RI Veterans Voice: 16.07.26 – Agent Orange Info, Local Events, Resources, Discounts – John A. Cianci

by John A. Cianci, RINewsToday Veterans writer

Start off with questions from one of our readers.

Q: My husband served in the US Navy on USS Iwo Jima (LPH-2).  He died of prostate cancer, and I was told his cancer could be linked to Agent Orange exposure, however, he never served on land in Vietnam or left the ship. Am I eligible for any type of benefits from the VA? Jane, Harrisville RI

A: First, I recommend you do an internet Google search, typing “USS Iwo Jima Blue Water Veteran Ship”. Results:

The results:

Yes, USS Iwo Jima (LPH-2) is officially considered a qualifying vessel under the Blue Water Navy regulations.

The VA recognizes the USS Iwo Jima as an amphibious assault ship that operated within the designated 12-nautical-mile offshore zone of the Republic of Vietnam during the Vietnam War.

Because it is officially on this list, veterans who served aboard the USS Iwo Jima within the qualifying dates (between January 9, 1962, and May 7, 1975) are granted a presumption of exposure to Agent Orange. This means if you are filing a disability claim for any presumptive health conditions linked to Agent Orange, you only need to prove you served aboard the ship during those dates—you do not have to prove you were individually exposed.

Prostate cancer is a presumption condition for exposure to Agent Orange. The VA automatically presumes prostate cancer is linked to Agent Orange exposure. Veterans who served in qualifying locations (such as Vietnam, the Korean demilitarized zone, or specific inland waterways) do not need to prove a medical connection. The VA assigns a 100% disability rating while the cancer is active and for six months following treatment.

Qualifying Conditions Associated with Agent Orange Exposure

VA presumes the following conditions are associated with exposure to Agent Orange:

• AL Amyloidosis
• Chronic B-Cell Leukemia
• Chloracne
• Diabetes Mellitus Type II
• Hodgkin’s Disease
• Ischemic Heart Disease (including Coronary Artery Disease, stable and unstable angina, myocardial infarction, and sudden cardiac death)
• Multiple Myeloma
• Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
• Parkinson’s Disease
• Peripheral Neuropathy, Early-Onset
• Porphyria Cutanea Tarda
• Prostate Cancer
• Respiratory Cancers, including Lung Cancer
• Soft Tissue Sarcomas (other than osteosarcoma, chondrosarcoma, Kaposi’s sarcoma, and mesothelioma)

Importantly, these are the same presumptive conditions that apply to Vietnam veterans with “boots-on-the-ground.”

The death certificate DOES NOT need to list any of the above, however, if any of the above is listed, certainly expedites the process for approval.

Additionally, as the surviving widow, and even if your husband NEVER went to the VA or filed a claim with the VA, you should file for Dependency Indemnity Claim (DIC)

HOW TO APPLY

To apply for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC), file VA Form 21P-534EZ. Because prostate cancer is an Agent Orange presumptive condition for Vietnam veterans, you do not need to prove direct exposure, only that your spouse served in Vietnam. Submit the form with your spouse’s death certificate, your marriage certificate, and their military discharge papers.

Currently, DIC rate is tax free $1699.00 with medical. If qualified for DIC, you will be qualified for CHAMPVA, which acts as a secondary with Medicare. Simply put, CHAMPVA cover the majority of out of pocket Medicare does not cover.

VETTIP: When completing the form, in block 21 enter X  next to DEPENDENCY AND INDEMNITY COMPENSATION (D.I.C.) Whereas the DIC Benedit IS NOT income base, write on pages 13, 14, 15, 16, and 17 write in large letters  “ NA Appling for DIC benefits” across the pages.

The exception is you will need to complete page 14, block 7a, X in front of D.I.C. block.

Ensure to sign, block 12A page 17.

If you don’t have discharge paperwork or not sure of the ship the veteran was on, recommend you still file the form. The VA will notify you of the missing information via letter. After receiving the letter, respond “Under the VA Duty to Assist Law, request the VA gather the needed discharge paperwork and or other evidence detailed in the letter dated XXXXXXX as evidence for my claim.

You can apply online portal, or mailing the form to Department of Veterans Affairs, Pension Intake Center, PO Box 5365, Janesville, WI 53547-5365.

Summary of how a widow or widower :

Step 1 Fill out VA Form 21P-534EZ

Step 2 Attach marriage certificate, death certificate and DD214 or other discharge paperwork.

Step 3 Mail the form: Department of Veterans Affairs, Pension Intake Center, PO Box 5365, Janseville, WI 53547-5365.

FREE assistance, to include required forms, is available at the LZ Bronco Veteran and First Responder Resource Center, 1950 Bronco Highway, Burrillville RI. Telephone number (401) 677-9838 , email [email protected], Facebook LZ bronco.

More information on USS Iwo Jima:

The USS Iwo Jima (LPH-2) was the lead ship of her class and the first U.S. Navy amphibious assault ship designed from the keel up as a dedicated helicopter carrier. Commissioned in 1961, she pioneered the “vertical envelopment” doctrine for the Marine Corps and served until her decommissioning in 1993. Classified as a Landing Platform Helicopter (LPH), Iwo Jima lacked a well deck for landing craft. Her sole mission was to transport Marines and their equipment via a large complement of helicopters.

During the Vietnam War she played a major role in Vietnam, supporting Marine landings, delivering troops and equipment (such as at Chu Lai in 1965), and providing medical assistance.

Below is a ships list (as of July 15, 2026) the VA recognizes were exposed to Agent Orange in the waters of Vietnam:

SHIPS LIST

1. I.  Ships operating primarily or exclusively on Vietnam’s inland waterways

All vessels referred to in military records as part of the “Mobile Riverine Force”

All vessels with the designation AGP [Assault Group Patrol/Patrol Craft Tender]

All vessels with the designation LCM [Landing Craft, Mechanized]

All vessels with the designation LCU [Landing Craft, Utility]

All vessels with the designation LCVP [Landing Craft, Vehicle, Personnel]

All vessels with the designation LST [Landing Ship, Tank]

All vessels with the designation PBR [Patrol Boat, River]

All vessels with the designation PCF [Patrol Craft, Fast or Swift Boat]

All vessels with the designation STABS [Strike Assault Boats]

All vessels with the designation YFU [Harbor Utility Craft]

All U.S. Coast Guard Cutters with hull designation WPB [Patrol Boat], WHEC [High Endurance Cutter], WLB [Buoy Tender], and WAK [Cargo Vessel] during their Vietnam tours

All vessels of Inshore Fire Support [IFS] Division 93, including:

USS Carronade (IFS 1)

USS Clarion River (LSMR 409) [Landing Ship, Medium, Rocket]

USS Francis River (LSMR 525)

USS White River (LSMR 536)

All vessels with hull designation PG [Patrol Gunboat], including:

USS Asheville (PG-84)

USS Gallop (PG-85)

USS Antelope (PG-86)

USS Ready (PG-87)

USS Crockett (PG-88)

USS Marathon (PG-89)

USS Canon (PG-90)

USS Welch (PG-93)

USS Mark (AKL-12) [Light Cargo Ship]

USS Brule (AKL-28)

USS Cohoes (AN-78) [Net laying ship]

USS Patapsco (AOG-1) [Gasoline Tanker]

USS Elkhorn (AOG-7)

USS Genesee (AOG-8)

USS Kishwaukee (AOG-9)

USS Tombigbee (AOG-11)

USS Noxubee (AOG-56)

USS Montrose (APA-212) [Attack Transport]

USS Okanogan (APA-220)

USS Bexar (APA-237)

USS Benewah (APB-35) [Self-Propelled Barracks Ship]

USS Colleton (APB-36)

USS Mercer (APB-39)

USS Nueces (APB-40)

Barracks Barge (APL-26) [Sleeping Quarters]

Barracks Barge (APL-30)

USS Tutuila (ARG-4) [Repair Ship]

USS Satyr (ARL-23) [Repair Ship]

USS Sphinx (ARL-24)

USS Askari (ARL-30)

USS Indra (ARL-37)

USS Krishna (ARL-38)

USS Belle Grove (LSD-2) [Landing Ship Dock]

USS Comstock (LSD-19)

USS Tortuga (LSD-26)

Floating Base Platform (YRBM-16) [Repair, Berthing, and Messing Barge]

Floating Base Platform (YRBM-17)

Floating Base Platform (YRBM-18)

Floating Base Platform (YRBM-20)

Floating Base Platform (YRBM-21)

USN Harbor Tug 84 (YTB-84)

USN Harbor Tug 85 (YTB-85)

USN Winnemucca (YTB-785)

USS Kalispell (YTB-784)

1. Ships operating temporarily on Vietnam’s inland waterways

USS Card (ACV-11) [Escort Aircraft Carrier] mined, sunk, and salvaged in Saigon River Harbor during May 1964

USS Core (ACV-13) travelled on Saigon River to delivered aircraft to Saigon during June 1965

USS Bennington (CVS-20) [Anti-Submarine Aircraft Carrier] entered Qui Nhon Bay Harbor to pick up Bob Hope for onboard Christmas show on December 26, 1966

USS Surfbird (ADG-383) [Degaussing Ship] conducted anti-mine degaussing operation for ships on Qui Nhon Bay during November 1967 and August 1969 (see other category)

