RI Veterans Voice: Issues, Resources, Events. Landing Zone Bronco News, 11.06.26 -John A. Cianci

by John A. Cianci, RINewsToday Veterans writer

Burrillville Town Council Approves Landing Zone Bronco/ Veteran & First Responder Resource Community Center

Last night at the regularly scheduled Town Council meeting held at the Town Building, the Town Council unanimously approved Landing Zone Bronco’s application for a new victualing license for Italian American War Veterans of the United States d/b/a Landing Zone Bronco to operate at 1950 Broncos Highway (Burrillville Assessor’s map 130, lot 001).

After testimony by John Cianci, State Commander, Italian American War Veterans of the United States (ITAM), and consideration of a motion to grant a new retail class D liquor license to Italian American War Veterans of the United States d/b/a Landing Zone Bronco to apply at 1950 Broncos Highway (Burrillville Assessor’s map 130, lot 001).

Cianci testified that the organization’s history is a congressional charter organization, IRS 501 ( c) 19, and that its current programs include a schedule of regular meetings at 10 nursing and assisted living facilities in 3 states. He detailed yesterday at St. Antoine Community  Senior in North Smithfield, the ITAM organization and volunteers provided a Lasagna and Lobster lunch for almost 20 veterans.

“One of the veterans at the facility is turning 101, and as the oldest veteran, he jokingly said he would love to have a lobster lunch for his birthday,” said Cianci.

The ITAM organization fulfilled the WWII veteran’s wish, as part of the annual Lasagna and Lobster events sponsored by Side by Side Charitable Organization. Last year, ITAM organization served over 200 lobsters and 25 lbs. of lasagna to veterans living in long-term care facilities.

Cianci detailed earlier in the day that the ITAM organization and volunteers met and had lunch with veterans living at West Shore Nursing and Rehabilitation. The oldest veteran at that facility chose to have Chinese for lunch.

He explained to the council that approval of the ITAM organization’s licensing can be extended to other long-term care facilities in Rhode Island. During COVID, the ITAM organization’s outreach program unexpectedly discovered that veterans living in long-term care and assisted living seem to have been forgotten.

The visits to the facilities provide camaraderie that many veterans miss since being discharged from the military. Families and friends of veterans living in long-term facilities can schedule lunches and small gatherings at the facility, which will be FREE to any family or friend picking up one of the veterans living at any long-term care facility. For more information on this program, contact John directly, (401) 677-9838.

Cianci provided the council with his vision of LZ Bronco if the council approved the licenses. Detailing his vision included opening the facility to the public a few days a week, in addition to hosting special events or collaborating with other non-profits to assist with their fundraising.

Additionally the facility has a Veteran Resource Center to help veterans understand their benefits and the necessary paperwork to apply for Department of Veterans Affairs benefits, federal, state, and local benefits. In May, almost 100 veterans stopped by, and Cianci helped 50 of them with the necessary paperwork to apply for a benefit they earned.

The organization has applied for a Food Service License from the Rhode Island Health Department.

“With approval of the Rhode Island Health Department for food operations, we are planning to be open on Wednesday and Sunday,” said Cianci.

The group plans to have NY-style hot dogs, RI Saugy dogs, and other items on Wednesday and Sunday, with a program called “Weiners by Warrior” on Wednesday and “Pasta by Patriots” on Sunday.

Additionally, the facility will be available for indoor or outdoor children’s birthday parties and other special events, including a collation.

Cianci explained to the council that he does not anticipate any issues with the Rhode Island Department of Health approving the application. He detailed that the Department of Veterans Affairs provided the schooling and training for him to obtain his Food Service Manager’s License, and that he is already licensed by the State of Rhode Island as a Food Service Manager.

Cianci told the council about the selection of the name LZ Bronco; LZ Bronco was a major base in Vietnam. The name selection was a suggestion of Cianci’s Vietnam veteran friends. Moreover, the facility is located on Bronco Highway, and the mascot of the Town of Burrillville school is the Bronco.

The facility will offer members MWR (Morale, Welfare, and Recreation) as they did on active duty. For example, the club will have a tool shed where veterans can sign out tools for their homes, such as a tile cutter or a commercial weed whacker. In addition, veterans will be able to sign out fishing equipment at no charge.

