military careers, continued their service in the community. 

As the National Anthem ended and the honor guard took their seats, the ceremony proceeded through the familiar routine of introductions and opening remarks, leading into lunch. While the invocation and setting of the POW table are always moving, it was the presentation of the awards after lunch that was truly remarkable. The presentation began with the announcement of the 2026 Lifetime Achievement Award for Women’s Advocacy, which was presented posthumously to Judge Frank Caprio. Known as Rhode Island’s favorite judge, famous for his caring and compassionate nature, Judge Caprio began his career in the RI National Guard, where he served for eight years. This spirit was remembered as the crowd watched Judge Caprio’s “The Most Important Speech You’ll Ever Hear,” which set the tone for the ceremony to come. In the speech, Judge Caprio issued a call to service, challenging viewers to honor those who came before them and to better the lives of those in need. He reminded listeners that at the end of our lives, when judgment comes, we will be judged by the “dreams that we made come true for others”, the hope we inspire in others, and the difference we make in each other’s lives. The speech served not only as a call to service, but it also set the stage for the main ceremony, which honored female veterans from various backgrounds. Each of whom embodies the spirit of service and dedication to making a difference in their communities. 

The honors started with Ms. Raven Aldaco, a US Army veteran who served for four years as a military police officer in Korea and Texas. A student at Rhode Island College, Ms. Aldaco was nominated for her work on campus, and in the community while pursuing her master’s degree. In a soft-spoken manner, Ms. Aldaco rose to accept her award, thanking the female veterans who had paved the way for her to serve. Though she spoke modestly of her work, it was clear to everyone in the room that her contributions, from supporting student veterans to working with homeless and LGBTQ+ youth, were deeply impactful. 

The next honoree, Officer Crystal Arel of the Newport Police Department, served in the US Army, where she was on active duty from 1999 to 2003; her time in the service included a deployment to Baghdad in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Those in attendance marveled as the presenters spoke of the nearly endless list of community service activities. While not on duty, Officer Arel volunteers with the Warren Fire Dept., supports the Special Olympics Polar Plunge, takes part in the Police Unity Tour, works as an advocate for DCYF and female juvenile groups, and serves as an instructor at the RI Municipal Academy, amongst many other activities. Strong and soft spoken appeared to be the theme with the first two honorees as Officer Arel accepted her award, speaking for a total of six seconds, just long enough to thank everyone who came before her and everyone in attendance. Here was someone who clearly let her actions speak for themself, and watching the faces of her fellow officers in attendance, it was obvious that she held the deep admiration of her peers who watched her acceptance with pride. 

The day’s next award recipient was Major Joanne Barrett, RN, BSN, a RI Air National Guard veteran who served her country for 24 years as a combat medic and immunization specialist. After leaving the service, Major Barrett joined the Providence VA as the Women Veterans Program Manager. Speaking to the audience, Maj. Barrett brought the significance of the luncheon into perspective as she spoke about what military service meant to her as a woman, telling the crowd that advocating for women veterans was not just her job, it was her calling. Maj. Barrett told the crowd that she fought “every day to make sure our women veterans receive the care they earned through their service and the care they deserve as leaders, mothers, sisters, and survivors. I ensure that they are seen, heard, respected, and fully supported because for too long women veterans had to fight twice, once to serve and again to be recognized.” Looking around the room, it was clear that the sentiment and fight to be seen and heard was one that countless female veterans in attendance not only understood but had experienced during their service, and now as leaders in their communities. 

As Maj. Barrett took her seat, Chief Waldron of the Rhode Island Indian Council rose to introduce the day’s final honoree, Ms. Cheryl Dupris, a Native American from the Sioux Nation and the Cheyenne River Sioux Reservation in South Dakota who served in the US Army for 33 years. After being brought forward in her wheelchair, Ms. Dupris proudly recounted her service. Listening to her speak, it was clear that Ms. Dupris had been a trailblazer for future female service members and it was equally apparent that she was part of the generation that Ms. Aldaco had thanked earlier in her own acceptance. Over the next few minutes, Ms. Dupris took the crowd on a remarkable journey while recounting her career. Hanging on her every word, the crowd listened on in amazement as she recounted her time jumping out of military aircraft as a member of the 82nd Airborne Division. Even more remarkable than this image was the fact that when Ms. Dupris enlisted, she had served alongside only 125 other female service members. With a career that spanned from 1977 through 9/11 and beyond, Ms. Dupris spoke of her time in the 82nd Airborne, driving tractor-trailers in Harlem, and time spent doing disaster response following Hurricanes Katrina and Rita as a member of the New York National Guard. Following her retirement, she opened a PTSD Clinic for Native American veterans, served as a member of the Veterans Advisory Board, and continues to support the Native American military community at the NY Indian Council. Here was someone who had dedicated their entire life to service, and was so moved to learn that she would be honored at an event for female veterans, she discharged herself from a hospital in New York City to attend.