USS Wrangell (AE-12) [Auxiliary Explosive, Ammunition Ship] entered Mekong River Delta to supply ammunition for US Coast Guard vessel on November 21, 1968

USS Firedrake (AE-14) operated on Ganh Rai Bay during April 1966

USS Pictor (AF-54) [Auxiliary Stores Ship] entered Cua Viet River while delivering supplies to Dong Ha during September 1967 (see other category)

USS Vega (AF-59) conducted resupply operations on Mekong River Delta September 13, 1966 (see other category)

USS Mars (AFS-1) [Combat Stores Ship] operated on Mekong River July 8, 1966USS Niagara Falls (AFS-3) unloaded supplies on Saigon River and Cam Ranh Bay, April 22-25, 1968

USS Arikara (ATF-98) [Fleet Ocean Tug] assisted with salvage operations on Saigon River during August 1966 (see other category)

USS Estes (AGC-12) [Amphibious Force Flagship] entered Qui Nhon Bay during June 1965 and anchored in Mekong River during January 1967 (see other category)

USS Tanner (AGS-15) [Mapping Survey Ship] conducted surveys of Mekong River Delta and other coastal areas and rivers from October 1966 through 1968

USS Maury (AGS-16) conducted surveys of Mekong River Delta and other coastal areas and rivers from November 1965 through 1969

USS Sheldrake (AGS-19) conducted sounding surveys of Vietnam coastal and inland waterways October 1967 through March 1968

USS Serrano (AGS-24) conducted mapping surveys of Mekong River Delta and other coastal and river areas from 1966 through 1969

USS Towhee (AGS-28) conducted sounding surveys of Vietnam coastal and inland waterways October 1967 through March 1968

USS Rehoboth (AGS-50) conducted hydrographic survey of Mekong River Delta area during December 1965

USS Merrick (AKA-97) [Attack Cargo Ship] participated in Operation Jackstay amphibious landings while on Saigon River during March 1966 (see other category)

USS Seminole (AKA/LKA-104) [Attack/Amphibious Cargo Ship] docked in Saigon during July 1962; operated on Saigon River channel on March 4, 1967; and entered Cua Viet River on May 26, 1967 (see other category)

USS Union (AKA/LKA-106) anchored in Hue River while conducting operations during April 1965 (see other category)

USS St. Louis (AKA/LKA-116) operated on Ganh Rai Bay during March 9, 1971 (see other category)

USS Pollux (AKS-4) [General Stores Ship] delivered supplies while in Ganh Rai Bay on April 4. 1966, June 14, August 16, and October 31, 1967, and January 5, March 14, April 5, May 29, June 18, August 5, and October 10, 1968

USS Guadalupe (AO-32) [Oiler] operated on Ganh Rai Bay during April 1966

USS Kennebec (AO-36) provided fuel to vessels while in Ganh Rai Bay during August 1969

USS Ponchatoula (AO-148) operated on Mekong River Delta during July 1971(see other category)

USS George Clymer (APA-27) [Amphibious Attack Transport] navigated Saigon River to Saigon Port during January 1963 (see other category)

USS Calvert (APA-32) entered Qui Nhon Bay during October 1965 (see other category)

USS Cavalier (APA-37) entered Qui Nhon Bay on February 2, 1968 (see other category)

USS Magoffin (APA-199) entered Qui Nhon Bay to offload troops during October 23-24, 1965 (see other category)

USS Talladega (APA-208) operated on Saigon River during October 1967

USS Navarro (APA-215) transported Thai “Queen’s Cobras” troops from Thailand to Saigon via Saigon River during September 1967 (see other category)

USS Okanogan (APA-220) navigated Saigon River to Saigon for delivery of Thai troops during August 1968 (see other category)

USS Pickaway (APA-222) operated on Rung Sat Special Zone from March 31 to April 5, 1966 (see other category)

USS Paul Revere (APA-248) assisted with salvage of the USS Card (ACV-11) in Saigon Harbor on Saigon River during May 1964 and transported Korean troops through Qui Nhon Bay during October-November 1965 (see other category)

USS Weiss (APD/LPR-135) [High Speed Transport/Small Amphibious Transport] conducted operations in the Saigon River from March 1 to 18, 1963, and later conducted inland waterway troop-landing operations with Marine and SEAL units at various locations in the Mekong River Delta, Rung Sat Special Zone, and Saigon River and routinely surveyed river mouths and canal entrances for amphibious landings from November 1965 through February 1969

USS Markab (AR-23) [Repair Ship] conducted repair operations on Ganh Rai Bay during November 1967

USS Current (ARS-22) [Salvage Ship] conducted salvage operations on Saigon River during July 1964 and April 1967 and Qui Nhon Bay during May 1967 and August 1971

USS Grasp (ARS-24) conducted salvaging operations on Song Cua Dia River and other inland waters from February through April 1969

USS Safeguard (ARS-25) operated on Ganh Rai Bay and Mekong River Delta during December 8, 1965 (see other category)

USS Bolster (ARS-38) crew operated on land to extract USS Clark County (LST-601) from beach after grounding at Duc Pho from November 18 to December 1, 1967

USS Reclaimer (ARS-42) operated in Saigon Harbor to salvage USS Card (ACV-11) from sinking in Saigon River during May 1964 and in Rung Sat Special Zone of Mekong River Delta salvaging ships during early 1966

USS Chanticleer (ASR-7) [Submarine Rescue/Salvage Ship] traveled up the Saigon River and docked at Saigon during February 1963

USS Tillamook (ATA-192) [Auxiliary Ocean Tug] operated on Qui Nhon Bay during April 1965 and on Long Tau branch of Saigon River during January 1966

USS Mahopac (ATA-196) moored in Saigon during October 6-9, 1965, and operated on Mekong River from October 30-November 3, 1966

USS Mataco (ATF-86) [Fleet Ocean Tug] provided tow on Saigon River and delivered vessels to inland river base at Nha Be during June-August 1968 (see other category)

USS Tawasa (ATF-92) moored in Saigon from June 30 – July 4, 1964

USS Moctobi (ATF-105) provided tow on Saigon River with deliveries to inland river base at Nha Be during September-October 1967

USS Quapaw (ATF-110) provided tow on Saigon River with deliveries to inland river base at Nha Be during June 1966

USS Tawakoni (ATF-114) operated in Saigon Harbor to salvage USS Card (ACV-11) from sinking in Saigon River during May 1964

USS Currituck (AV-7) [Sea Plane Tender] travelled up Saigon River to Saigon during early 1964 and operated in Mekong River Delta during June 1965 (see other category)

USS Newport News (CA-148) [Heavy Cruiser] operated on Song Huong Estuary during February 1968 and on Mekong River Delta in vicinity of Vinh Binh Province during December 1968

USS Canberra (CAG-2) [Guided Missile Cruiser] operated on Saigon River from March 31 through April 1, 1966, on Mekong Delta Ham Luong River during January 15, 1967, and on Cua Viet River ( Song Thach Han) during December 10, 1968 (see other category)

USS Oklahoma City (CLG-5) [Light Guided Missile Cruiser] docked in Saigon during 21-24 July 1964 and operated in the mouth of the Thach Han River during July 20-21, 1966 (see other category)

USS Providence (CLG-6) operated on Saigon River 3 days during January 1964, on Song Huong (Perfume River) during February 15, 1968, and on Cua Viet River during August 1972

USS Radford (DD-446) [Destroyer] operated on Ganh Rai Bay and Saigon River during December 1967

USS Nicholas (DD-449) [Destroyer] operated on Ganh Rai Bay during April 1965, Mekong River Delta during January 1967, and Ganh Rai Bay and Mekong River Delta during August 1968

USS O’Bannon (DD-450) operated on Saigon River during May 22-24, 1966

USS Taylor (DD-468) operated on Ganh Rai Bay during August 1967 and November-December 1968

USS Conway (DD-507) operated on Saigon River during early August 1966

USS Cony (DD-508) operated on Ganh Rai Bay during November 6-7, 1967

USS Walker (DD-517) operated on inland waterway near Chu Lai during April 1966, on Mekong River during May 1967, and Saigon River during December 1968

USS Mullany (DD-528) entered Qui Nhon Bay during June 1965

USS Prichett (DD-561) operated on Mekong River Delta in September 1966 and operated on Mekong River Delta and Saigon River during August 1969

 

USS Stoddard (DD-566) operated on Saigon River during September 1965

 USS Sproston (DD-577) operated on Mekong River Delta and Ganh Rai Bay during January 1966

USS Ingersoll (DD-652) operated on Saigon River October 24-25, 1965

USS Black (DD-666) operated on Saigon River during February 1965, Qui Nhon Bay during June 1965, and Saigon River during July 1966

USS Hopewell (DD-681) operated on Mekong River Delta during June 15-16, 1966

USS Picking (DD-685) operated on Saigon River during November 16, 1965

USS Uhlmann (DD-687) entered Qui Nhon Bay during June 1965

USS Ault (DD-698) operated on Mekong River Delta and Soirap River during May 26, 1967

USS Ingraham (DD-694) operated 10 miles up Saigon River on November 12, 1965

USS Charles S. Sperry (DD-697) operated on Saigon River during December 1965 (see other category)