Members will be able to sign out at no charge tables, chairs, a bouncy house, and other items used for parties.

Another shed will have a collection of old military uniforms donated for those veterans who wish to be buried in uniform.

“Almost monthly, I receive a call from a family looking for a military uniform to bury their loved one in, per the deceased veteran’s final wish,” said Cianci. Additionally, he added that he has spent over $ 5,000 of his personal funds to assist the families. for buying uniforms and the needed decorations to fulfill the wish of the deceased veteran

One of the council members wondered if the facility would be opened to the public. Cianci explained, yes, in accordance with IRS rules to ensure the organization maintains their 501 ( c ) 19 non-profit status.

“IRS requires that at least 75% of  members must be past or present U.S Armed Forces members, and 97.5 % must be veterans, cadets, or their spouses/descendants (individuals who are directly related to a person through bloodlines, including children, grandchildren, and further generations)

The organization is planning an official grand opening immediately after receiving full approval from the Rhode Island Department of Health.

The organization and local veterans have spent countless hours preparing the facility for local veterans and first responders.

 

Each booth has the theme of one of the military branches, except for the two booths, which have the themes of police and firefighters.

Upon entering the facility, all will know you are in a facility dedicated to serving those who are serving and have served.

 

In conclusion, LZ Bronco Veterans, First Responders, and Volunteers appreciate the Town of Burrillville approving the licenses, and rest assured, LZ Bronco will become a destination not only that veterans want to see and be part of, but also all Americans who support those who are serving and have served.

This wall in LZ Bronco represents all Rhode islanders who were POW/MIA in World War II, Korea, and Vietnam ( no Rhode Islander has been a POW/MIA since the Vietnam War). Each of the frames is the veteran’s story: when he was captured and whether he died in captivity or was released.

Example story of SSG James M Ray, Woonsocket, RI, who never came home after being captured and held.

More information on LZ Bronco, Harrisville, RI

Facebook:   LZ Bronco

How to find out about events at LZ Bronco: Follow Cianci’s weekly column posted every Thursday by RINEWSTODAY.com

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Veteran & First Responder Resource Community Center (VFRRCC) and will be known as LZ Bronco to all.

The sign is a picture of the original sign in Vietnam for LZ Bronco.

LZ Bronco is located at 1950 Bronco Highway, Burrillville RI.

The facility is a former restaurant that was known for many years as Mr. Doughboy and closed in 2013. Mr. Doughboy was a destination for many Rhode Island families – a place to grab a cone, play mini-golf, drive a go-kart, hit some balls in the batting cage, and play some arcade games.

A group of veterans has completed redoing the interior with military and first-responder décor. Booths and tables have décor representing the military branch of service. Overhead lights were custom-made by a local air force veteran, Mike’s Collectibles.

“We love to fix-up the mini-golf area to offer free use by veterans and local children,” ‘said John Cianci, State Commander/Veteran Service officer for the Italian American War Veterans of US, “We have sought assistance from Home Depot -Team Depot, that support veterans and local communities, to team up with our organization’s volunteers to repair and paint the miniature golf area.”

Cianci believes that 1-2 days with 10-12 volunteers can complete the miniature golf area and hopes to schedule the last weekend of June for the project.

If the miniature golf area is redone, the organization will offer free use to the Town of Burrillville youth and other organizations with which ITAM will collaborate. Cianci has also reached out to the PGA Hope program, which has a golfing program for youth.

The main use of the facility will be to support the Italian American War Veterans of the US (ITAM) mission, serving veterans and their families. . it will be operated as a non-profit, with space used to support ITAM’s outreach program, Leave No Veteran Alone and monthly schedule free veteran breakfast, lunch and dinner (once the facility receives approval from Rhode Island Department of Health to utilize fully equipped commercial kitchen) and local community events.

Additionally, the facility will support a number of ongoing veterans initiatives, and it is on track to become a club for the community, where former service members can find camaraderie, partner organizations can collaborate, and locals can occasionally grab some grub while supporting a great cause.

Pending approval by local and state, here is the summer schedule for LZ Bronco, which will be opened to non-members:

On the first Monday of every month, car show .