All told, the four acceptance speeches lasted for less than half an hour, but their service spanned decades. It was a privilege to witness more than 100 guests come together to recognize these women: a young leader serving her peers, a quiet professional admired by those around her, a Major advocating daily for women veterans, and a trailblazer whose career paved the way for others. As the ceremony closed, the Native American Women Warriors once again took their place, leading the audience through the final honors. As the drumbeat returned and voices filled the room, attendees followed their every step; one last powerful reminder of the strength, courage, and leadership of women who have served.

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Purple Heart Monument Project Announced to Honor America’s Combat-Wounded Veterans

A new community initiative, the Purple Heart Monument Project, has been launched by the RI Commandery of the Military Order of Foreign Wars, to create a lasting tribute to the brave men and women who were wounded or killed in service to the United States.

The planned monument, to be placed in the RI Veterans’ Cemetery, will serve as a place of reflection, remembrance, and education—honoring recipients of the Purple Heart while helping future generations understand the true cost of freedom. Designed as a permanent and meaningful landmark, the monument will recognize the courage and sacrifice of service members across all branches and eras.

In a unique historical connection, the monument will also feature the Badge of Military Merit, established by General George Washington in 1782—the nation’s first military decoration and the predecessor to the Purple Heart. This inclusion highlights the enduring legacy of honoring sacrifice from the founding of the United States to the present day.

The legacy project is also being developed as part of the commemoration of America’s upcoming 250th anniversary, making it a timely and significant addition to the community’s efforts to celebrate the nation’s history and values.

Organizers are currently seeking community support, including financial contributions, sponsorships, and partnerships with local organizations to bring the monument to life. Opportunities are also available for educational programming and public engagement tied to the project.

“This monument is more than a structure—it is a symbol of gratitude and a commitment to never forget those who have given so much for our country,” said Ron Barnes, Commander of the Rhode Island Commandery of the Military Order of Foreign Wars.

Community members and organizations interested in supporting the Purple Heart Monument Project or learning more are encouraged to contact COL Ron Barnes, Co-chair, Purple Heart Monument Project, RI Commander. Military Order of Foreign Wars, 508-958-6781 [email protected]

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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

Monday, April 20, 2026 Free lunch for veterans and guests, Perella’s Ristorante, 11:30 to 1:00 pm, 311 Metacom Ave, Warren  RI. Chicken Alfredo, salad, and dessert prepared and served by the Italian American War Veterans of the US and volunteers. For more information, contact ITAM (401) 677-9838 or email [email protected]

Saturday, April 25, 5 to 11 p.m., R.I. National Guard’s Salute to Spring Military Ball, at Rhodes on the Pawtuxet, 60 Rhodes Place, Cranston.  Cocktails from 5 to 6:30 p.m., dinner at 7, followed by dancing. Formal attire for civilians (suit and tie, cocktail dress or gown); military should wear semiformal dress uniform or mess dress. Dinner is a family-style meal. Tickets cost $65 (plus a $6.09 service fee) per person. Online ticket sales only (no refunds). No in-person or “will call” ticket sales. Buy tickets at tinyurl.com/msfdn2nh.

Tuesday , April 28, 6pm to 730pm Veterans Coffee Social, Warwick Public Library, Warwick, RI. Learn more about a future Vietnam Veteran Memorial in Providence RI

Saturday, May 16, 6:30 to 10 p.m.; Pasta Dinner and Show to benefit Honor Flight, hosted by R.I. Blue Star Moms, American Legion Post 43, 662 West Shore Road, Warwick. Join Blue Star Moms for a night of food, fun and entertainment to benefit future Rhode Island Fire Chief Honor Flights out of Rhode Island T.F. Green International Airport. Tickets are $25 per person; tables of eight cost $200. For details or to buy tickets, contact [email protected], or call Betty Leach at (401) 426-9792.  If your schedule only allows for attendance during the cocktail hour, you do not need to purchase tickets. For additional information, please email [email protected].

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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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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

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

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)

1. Unless you are 100% and or receiving VA disability to cover dental, the VA health care program does not include dental coverage.
2. Unless you receiving 70 % or more, VA Healthcare does not include paying for long term care.
3. 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– 1stâ€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 Youâ€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 Youâ€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/    

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.___

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/