USS Hugh Purvis (DD-709) operated on Qui Nhon Bay during January 1969

USS Wiltsie (DD-716) operated on Saigon River during July 1966 (see other category)

USS Hamner (DD-718) operated on Song Lon Tao and Long Song Tao Rivers, August 15-September 1, 1966; and on Song Gga in Rung Sat Special Zone November 14-15, 1967 (see other category)

USS Epperson (DD-719) operated on Qui Nhon Bay during November 1965 (see other category)

USS Walke (DD-723) operated on Mekong River Delta during September 2, 1969

USS De Haven (DD-727) operated on Saigon River during early March 1967

USS Mansfield (DD-728) entered mouth of Mekong River on November 29, 1965, and operated on Saigon River August 8-19, 1966 and December 21-24, 1969

USS Lyman K. Swenson (DD-729) traveled up Saigon River for a four-day visit to Saigon during May 1964

USS Collett (DD-730)   provided naval gunfire support while in the Mekong River on August 19, 1965

USS Frank Knox (DD-742) operated on Long Tau River during June 16-17, 1969

USS Southerland (DD-743) operated on Song Nga and Saigon River during July 1966

USS Taussig (DD-746) operated on Soirap River in Mekong River Delta during June 15-26, 1966

USS Samuel N. Moore (DD-747) operated on Saigon River, Rung Sat Special Zone, and Mekong River Delta during November 1965 and September-December 1968

USS John A. Bole (DD-755) operated on Saigon River during July 4-6, 1966

USS Lofberg (DD-759) operated on Song Nha Be River during February 18-21 and April 14-15, 1969 and on Song Cua Dai River during April 10-12, 1969

USS Strong (DD-758) operated in Mekong River Delta and Rung Sat Special Zone during April 1968

USS John W. Thomason (DD-760) operated on Mekong River Delta for Operation Deck House III during August 1966 and on Nga Be River during 1969

USS Buck (DD-761) operated on Mekong River Delta and Saigon River during October 1966

USS Lloyd Thomas (DD-764) operated on Ganh Rai Bay and Saigon River area during December 28, 1970

USS Lowry (DD-770) operated on Mekong River Delta during October 1968 (see other category)

USS De Haven (DD-727) operated on Mekong River September 1, 1963

USS Douglas H. Fox (DD-779) operated on Ganh Rai Bay and Rung Sat Special Zone during March 16-20, 1969

USS Rowan (DD-782) operated on Song Tra Khuc River and Qui Nhon Bay from April through July 1965, December 1967, and June 1969

USS Gurke (DD-783) operated on Ganh Rai Bay, Saigon River, and Mekong River during October 1966 and May 1969

USS McKean (DD-784) operated on Mekong and Saigon River Deltas during

March 14-15, 1967

USS Henderson (DD-785) operated on Saigon River during December 17, 1965

USS Richard B. Anderson (DD-786) operated on Mekong River Delta during May-June, 1966 (see other category)

USS James E. Kyes (DD-787) provided naval gunfire support on Song Ca River during October 1967 and Ganh Rai Bay during June 1969

USS Shelton (DD-790) operated on Saigon River during January 16, 1966

USS Preston (DD-795) operated on Mekong River Delta, Ganh Rai Bay, and Saigon River during September 28 – 29 and December 27 – 29, 1965, on Mekong River Delta June 3, 1967, and Ganh Rai Bay on November 24, 1968

USS Chevalier (DD-805) operated on Saigon River during June 15-21, 1966, and Mekong River Delta during January 25, 1968

USS Higbee (DD-806) provided naval gunfire support from Ganh Rai Bay and Mekong River Delta during January-February and April 1966; March 1969; and September 1970 (see other category)

USS Benner (DD-807) operated on Ganh Rai Bay and Rung Sat Special Zone during June 26-July 1, 1968

USS Dennis J Buckley (DD-808) operated on Mekong River Delta, Saigon River, and Ganh Rai Bay during July 1965 and from December 19, 1966 to January 16, 1967; and on Mekong River Delta during June 1971 (see other category)

USS New (DD-818) operated on Song Bu Lu River during October 1967

USS Holder (DD-819) operated on Vung Ganh Rai and Saigon River during August 5, 1966

USS Samuel B. Roberts (DD-823) operated on Mekong River Delta and Saigon River during December 1965

USS Basilone (DD-824) operated on Saigon River, May 24-25, 1966

USS Agerholm (DD-826) operated on Song Nga River and Ganh Rai Bay during March-April 1969

USS Myles C. Fox (DD-829) entered Qui Nhon Bay during February 1967

USS Everett F. Larson (DD-830) operated on Mekong River during December 1967

USS Hanson (DD-832) operated on Saigon River during July 2-3, 1965 and September 13, 1966 (see other category)

USS Herbert J Thomas (DD-833) operated in Mekong River Delta during December 1966 and on Saigon River during April 28, 1968

USS George K. Mackenzie (DD-836) operated on Ganh Rai Bay during February 1969

USS Glennon (DD-840) provided gunfire support on Cua Viet River during June 7, 1972

USS Noa (DD-841) operated on Qui Nhon Bay during April 1969

USS Fiske (DD-842) operated on Mekong River, June 16-21, 1966

USS Warrington (DD-843) operated on Mekong River Delta and Rung Sat Special Zone during March 1967

USS Ozbourn (DD-846) conducted fire support missions on Saigon River October-November 1965 and August-October 1966

USS Robert L. Wilson (DD-847) entered Song Da Rang River (near Tuy Hoi) and Rung Sat Special Zone area during February-March 1969

USS Richard E. Kraus (DD-849) operated on inland river north of Da Nang during June 2-5, 1966, protecting Marines holding a bridge

USS Rupertus (DD-851) operated on Saigon River during April 1966 and May 1969

USS Leonard F. Mason (DD-852) operated on Ganh Rai Bay and channels during August 1969

USS Fred T. Berry (DD-858) operated in Mekong River Delta area on March 15, 1966

USS Norris (DD-859) conducted operations on inland Song Nga River during November-December 1966

USS McCaffery (DD-860) provided naval gunfire support while in Mekong River during April 8-9, 1967

USS Vogelgesang (DD-862 ) provided gunfire support while in Thu Bong River during October 18-29, 1966 (see other category)

USS Harold J. Ellison (DD-864) operated on Saigon River between late 1965 and mid 1966

USS Brownson (DD-868) operated on Song Nha Be River and Mekong River Delta during February 1967

USS Fechteler (DD-870) operated in Mekong River Delta on September 27, 1965 and Qui Nhon Bay November 25-26, 1968 (see other category)

USS Damato (DD-871) operated on Saigon River during December 12-13, 1967

USS Forrest Royal (DD-872) operated on Saigon River during June 1967

USS Duncan (DD-874) operated on Long Tau River and Rung Sat Special Zone during January 1969 and Qui Nhon Bay during March 1969 (see other category)

USS Henry W. Tucker (DD-875) operated on Qui Nhon Bay during 1965 and August 1968 and Mekong River Delta during March 1966 and May1969 (see other categories)

USS Perkins (DD-877) operated on Ganh Rai Bay during October 1967 and on Saigon River during June 1969

USS Vesole (DD-878) operated on Saigon River during December 1965-February 1966

USS Leary (DD-879) operated on the Mekong River Delta on October 9, 1967

USS Dyess (DD-880) operated on Saigon River and Rung Sat Special Zone from June 19–July 1, 1966

USS Newman K. Perry (DD-883) operated on Mekong River Delta and Saigon River November 23-28, 1966

USS Floyd B. Parks (DD-884) operated on Saigon River and Ganh Rai Bay during February and March 1968

USS John R. Craig (DD-885) operated on inland waterway during July 1965 (see other category)

USS Orleck (DD-886) operated on Mekong River Delta during July 1969

USS Brinkley Bass (DD-887) conducted fire support mission on Saigon River during November 11-17, 1968, and in Rung Sat Special Zone during February 9-11, 1970 (see other category)

USS Barry (DD-933) operated on Saigon River during December 1965

USS Du Pont (DD-941) operated on Mekong River Delta during October 1968

USS Mullinnix (DD-944) operated on Vung Ganh Rai and Saigon River during August 5-6, 1966

USS Morton (DD-948) operated on Vung Ganh Rai and Saigon River during April 1966 and February 1969 (see other category)

USS Richard S Edwards (DD-950) operated on Mekong River Delta in Province of Kien Hoa during February 28 and March 1, 1969 (see other category)

USS Turner Joy (DD-951) entered Cua Viet River channel on December 24, 1969

USS Henry B. Wilson (DDG-7) [Guided Missile Destroyer] operated on Mekong River Delta during May 1968 (see other category)

USS Lynde McCormick (DDG-8) operated on Cua Ham Loung River and Mekong River Delta during April 1966 and Mekong River Delta during March 1969

USS Towers (DDG-9) operated on Saigon River and Rung Sat Special Zone during July 1966

USS Robison (DDG-12) provided naval gunfire support for Operation Jackstay in Rung Sat Special Zone and Saigon River during April 1966

USS Joseph Strauss (DDG-16) operated on Mekong River Delta March 4, 1966 and Ganh Rai Bay during November 7 and December 7, 1968

USS Goldsborough (DDG-20) operated on Cua Dai River December 13, 1968 (see other category)