Every Wednesday of the month, Wieners by Warriors; NY style hot wieners, saugy dogs, kids meals and salads offered for sit-in or take out.

Every Sunday,” Pasta by Patriots”. Take out only, pasta will be offered for sale by the pound.  à la carte sides include meatballs, sausage, and chicken parmigiana.

Other events and a schedule will be posted on the group’s Facebook page, LZ Bronco and every Thursday in the weekly veterans  column posted on RINEWSTODAY.com.

Landing Zone Bronco (LZ Bronco) is scheduled to have a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Flag Day, June 14, 2026. Following the ribbon-cutting ceremony, the newly opened resource community center’s veterans, family, and friends will celebrate the birthday of one of their members, WWII Veteran Caster Salemi, who will turn 104.

If you are seeking more information on LZ Bronco, email [email protected] or call (401) 677-9838.

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Veteran News

Wreaths Across America and JIMMY Movie Announce Partnership in Honor of a Shared Legacy of Service

As JIMMY Trailer Debuts in Jimmy Stewart’s Hometown, Wreaths Across America Joins as Official Partner of the Highly Anticipated Film Opening November 6, 2026

COLUMBIA FALLS, Maine, June 09, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — (COLUMBIA FALLS, Maine) June 9, 2026 — Wreaths Across America (WAA), the nonprofit organization dedicated to honoring and remembering fallen heroes through the placement of veterans’ wreaths at participating cemeteries across the country, today announced a partnership with Burns & Co. Entertainment in support of JIMMY, the highly anticipated feature film based on the life of beloved Hollywood legend and World War II hero Jimmy Stewart. The trailer, which recently debuted in Indiana, Pennsylvania, Stewart’s hometown, was celebrated by the film star KJ Apa and Jimmy’s daughter and Executive Producer, Kelly Stewart-Harcourt.

The partnership reflects a natural alignment with this year’s WAA theme, “Remember Me,” which highlights the individual lives behind America’s military service as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary. Jimmy Stewart, who chose military service over the height of his Hollywood fame, embodied the values of duty, sacrifice, and love of country that define Wreaths Across America’s work to honor those who served. The film, opening nationwide on November 6, 2026, tells that untold story and WAA is proud to help bring it to audiences across the country.

“Jimmy Stewart lived the values we work every day to honor, and he served when he didn’t have to,” says Karen Worcestor, Executive Director of Wreaths Across America. “Jimmy never forgot where he came from or what his country meant to him, and I hope this gives a new generation the chance to meet the man behind the legend. We are proud to stand behind this film and help make sure veterans, military families, and all Americans have the chance to see it.”

Wreaths Across America has established a dedicated JIMMY sponsorship page, directing $5 of every $17 wreath sponsorship to support the film’s Give Back campaign, which provides donated movie tickets to active-duty military, veterans, and their families through Vet Tix, a veteran-led non-profit. The organizations will also explore additional collaboration, including cast and crew appearances on Wreaths Across America Radio in advance of the film’s release.

“Wreaths Across America remembers the men and women who have served our nation, every year, at our cemeteries around the world,” said Aaron Burns, director of JIMMY and founder of Burns & Co. “The team at JIMMY is honored to support and partner with Wreaths Across America to recognize all those who have served our nation, to include Jimmy Stewart, whose story, as he said himself, like so many others of the Greatest Generation, is of an ordinary man who lives in service to others and with faith to achieve a wonderful life.”

The all-star cast led by KJ Apa as Stewart, also includes Kara Killmer as Lady Julia; Neal McDonough as Stewart’s father, Alexander; Max Casella as Frank Capra; Jason Alexander as Louis B. Mayer; Christopher McDonald as Lionel Barrymore; Sarah Drew as Hedda Hopper; Rob Riggle as Colonel Terrill; Julian Works as Second Lieutenant Martinez; Jemma Donovan as Ginger Rogers and Jen Lilley as Gloria Stewart. Aaron Burns directed the movie from a script by Justin Strawhand. The film is produced by David Cook, Angela Galgani Sullivan, Jack McClintock and John Norton.

JIMMY opens nationwide through Fathom Entertainment on November 6, 2026. Tickets will be available this September. Sponsorships can be made at www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/Jimmy.

To learn more, visit jimmythemovie.com or follow @jimmystewartmovie on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok, and @jimmymovie2026 on X.

About Wreaths Across America
Wreaths Across America is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded to continue and expand the annual wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery begun by Maine businessman Morrill Worcester in 1992. The organization’s yearlong mission – Remember, Honor, Teach – is carried out in part each year by coordinating wreath-laying ceremonies in December at Arlington, as well as at thousands of veterans’ cemeteries and other locations in all 50 states and beyond.

For more information or to sponsor a wreath, visit www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/Jimmy.

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RI Veteran News

	Assembly passes Felag, Furtado bill to allow transfer of disabled veterans’ plates to spouses
	STATE HOUSE – The General Assembly today passed legislation sponsored by Senate Special Legislation and Veterans’ Affairs Committee Chairman Walter S. Felag Jr. and Rep. Jenni A. Furtado that would allow disabled veterans’ license plates to be transferred to spouses. “A veteran’s license plate is a true badge of honor for many individuals in our state and this legislation will allow families of veterans to continue expressing their pride in their family member’s time served in our armed forces.  It’s a common-sense bill that will keep recognizing our veterans for the real heroes that they are, regardless of whether they are still able to drive or not,” said Senator Felag (D-Dist. 10, Warren, Bristol, Tiverton). “To many veterans and their families, a veteran plate is a treasured symbol of the sacrifices made while serving our state and country.  If a veteran is unable to drive or passes away, it’s important that the family can continue using the plate to recognize their loved one’s service,” said Representative Furtado (D-Dist. 64, East Providence, Pawtucket). The legislation (2026-S 2414, 2026-H 8614) would allow the transfer of a disabled veteran’s license plate to the veteran’s spouse if the veteran is no longer able to operate a vehicle.  Additionally, a disabled veteran license plate may be issued to an eligible veteran or their spouse. The bills now head to the governor for consideration.

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Local Events

Friday, June 12, noon to 3 p.m., Veteran Assistance Expo at Providence VA Medical Center, 830 Chalkstone Ave, Providence. Get assistance enrolling in VA health care, applying for disability compensation, and accessing other benefits you’ve earned. From noon to 1 p.m., VA Providence will also host a New Veteran Orientation at the Providence VA Medical Center. This offers veterans a one-stop opportunity to learn about the full range of services available to them. Veterans will have the opportunity to enroll in VA health care and meet directly with Veterans Benefits Administration representatives.

Saturday, June 13, Tiverton library – Talk on Revolutionary War Art – Jill Sanford of Art for Your Mind FREE art appreciation program looking at images from the Boston Massacre to the surrender at Yorktown.

Famous people, places and events of the Revolutionary War through the eyes of artists who experienced it, from the Boston Massacre to the surrender at Yorktown. The program is open to the public and will be held at the library at 34 Roosevelt Ave. in Tiverton. The program is supported by a grant funded in association with “The American Revolution,” a film by Ken Burns, Sarah Botstein and David Schmidt. More information is available through the Tiverton Public Library.

 

Sunday, June 14, Burrillville – Landing Zone Bronco (LZ Bronco) ribbon-cutting ceremony on Flag Day – MORE to COME

Tuesdays, June 16 (July 7 and August 18) – Veterans Program at the Warwick Public Library

The Veterans Coffee Social program began when Librarian Katie Arnold and veteran Joseph Coffey partnered to create an event that brings veterans together to share stories, connect with local veterans organizations, and learn about library resources. Details HERE:

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Purple Heart Monument Project 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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Volunteer Opportunities for Veterans:

Serve and socialize with Rhode Island veterans by volunteering. See below for opportunities:

VETTIP Volunteers are provided verification of community hours, which can be used for required government programs requiring community service hours.

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 the 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– St. Antonie Residence, 10 Rhodes Ave, North Smithfield, RI

3^rd Tuesday, Morgan Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center, 80 Morgan Ave Johnston, RI

4^th Tuesday – 1st Friday-Benchmark at Forge Hill, 4 Forge Hill Road, Franklin, MA

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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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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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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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)

 

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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.

John’s column, RI Veterans Voice appears in RINewsToday every Thursday:  https://rinewstoday.com/john-a-cianci/