USS Benjamin Stoddert (DDG-22) operated on the Song Lang Nuog River December 24, 1965 and the Cua Viet River April 25, 1972 (see other category)

USS Waddell (DDG-24) operated on Saigon River during March 1966 and Cua Viet River during March 1967

USS Duncan (DDR-874) [Radar Picket Destroyer] operated on Saigon River during September and October 1965

USS Falgout (DER-324) [Radar Pickett Ship] operated on Mekong River during June 1965 and entered Qui Nhon Bay as part of operation with PCFs interdicting junk traffic during May 1966

USS Lowe (DE-325) anchored in Saigon Harbor during April 1966

USS Walton (DE-361) travelled up Saigon River and docked in Saigon Harbor during March 1962

USS Alvin C. Cockrell (DE-366) anchored in Saigon Harbor for four days during May 1962

USS McMorris (DE-1036) entered Qui Nhon Bay during July 1965

USS Davidson (DE-1045) operated on Vung Ganh Rai and Rung Sat Special Zone of Mekong River Delta from September 16 to October 5, 1967 (see other category)

USS Finch (DER-328) [Destroyer Escort Radar] entered Qui Nhon Bay on January 20, 1966 and December 1967 (when crewmembers painted a Vietnamese orphanage)

USS Kretchmer (DER-329) entered Qui Nhon Bay during September and November 1965, June and August 1966, and April 1967

USS Vance (DER-387) entered Qui Nhon Bay on January 20, 1966

USS Mahan (DLG-11) [Guided Missile Frigate] visited Saigon via Saigon River October 24-28, 1962

USS Vancouver (LPD-2) [Amphibious Transport Dock] entered Qui Nhon Bay during September 11-12, 1971 (see other category)

USS Iwo Jima (LPH-2) [Landing Platform, Helicopter] entered Qui Nhon Bay in July 1965 (see other category)

USS Princeton (LPH-5) operated on Ganh Rai Bay during April 1966 (see other category)

USS Valley Forge (LPH-8) entered mouth of Hue River during December 1965 (see other category)

USS Carter Hall (LSD-3) [Landing Ship Dock] delivered supplies up Saigon River to Nha Be during March-May 1967 and June 1968 (see other category)

USS Gunston Hall (LSD-5) operated on Saigon River during April 1965 and March 1968 (see other category)

USS Oak Hill (LSD-7) conducted salvage operations for damaged swift boat on Ganh Hao River during July 1967 (see other category)

USS Cabildo (LSD-16) delivered equipment to Nha Be via the Long Tau River during June 1968

USS Catamount (LSD-17) travelled up Saigon River to Saigon during November 1962 and operated on Nha Be and Long Tau Rivers during April 1969 (see other category)

USS Colonial (LSD-18) travelled up Saigon River to Nha Be during April 1966 and June and September 1969 (see other category)

USS Fort Marion (LSD-22) navigated Saigon River to dock in Saigon during February 1966 (see other category)

USS Whetstone (LSD-27) anchored as long term “boat haven” for repairs of smaller vessels on Qui Nhon Bay during June-July 1965 (see other category)

USS Thomaston (LSD-28) conducted dredge lift on Saigon River during November 1964

USS Point Defiance (LSD-31) entered Qui Nhon Bay to deliver troops during July 1965; operated on Saigon River during March 1967; and conducted several operations on Saigon River to Saigon Port during October and November 1968 (see other category)

USS Alamo (LSD-33) landed Marines while at Qui Nhon Bay during July 1965 and at Rung Sat Special Zone during March-April 1966 (see other category)

USS Anchorage (LSD-36) transported troops and supplies into Qui Nhon Bay during June 1970 and January 1972 (see other category)

USS Catskill (MCS/MSC-1) [Minesweeper-Coastal] entered Saigon River on March 18, 1970

USS Woodpecker (MSC-209) entered Qui Nhon Bay during May 1965

USS Gannet (MSC-290) operated on rivers of Mekong Delta at Vinh Long and Binh Thuy during May 1967

USS Whippoorwill (MSC-207) [Minesweeper-Ocean] entered Qui Nhon Bay repeatedly during July-August 1968 (see other category)

USS Conflict (MSO-426) [Minesweeper-Ocean] operated on Saigon River April 1, 1966 and Song Huong River (Perfume River) May 14, 1966 (see other category)

USS Enhance (MSO-437) entered Qui Nhon Bay repeatedly during October through November 1968 and January through February 1969

USS Esteem (MSO-438) crewmembers painted a Vietnamese orphanage while docked at Qui Nhon Bay during December 1967 and again during March 1969

USS Fortify (MSO-446) travelled up the Saigon River to Saigon September 19-22, 1964

USS Illusive (MSO-448) conducted training with Vietnamese Navy on Saigon River from January through March 1962

USS Inflict (MSO-456) travelled up the Saigon River to Saigon September 19-22, 1964

USS Loyalty (MSO-457) travelled up the Saigon River to Saigon September 19-22, 1964 (see other category)

USS Conquest (MSO-488) operated on Saigon River during 1962 and entered Qui Nhon Bay on January 29 and February 7-9, 1969

USS Pledge (MSO-492) entered Qui Nhon Bay on May 8, 15, and 21, 1971 (see other category)

USS W. A. Mann (T-AP-112) [Military Transport] entered Qui Nhon Bay August 23, 1965

USS Breckinridge (T-AP-176) entered Qui Nhon Bay September 16-17, 1965

USS Geiger (T-AP-197) entered Qui Nhon Bay November 23-26, 1965

USNS General Hugh J. Gaffey (T-AP-121) entered Qui Nhon Bay November 6-8, 1966

USS Eaton (DD-510) entered the mouth of the Saigon River in the Mekong River Delta on August 23, 1967

USS William C. Lawe (DD-763) – Operated on the mouth of the Cua Viet River on December 20, 1972

USS Sample (DE-1048) – Travelled on Cua Viet River on April 27, 1972

USS Corry (DD-817) – provided Naval gunfire support on the Mekong River on October 27, 1968 (see other category)

USS Harwood (DD-861) – conducted Naval gunfire missions in the Mekong River Delta from July 19-22, 1968

USS Samuel Gompers (AD-37) [Destroyer Tender] multiple dockings to piers at Da Nang during April 1972

USS Graffias (AF-29) [Auxiliary Stores Ship] docked to pier at Da Nang for resupply on February 20 and November 25, 1967, and conducted other in-port docking replenishments at An Thoi and Vung Tau during 1967

USS Pictor (AF-54) docked to pier at Da Nang during 1969 (see other category)

USS Aludra (AF-55), conducted in-port docking replenishments at Cam Ranh Bay, Vung Tau, An Thoi, and Da Nang during March-April 1969

USS Regulus (AF-57) conducted numerous in-port docking replenishments at Cam Ranh Bay, Vung Tau, An Thoi, and Da Nang during March-November 1966, May-July 1967, February-December 1968, October-December 1969, June-September 1970, and April-July 1971

USS Procyon (AF-61) docked and conducted in-port replenishments at Da Nang during June 1965, November 1965, January 1966, December 1966, August 1967, and April 1970; and at Cam Ranh Bay during January 1966 and May 1970

USS Castor (AKS-1) [General Stores Ship] docked to pier at Da Nang on October 7, 1966

USS Caliente (AO-53) [Fleet Oiler] docked for in-port replenishment at An Thoi and Vung Tau during June 1970

USS Manatee (AO-58) docked for in-port replenishment at An Thoi and Vung Tau during November 1968

USS Passumpsic (A0-107) docked in-port at An Thoi on June 28, 1971

USS Grapple (ARS-7) [Salvage Ship] conducted numerous repair and salvaging operations while moored to beach or piers at Da Nang, Chu Lai, Cam Ranh Bay, and Tan My during January 1967; November 1970 through April 1971; and August 1972 through January 1973

USS Deliver (ARS-23) docked in Cam Ranh Bay to pick up DeLong floating pier July 26-28, 1973

USS Safeguard (ARS-25) docked at Pier-2 in Cam Ranh Bay on August 14, 1971 (see other category)

USS Mataco (ATF-86) [Fleet Ocean Tug] docked to piers at Da Nang during May and August 1968 (see other category)

USS Arikara (ATF-98) docked to piers at Da Nang from September to December 1969 (see other category)

USS Kula Gulf (CVE-108) [Small Aircraft Carrier: used as helicopter and troop transport] docked at Cam Ranh Bay November 13-16, 1965

USS Braine (DD-630) docked to pier at Da Nang on November 27, 1966

USS Charles S. Sperry (DD-697) docked at Da Nang during January 1966 (see other category)

USS Wiltsie (DD-716) docked in Da Nang during January 1973, with evidence of crew members going ashore (see other category)

USS Hamner (DD-718) docked to pier with destroyer tender at Da Nang during April 11-12, 1972

USS Epperson (DD-719) docked to Da Nang Pier on October 4, 1970 (see other category)

USS James C. Owens (DD-776) docked at Cam Ranh Bay on April 30, 1968

USS Richard B Anderson (DD-786) docked to pier at Da Nang on August 29, 1972 (see other category)

USS Dennis J Buckley (DD-808) docked to pier in Da Nang Harbor to deliver drone on December 15, 1969 (see other category)

USS Rich (DD-820) docked to pier at Da Nang on December 13, 1972

USS Ozbourn (DD-846) docked briefly to piers in Da Nang Harbor on February 21, April 1, and April 11, 1971

USS Leonard F. Mason (DD-852) docked to pier at Da Nang on February 12, 1973

USS Cone (DD-866) docked to pier in Da Nang Harbor on December 11, 1972

USS Henry W. Tucker (DD-875) docked to pier in Da Nang Harbor on September 12, 1971 (see other categories)

USS Brinkley Bass (DD-887) sent crew ashore for work details and liberty leave while anchored at Da Nang, Cam Ranh Bay, and Vung Tau during April-May, 1970 (see other category)

USS Manley (DD-940) docked periodically at Da Nang and sent crew members ashore for liberty leave and work details between November 1966 and March 1967

USS Bigelow (DD-942) docked to pier at Da Nang on April 19, 1967

USS Edson (DD-946) docked to Da Nang pier and sent small boats ashore while anchored in Da Nang Harbor and off Point Allison during July 1971

USS Morton (DD-948) docked to pier at Da Nang on February 7-10, 1973 (see other category)

USS Henry B. Wilson (DDG-7) [Guided Missile Destroyer] docked at Da Nang pier on April 2, 1967 and September 29, 1971 (see other category)

USS Buchanan (DDG-14) docked to pier with destroyer tender at Da Nang during April 11-12, 1972

USS Bronstein (DE-1037) [Destroyer Escort] docked to pier at Da Nang on December 11, 1972

USS Lang (DE-1060) docked to pier #4 in Da Nang Harbor for 38 minutes on January 5, 1973, and sent whaleboat to and from shore with “briefing personnel” on January 8, 1973

USS Ramsey (DEG-2) [Destroyer Escort] docked to pier in Da Nang Harbor on November 24^th and 30th, 1969, and January 6, 1973

USS Newell (DER-322) [Destroyer Escort Radar] docked at port of Nha Trang during December 22-24, 1965

USS Gridley (DLG-21) [Guided Missile Frigate] Docked to Pier #2 in Da Nang Harbor to unload a damaged helicopter on January 12, 1967

USS Durham (LKA-114) [Amphibious Cargo Ship] docked to piers at Da Nang during March 20-21, July 20-21, August 18-19, and September 7, 1970

USS Mobile (LKA-115) docked to pier at Da Nang on September 20, 1970 and April 16, 1971 (see other category)

USS Ogden (LPD-5) [Amphibious Transport Dock] made numerous dockings at Da Nang to transport troops and supplies, with crew members going ashore, from February 1966 to March 1973

USS Duluth (LPD-6) made numerous dockings at Da Nang, as well as transporting troops and supplies to Chu Lai, Vung Tau, and Quang Tri, from May 1967 to August 1972; also participated in evacuation of Saigon during April 1975 by sending rescue boats ashore at Vung Tau

USS Dubuque (LPD-8) docked at Da Nang on March 15, 1970

USS Vancouver (LPD-9) docked to pier at Da Nang on June 19, 1971 (see other category)

USS Iwo Jima (LPH-2) [Landing Platform, Helicopter] docked to pier at Da Nang on October 6, 1969 and May 19-20, 1971 (see other category)

USS Okinawa (LPH-3) docked to pier at Cam Ranh Bay to offload aircraft during May 1971

USS Boxer (LPH-4) docked to pier at Cam Ranh Bay on September 9, 1965

USS New Orleans (LPH-11) docked to pier at Da Nang on March 12, 1970

USS Hermitage (LSD-34) [Landing Ship Dock] docked to Da Nang pier June 2-3, 1967 (see other category)

USS Warbler (MSC-206) [Minesweeper-Coastal] docked to pier at Cam Ranh Bay July 22-25, 1964 and June 18 and July 6, 1970

USS Widgeon (MSC-208) docked repeatedly to piers at Cam Ranh Bay during July 1964 and June-July 1969

USS Whippoorwill (MSC-207) docked to pier at Cam Ranh Bay during July 22-25, 1964; March 10, 1969; July 21 and 29, August 13, and September 1, 1970 (see other category)

USS Conflict (MSO-426) [Minesweeper-Ocean] docked to piers at Cam Ranh Bay on September 30, October 7, 27, 28, and 31, 1971 (see other category)

USS Endurance (MSO-435) docked to piers at Da Nang at various times during March-June, 1969

USS Excel (MSO-439) docked to pier at Cam Ranh Bay July 31, 1967

USS Firm (MSO-444) docked to pier at Da Nang November 26-30, 1969 and docked to piers at Cam Ranh Bay February-April, 1971

USS Force (MSO-445)  while moored with other ships in Vung Tau Harbor, sent crew ashore for liberty leave March 3-7, 1967; and docked to pier at Cam Ranh Bay March 13-15, 1972 and Vung Tau April 25-May 3, 1972

USS Fortify (MSO-446) docked to pier at Cam Ranh Bay on September 30 and November 29, 1971

USS Guide (MSO-447) docked to pier at Cam Ranh Bay on September 30, 1971 (see other category)

USS Loyalty (MSO-457) docked to pier at Cam Ranh Bay on April 9 and 25, 1971 (see other category)

USS Lucid (MSO-458) docked to pier at Da Nang for off-loading and on-loading equipment during May 1967

USS Prime (MSO-466) docked to pier at Da Nang on February 16, 1967

USS Gallant (MSO-489) docked to pier at Da Nang during November 5-6, 1969

USS Leader (MSO-490) docked to pier at Cam Ranh Bay on November 30, 1968

USS Persistent (MSO-491) docked to piers at Da Nang and Cam Ranh Bay during October-December 1970

USS Pledge (MSO-492) docked to pier at Cam Ranh Bay intermittently during July 1967 and May-June 1971 (see other category)

USS Boston (CAG-1) – docked in-port at Da Nang Harbor on April 30^th and May 17^th, 1967

USS Grasp (ARS-24) – moored to the shore at Wunder Beach and Chu Lai on multiple occasions to repair seaload fuel lines in July and August 1968

USS Albatross (MSC-289) – docked to Junk Training Command Pier, Cam Ranh Bay, on July 22-25, 1964

USS Abnaki (ATF-96) – docked to pier in Da Nang on September 16, 1967

USS Advance (MSO-51B) – docked to pier in Da Nang Harbor and sent personnel ashore on October 7, 1966

USS Isle Royale (AD-29) [Destroyer Tender-Repair Ship] salvaged the beached USS Mahnomen County (LST-912) at Chu Lai during January 1967 with crewmembers going ashore for stripping operations

USS Surfbird (ADG-383) [Degaussing Ship] sent crew members ashore during anti-mine degaussing operations at Cam Ranh Bay, Vung Tau, Da Nang, and Con Son Island during September-November 1967; March-July and December 1968; March and December 1969; and January-February 1970 (see other category)

USS Pyro (AE-24) [Auxiliary Explosive, Ammunition Ship] sent small boat ashore from Da Nang Harbor with injured crew member for medical treatment on September 29, 1972

USS Mount McKinley (AGC-7) [Amphibious Force Flagship] Command ship for 7^th Fleet Amphibious Force operated out of Da Nang during 1969 with evidence that crew members went ashore (see other category)

USS Eldorado (AGC-11) sent crewmembers ashore for liberty leave at Cam Ranh Bay during June 1967 and July 1970

USS Estes (AGC-12) sent crewmembers ashore for beach picnic at Vung Tau during April 1968 (see other category)

USS Oxford (AGTR-1) [Technical Research Ship] conducted numerous month-long deployments along the Vietnam coast collecting data, with evidence that crewmembers went ashore, between 1965 and 1969

USS Jamestown (AGTR-3) conducted numerous month-long deployments along the Vietnam coast collecting data, with photographic evidence that crewmembers went ashore, between January 1966 and September 1969

USS Repose (AH-16) [Hospital Ship] operated continuously on close coastal waters from 1966-1970, with evidence that crewmembers went ashore on liberty leave

USS Sanctuary (AH-17) operated continuously on close coastal waters from 1967-1971, with evidence that crewmembers went ashore on liberty leave

USS Ponchatoula (AO-148) [Fleet Oiler] sent crew members ashore to visit the An Thoi Naval Base on April 27, 1969

USS Tolovana (AO-64) sent crew ashore for beach party at Phu Quoc during May 1971

USS Sacramento (AOE-1) [Fast Combat Support Ship] regularly sent helicopters ashore to Da Nang for mail pick-up during March-August 1970

USS Calvert (APA-32) [Amphibious Attack Transport] served as Da Nang Harbor station ship, with crewmembers going ashore, from November 1965 through January 1966 (see other category)

USS Cavalier (APA-37) served as Da Nang Harbor station ship, with crewmembers going ashore, from June-July 1966 (see other category)

USS Cook (APD-130) [High Speed Transport] conducted tactical beach surveys with crew members ashore along Vietnam coast during June and July 1966

USS Ajax (AR-6) [Repair Ship] anchored in Vung Tau area for repair duties with evidence of shore-based repairs during June 1968, September to October 1969, April to May 1970, and August to November 1971

USS Hector (AR-7) anchored in Vung Tau Harbor repairing other vessels from July 20 to August 16, 1970, with deck logs stating that crewmembers went ashore on liberty leave

USS Jason (AR-8) anchored in Vung Tau Harbor repairing other vessels with deck logs showing evidence of crewmembers going ashore June through August 1968, December 1969 through January 1970, and March through April 1971

USS Safeguard (ARS-25) [Salvage Ship] anchored in Da Nang Harbor repairing other vessels with evidence that workboats went ashore during July 1971 (see other category)

USS Delta (AR-9) anchored in Vung Tau Harbor repairing other vessels during July 1969 with deck logs showing that crewmembers went ashore on liberty leave

USS Klondike (AR-22) anchored in Vung Tau Harbor repairing other vessels during April 1969 with deck logs showing that crewmembers went ashore

USNS Corpus Christi Bay (T-ARVH-1) [Helicopter Repair Ship] anchored in Cam Ranh Bay from 1966 to 1969 with US Army crew of helicopter repair technicians who went ashore regularly and assisted a Vietnamese orphanage

USS Ute (ATF-76) [Fleet Ocean Tug] conducted numerous salvaging operations on beached vessels from April 1966 through April 1971 with crewmembers going ashore and all attended beach party at Cam Ranh Bay on April 12, 1969

USS Currituck (AV-7) [Sea Plane Tender] anchored at Cam Ranh Bay for month long periods during 1966 and 1967 to repair and tend to Navy sea planes, with evidence that crewmembers went ashore on liberty leave (see other category)

USS Pine Island (AV-12) anchored at Da Nang during August 1964, and Cam Ranh Bay for month long periods during 1965 and 1966, to repair and tend to Navy sea planes, with evidence that crewmembers went ashore on liberty leave

USS Salisbury Sound (AV-13) anchored at Da Nang during February 1965, Con Son Island during May 1965, and Cam Ranh Bay for month long periods during 1966, to repair and tend to Navy sea planes, with evidence that crewmembers went ashore

USS New Jersey (BB-62) sent 30 crew members ashore for Thanksgiving dinner while offshore near Hue on November 28, 1968

USS Saint Paul (CA-73) [Cruiser] while anchored in Da Nang Harbor, small boats sent ashore on May 9, 1969, and May 25, July 17, and September 17, 1970

USS Canberra (CAG-2) [Guided Missile Cruiser] sent small boats and helicopters ashore while anchored in Da Nang Harbor during April 1965 (see other category)

USS Chicago (CG-11) [Guided Missile Cruiser] while anchored in Da Nang Harbor on May 22, 1969, deck logs show a utility boat went ashore for one hour with 8 crewmembers aboard

USS Long Beach (CGN-9) [Guided Missile Cruiser, Nuclear] while anchored in Da Nang Harbor, deck logs show that utility boats went ashore with passengers on May 5, 1968 and the Captains Gig went ashore on September 4, 1969

USS Oklahoma City (CLG-5) [Light Guided Missile Cruiser] sent small boats ashore while anchored in Da Nang Harbor during September 1966 and January-February 1970 and sent ship’s softball team ashore during July 1969 (see other category)

USS Porterfield (DD-682 [Destroyer] while operating in close coastal waters on March 19, 1966, two officers and a seaman went ashore in a junk and, on April 8, 1966, a small boat went ashore from Da Nang Harbor with Vietnamese officers

USS Wiltsie (DD-716) while operating in close coastal waters during September 1970, two officers and five sailors were sent ashore by helicopter for one night (see other category)

USS Epperson (DD-719) while anchored off Phan Thiet on November 16, 1969, crewmembers went ashore for liberty leave (see other category)

USS O’Brien (DD-725) sent motorized whaleboat ashore while anchored in Da Nang Harbor on December 16, 1969

USS Maddox (DD-731) sent motorized whaleboats ashore while anchored in Vung Tau Harbor on March 3, 1967

USS Blue (DD-744) anchored in Da Nang Harbor on April 21, 1968, with crewmembers going ashore for picnic

USS Lowry (DD-770) sent motorized whaleboat ashore at Phan Thiet on June 5, 1968 (see other category)

USS Stormes (DD-780) sent motorized whaleboat ashore to assist 2^nd ARVN and 2^nd US Advisory Group on September 17, 1966

USS Eversole (DD-789) sent motorized whaleboat ashore to Chu Lai from offshore anchorage to transfer two crewmembers on July 25, 1972

USS Shelton (DD-790) conducted small boat inland waterborne logistics craft (WBLC) surveillance of Cua Viet River on August 16, 1972

USS Higbee (DD-806) sent small boats ashore while anchored in Da Nang Harbor on September 9, 1965 and December 7, 1967 (see other category)

USS Corry (DD-817) sent small boats ashore while anchored in Da Nang Harbor January 11-12, 1969 and Nha Trang Harbor February 20, 1969

USS New (DD-818) sent whaleboat ashore from Da Nang Harbor for mission briefing on August 8, 1967

USS Carpenter (DD-825) sent medical team ashore at Song Tra Village on December 20, 1968

USS Everett F. Larson (DD-830) sent crew members ashore for beach party while anchored in Van Phong Bay on September 15, 1969

USS Hanson (DD-832) sent motorized whaleboats ashore from Da Nang Harbor on September 17, 1972, for medical evacuation and mail pickup (see other category)

USS Power (DD-839) sent Commanding Officer and others ashore in whaleboat for briefing while anchored in Da Nang Harbor on November 13, 1968

USS Bausell (DD-845) sent small boat ashore for briefing while in Da Nang Harbor on November 27, 1968

USS Richard E. Krause (DD-849) sent motorized whaleboats ashore while in Da Nang Harbor on December 29, 1972

USS Rupertus (DD-851) sent motorized whaleboats ashore while in Da Nang Harbor on January 4, 1973

USS McCaffery (DD-860) sent small boat ashore while in Da Nang Harbor December 12-14, 1972

USS Vogelgesang (DD-862) anchored in Da Nang Harbor and sent 30 crewmembers ashore on August 15, 1966 (see other category)

USS Steinaker (DD-863) anchored off Phan Thiet July 25- August 3, 1968 with crewmembers going ashore to visit Junk Base

USS Arnold J. Isbell (DD-869) sent small boat ashore while anchored in Da Nang Harbor on April 12, 1970

USS John R. Craig (DD-885) anchored off Nha Trang during summer 1968 with crewmembers going ashore for beach party (see other category)

USS Fechteler (DD-870) sent crew ashore for beach party on September 25, 1965, and while conducting night patrols of Da Nang Harbor, crewmembers went ashore for daytime liberty leave during October 1965 (see other category)

USS Duncan (DD-874) sent small boat ashore for briefing while anchored in Da Nang Harbor on December 14, 1968 (see other category)

USS Henry W. Tucker (DD-875) sent whaleboat ashore at Da Nang for briefing on January 23, 1969; sent medical team ashore while off Quang Ngai on 27 February, 1969; conducted whaleboat transfers of personnel to shore on August 27, 1972; sent small boat ashore to transport body for transfer to An Thoi on November 14, 1972; ship’s helicopter transported personnel ashore on November 22, 1972 (see other categories)

USS Rogers (DD-876) sent whaleboats ashore while anchored in Da Nang Harbor July 29-August 3, 1971

USS Davis (DD-937) sent small boats ashore from anchorage while providing gunfire support in Da Nang Harbor during December 1968

USS Hull (DD-945) sent small boats ashore while anchored off Nha Trang on February 17, 1968

USS Morton (DD-948) sent small boat ashore at Hue on November 13, 1972 (see other category)

USS Barney (DDG-6) [Guided Missile Destroyer] while serving as Flagship for Destroyer Division One Six Two, sent crew members ashore at Da Nang for gunfire mission planning during June-July 1967

USS Berkeley (DDG-15) sent small boats ashore at Da Nang and elsewhere for gunfire support missions during May-June 1970

USS Goldsborough (DDG-20) sent small boats ashore from Da Nang Harbor on December 20 and 24, 1972 (see other category)

USS Benjamin Stoddert (DDG-22) sent small boats ashore from Da Nang Harbor on September 17, 1969 and December 22, 1970 (see other category)

USS Ernest G. Small (DDR-838) [Radar Picket Destroyer] repeatedly sent small boats ashore with naval gunfire spotters in II Corps area during April-May 1966

USS McGinty (DE-365) [Destroyer Escort] sent crew members ashore at Da Nang for a party on WESTPAC cruise during spring 1962

USS Charles E. Brannon (DE-446) sent crew members ashore for liberty leave at Duong Dong during March 1962

USS Davidson (DE-1045) sent motorized whaleboat ashore while anchored off coast of Tan My on September 20, 1972 (see other category)

USS O’Callahan (DE-1051) sent gunfire spotters ashore in vicinity of Cua Viet River on January 13, 1973

USS Gray (DE-1054) sent motorized whaleboat ashore from Da Nang Harbor for mail pickup on October 7, 1972

USS Ouellet (DE-1077) sent motorized whaleboat ashore from Da Nang Harbor on July 29, 1972

USS Koiner (DER-331) [Destroyer Escort, Radar] crew had liberty leave at Vung Tau and survey parties were sent ashore at various locations while on Operation Market Time radar patrol during 1967

USS Forester (DER-334) crew had liberty leave at Nha Trang on June 28 and July 10 1965, with whale boat ashore for medical assistance on August 20, 1965

USS Wilhoite (DER-397) sent crew members onto enemy vessel in De Sey Ky River during July 16, 1965 and sent landing party ashore from Vung Tau Harbor on September 28, 1968

USS Hissem (DER-400) moored to port side of USS Tuluita (ARG-4) for repairs in Vung Tau area from January 11-23, 1967, with evidence that crewmembers went ashore for liberty leave and sent motorized whaleboat ashore for briefing at An Thoi on February 3, 1967

USS King (DLG-10) sent whaleboat ashore from Da Nang Harbor for operations briefing on April 13, 1969 and August 8, 1970

USS Mahan (DLG-11) [Guided Missile Frigate] sent a “group of personnel” ashore at Da Nang for a short tour of Monkey Mountain on October 6, 1968 (see other category)

USS Dahlgren (DLG-12) sent motorized whaleboat and Captain’s gig ashore while anchored in Da Nang Harbor on June 4, 1967

USS William V. Pratt (DLG-13) sent whaleboat ashore from Da Nang Harbor for mission briefing on August 8, 1967

USS Dewey (DLG-14) sent whaleboat ashore for briefing while in Da Nang Harbor on January 15, 1968

USS Worden (DLG-18) sent whaleboat ashore for briefing while in Da Nang Harbor on November 27, 1968

USS Richmond K. Turner (DLG-20) sent whaleboat ashore from Da Nang Harbor for mission briefing on December 4, 1966

USS England (DLG-22) sent whaleboat ashore from Da Nang Harbor for mission briefings on March 9, 1967 and July 30, 1968

USS Belknap (DLG-26) while in Da Nang Harbor on December 1, 1969, received crew members back to ship from temporary duty ashore

USS Jouett (DLG-29) sent whaleboat ashore from Da Nang Harbor for mission briefings on February 15, April 15, and June 1, 1968

USS Fox (DLG-33) sent small boat ashore from Da Nang Harbor with Captain for mission briefings on October 24, 1967

USS Biddle (DLG-34) sent whaleboat ashore from Da Nang Harbor for briefings on March 5 and June 2, 1968 and delivered North Vietnamese fisherman ashore at Da Nang on July 30, 1969

USS Truxtun (DLGN-35) sent small boats ashore from Da Nang Harbor on June 2, 1968 and October 25, 1969

USS Cleveland (LPD-7) [Amphibious Transport Dock] sent Naval Academy Midshipmen on training mission ashore at Da Nang on 9-10 July, 1970 (see other category)

USS Tripoli (LPH-10) [Landing Platform Helicopter] sent crew members ashore for beach party at Da Nang on July 29, 1967 (see other category)

USS Carter Hall (LSD-3) [Landing Ship Dock] served four-month duty as “boat repair ship” in Da Nang Harbor during 1965, with evidence of crew members going ashore (see other category)

USS Oak Hill  (LSD-7) served as station and repair ship in Da Nang Harbor with evidence of crewmembers going ashore from January through March 1966 (see other category)

USS Whetstone (LSD-27) anchored as long term “boat haven” in Da Nang Harbor for repairs of smaller vessels, with evidence of crewmembers going ashore, during April-May 1965 (see other category)

USS Alamo (LSD-33) while anchored in Da Nang Harbor, sent crewmembers ashore for R&R beach parties during March-April 1969 (see other category)

USS Epping Forest (MCS-7) [Mine Countermeasure Support Ship] conducted “goodwill” tours at Cam Ranh Bay and Nha Trang with crewmembers going ashore and Vietnamese coming aboard during September-October 1964, and mine sweep of Cua Viet River using smaller vessels from main ship during May 1968

USS Guide (MSO-447) [Minesweeper-Ocean] sent motorized whaleboats ashore for briefings while in Da Nang Harbor during May 1970 (see other category)

USS Queenfish (SS-393) sent crew ashore for liberty leave while anchored in Nha Trang Harbor from August 27-September 7, 1962

USS Camden (AOE-2) sent a helicopter to Da Nang on October 6, 1970

USS Haleakala (AE-25) anchored in Da Nang Harbor August 27 – 29, 1969, due to boiler accident and sent crew ashore prior to departure for Subic Bay for repairs

USS Savage (DER-386) Sent crew ashore to provide medical assistance to villages from January 1 to 15, 1966, and from June 12 to September 15, 1966

USS Lawrence (DDG-4) Sent a motorized whaleboat ashore on December 8, 1972, to pick up mail and passengers

USS Albert David (DE-1050) Sent a motorized whaleboat ashore while anchored in Da Nang Harbor on December 30, 1969

USS Waddell (DDG-24) Launched a whaleboat and Captain’s GIG to shore while anchored in Da Nang Harbor on December 28, 1971

USS Sample (DE-1048) – sent motor whaleboat to shore on July 26, 1972

USS Blandy (DD-943) – sent motor whaleboat to shore on January 25, 1973

USS Richard S. Edwards (DD-950) – sent personnel ashore via small boat on November 5, 1967, and December 1, 1967 (see other category)

USS Brush (DD-745) – sent whaleboat ashore on January 11, 1969, while anchored in Cam Ranh Bay and on January 12, 1969, while anchored in Vung Tau Harbor

USS Diachenko (APD-123) – conducted tactical beach surveys with crew members from April to August 1968; also, on May 21, 1968, while anchored in Qui Nhon Harbor, a harbor patrol craft arrived at the ship and departed with the commanding officer, operations officer, and communications officer for briefings in Qui Nhon.

USS Henry B. Wilson (DDG-7) – anchored in Da Nang Harbor on July 21, 1965, and sent crew members ashore for liberty following Change-of-Command ceremony.

USS Edmonds (DE-406) – anchored in Da Nang Harbor on April 6 – 7, 1962, and sent crew members ashore

Ships operating on Vietnam’s close coastal waters for extended periods with evidence that smaller craft from the ship regularly delivered supplies or troops ashore

USS Zelima (AF-49) [Auxiliary Stores Ship] conducted numerous in port supply replenishments at Da Nang, Cam Ranh Bay, Vung Tau, and An Thoi from July-October 1965, January-August 1966, October-December 1968, and May-June 1969

USS Vega (AF-59) conducted numerous in port supply replenishments with docking and crew going ashore at Da Nang, Cam Ranh Bay, Vung Tau, and An Thoi during March-April 1966, July-August 1968, June-July 1969, November-December 1970, and April-September 1972 (see other category)

USS Mars (AFS-1) [Combat Stores Ship] conducted numerous on shore supply replenishments at Da Nang, Cam Ranh Bay, Vung Tau, and An Thoi from May 1965 to November 1972 with evidence of crewmembers going ashore

USS Niagara Falls (AFS-3) conducted on shore supply replenishments with helicopters and small boats at Da Nang, Cam Ranh Bay, Vung Tau, and An Thoi from April 1968 to March 1973

USS White Plains (AFS-4) conducted on shore supply replenishments with helicopters and small boats at Da Nang, Cam Ranh Bay, Vung Tau, and An Thoi from January 1969 to March 1973

USS San Jose (AFS-7) conducted on shore supply replenishments with helicopters and small boats at Da Nang, Cam Ranh Bay, and Vung Tau from October 1971 to February 1972 and September 1972 to March 1973

USS Mount McKinley (AGC-7) [Amphibious Force Flagship] conducted troop and supply beach landings at Da Nang and elsewhere during March-May 1965, June-July 1966, and July-November 1967 (see other category)

USS Estes (AGC-12) conducted troop and supply beach landings at Chu Lai and Da Nang during March-October 1965 (see other category)

USS Winston (AKA-94) [Attack Cargo Ship] conducted relief operations into Da Nang from November 13-23, 1964, to assist the local people in recovering from a typhoon and resultant flooding; and conducted troop and supply beach landings during July 1965; April-August 1966; September-October 1967; and November 1968-May 1969

USS Mathews (AKA-96) on-loaded supplies at Da Nang and delivered them up the Cua Viet River to Dong Ha with “mike boats” from August through December 1967

USS Merrick (AKA-97) conducted troop and cargo beach landing with small boats at Hue, Chu Lai, and Da Nang from July 1965 through November 1968 (see other category)

USS Seminole (AKA/LKA-104) [Attack/Amphibious Cargo Ship] sent smaller amphibious assault craft ashore for troop landings in November 1965 in support of Operations BLUE MARLIN I and II; conducted troop landings with small boats at Da Nang, Hoi An, and Quang Tri from March through August 1967, September 1968 through February 1969, and during January 1970 (see other category)

USS Skagit (AKA/LKA-105) conducted troop and cargo beach “mike boat” landings at Da Nang, Chu Lai, and Quang Ngai from November 1965 to November 1967

USS Union (AKA/LKA-106) conducted numerous troop and cargo “mike boat” beach landings at Da Nang, Cam Ranh Bay, and Chu Lai from March 1965 to November 1969 (see other category)

USS Washburn (AKA/LKA-108) conducted numerous small boat beach landings at Da Nang, Thon My Thuy, Hue on Perfume River, and Dong Ha on Cua Viet River from 1965 to 1969

USS Tulare (AKA/LKA-112) conducted troop and cargo “mike boat” beach landings at Da Nang, Chu Lai, Cam Ranh Bay, and Vung Tau from July 1965 to February 1973

USS St. Louis (AKA/LKA-116) conducted troop and cargo landings with small boats at Da Nang, Vung Tau, and Quang Nam Province during August-October 1970; January-March 1971; and April-November 1972 (see other category)

USS Navasota (AO-106) [Fleet Oiler] conducted on-shore and in-port replenishment at Vung Tau, Da Nang, Mai Ong Dai, etc. during September 1965-May 1967; January-July 1968; April-July 1969; June-November 1970; and September 1971-June 1972

USS General R M Blatchford (AP-153) [Transport Ship] landed elements of 1^st Infantry Division at Vung Tau by small boats during October 1965

USS George Clymer (APA-27) [Amphibious Attack Transport] conducted troop and supply “mike boat” beach landings during July 1965, and March-July 1966, at Da Nang and Chu Lai (see other category)

USS Bayfield (APA-33) conducted troop on loading and “mike boat” landings at Da Nang, Chu Lai, Baie de My Han, and Cua Viet River from July through October 1965 and February through May 1967

USS Cavalier (APA-37) conducted troop landings with mike boats at Chu Lai and Da Nang during March- August 1966 and January-May 1968 (see other category)

USS Henrico (APA-45) conducted numerous troop landings at Da Nang, Chu Lai, and Hue from March through May 1965 and from August 1966 through March 1967

USS Lenawee (APA-195) conducted troop and supply landings at Da Nang and Chu Lai from April 1965 to December 1966

USS Magoffin (APA-199)   conducted troop and supply landings at Da Nang and other Vietnam locations from October 1965 through February 1966 and May through November, 1967 (see other category)

USS Navarro (APA-215) conducted troop on and off loading operations from May 1965 to February 1968 at Da Nang, Chu Lai, and Quang Ngai Province (see other category)

USS Okanogan (APA-220) conducted troop and supply landings at various locations during January-July 1962, September 1963-April 1964, July-October 1965, July 1966, November 1966- March 1967,  and June-November 1968 (see other category)

USS Pickaway (APA-222) conducted troop and supply landings at various locations during January 1963, July 1965, March-June 1966, and June-October 1967 (see other category)

USS Renville (APA-227) conducted troop landings at Da Nang during August-September 1964, May-August 1965, and March-October 1966

USS Paul Revere (APA-248) conducted small boat troop landings at Quang Ngai Province, Da Nang, and elsewhere from August 1965-April 1966, June- November 1967, March-August 1969, September 1970-March 1971, and August 1972-February 1973 (see other category)

USS Blue Ridge (LCC-19) [Amphibious Command Ship] participated in amphibious landings of troops during March 1972

USS Mobile (LKA-115) [Amphibious Cargo Ship] transported troops and cargo to/from Da Nang and elsewhere July-September 1970, during April 1971, October-November 1971, and January-July 1972 (see other category)

USS Vancouver (LPD-2) [Amphibious Transport Dock] while anchored offshore, conducted numerous amphibious troop beach landings with smaller “mike boats” in the areas of Da Nang, Cam Ranh Bay, Cua Viet River, and Mekong River Delta from February 1965 to September 1971 (see other category)

USS Cleveland (LPD-7) while anchored offshore, sent “mike boats” up Cua Viet River and Hue River from November 1967 through 1968 and up Saigon River during September 1969 (see other category)

USS Dubuque (LPD-8) transported troops, equipment, and supplies ashore with smaller vessels and docked at Da Nang and elsewhere from June-November 1968, October-December 1969, January-March 1970, and April-July 1971

USS Denver  (LPD-9) transported troops, equipment, and supplies ashore with smaller vessels and docked at Da Nang and elsewhere from February-September 1970;  March-June and November 1971; and January-August 1972

USS Juneau (LPD-10) picked up troops and equipment with smaller vessels and transported them out of Vietnam from August 1970 to March 1971 and June to November 1972

USS Iwo Jima (LPH-2) [Landing Platform, Helicopter] operated as troop transport with helicopters and smaller vessels transporting troops on and off shore for amphibious assaults from May 1965 to August 1972 (see other category)

USS Okinawa (LPH-3) operated as troop transport with helicopters and smaller vessels transporting troops on and off shore for amphibious assaults, with evidence that crew members went ashore to assist civilians, from April-November 1967, December 1968-May 1969, June- November 1970, and April-November 1972

USS Princeton (LPH-5) operated as troop transport with helicopters and smaller vessels transporting troops on and off shore during April 1962 and from October 1964 to December 1968 (see other category)

USS Valley Forge (LPH-8) operated as troop transport with helicopters and smaller vessels transporting troops on and off shore from September 1964 to September 1969 (see other category)

USS Tripoli (LPH-10) operated as troop transport with helicopters and smaller vessels transporting troops on and off shore intermittently from May 1967 to December 1973 (see other category)

USS Carter Hall (LSD-3) [Landing Ship Dock] while anchored offshore, conducted troop-landing operations with “mike boats” at Da Nang, Dong Ha, and other locations from July 1965 through November 1968 (see other category)

USS Gunston Hall (LSD-5) conducted numerous troop, supply, and equipment landings at Da Nang, Chu Lai, etc. during January-June 1965; May-December 1966; March-July 1968; and September 1969 to February 1970 (see other category)

USS Oak Hill (LSD-7) conducted numerous troop and supply landings with evidence of crew members going ashore at Da Nang, Chu Lai, Vung Tau, and Hue, from October 1965-April 1966, March-August 1967, and September 1968-February 1969 (see other category)

USS Colonial (LSD-18) conducted numerous troop, supply, and equipment landings at Da Nang, Chu Lai, and Vung Tau from March 1966 to September 1969 (see other category)

USS Cabildo (LSD-16) conducted numerous troop, supply, and equipment landings at Da Nang, Cam Ranh Bay, and Vung Tau from July 1965 to November 1968

USS Catamount (LSD-17) conducted numerous troop, supply, and equipment landings at Da Nang, Vung Tau, and Cua Viet River area on piers and with small boats from December 1965 to May 1969 (see other category)

USS Fort Marion (LSD-22) conducted numerous supply landings at Da Nang, Cam Ranh Bay, and Mekong Delta area, with crew members going ashore, from October 1965-June 1966, September-December 1967, and December 1968-May 1969 (see other category)

USS Whetstone (LSD-27) conducted numerous troop and supply landings with smaller mike boats at Da Nang, Hue, Phu Bai, and Dong Ha from March 1965 to September 1969 (see other category)

USS Thomaston (LSD-28) conducted numerous troop and supply landings with small boats at Da Nang, Cam Ranh Bay, Song Co Chien River area, and Cua Viet River area from 1965 to 1972 [Note: no AO exposure for 1975 operations]

USS Point Defiance (LSD-31) conducted numerous troop and supply landings with small boats at Da Nang, Van Tuong, and Kien Hoa from May 1965 through October 1972

(see other category)

USS Alamo (LSD-33) conducted numerous troop, supply, and equipment landings with smaller boats at Da Nang, Vung Tau, Song Bo De, An Thoi, and Tan My between August 1964 and October 1972 (see other category)

USS Hermitage (LSD-34) conducted troop landings in Da Nang area from June through October 1967 (see other category)

USS Monticello (LSD-35) conducted numerous troop and supply landings at Chu Lai and elsewhere from October 1965-March 1966, February-September 1967, March1968-February 1969, February-September 1970, March 1971, November 1971, October-December 1972, and January 1973

USS Anchorage (LSD-36) transported troops and supplies to and from shore with smaller craft at Da Nang, Cam Ranh Bay, Vung Tau, and An Thoi from February 1970 through July 1972 (see other category)

USNS General W. H. Gordon (T-AP-117) [Military Sea Transportation Service (MSTS) Transport Ship] transported troops and cargo to Vung Tau and elsewhere in Vietnam, with crew members going ashore, during 1965 and from December 1967 to March 1968

USNS Barrett (T-AP-196) carried US Army 2^nd Transportation Company to Qui Nhon during August 1965 and transported additional troops to Vietnam from April to December 1968 and January to May 1969

USNS Geiger (T-AP-197) transported troops to Qui Nhon and Vung Tau from September to December 1965 and additional troops to Vietnam January to February 1967 and July 1969

In closing, FREE assistance is available at LZ Bronco Veteran & First Responder Resource Center, 1950 Bronco Highway, Burrillville RI. Current hours are Wednesday and Sunday from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Walk ins are welcomed, we do encourage calling to schedule an appointment (401) 677-9838 or email [email protected], or Facebook LZ Bronco. Additionally hours can be made available to accommodate any veteran or family member needing assisting.

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EVENTS

Monday. July 20 2026 FREE Veteran Luncheon, for veterans and guest p.m. at:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Perella’s Ristorante , 311 Metacom Ave, Warren RI. Dynamites will be served.

Monday July 20, 2026, Car Show at LZ Bronco, 1950 Bronco Highway, Burrillville RI , 4:00 p.m. to sunset. Open to all, all proceeds to benefit the Italian American War Veterans of US FREE luncheons and dinners held throughout the state. Prizes for car or truck with lowest RI license plate, oldest WWII or Korean War veteran attending, youngest combat Vietnam veteran, and any Veteran who had duty at LZ Bronco while in Vietnam. FREE Ice cream and hotdog for all veterans who attend, to include their minor children and adult or minor grandkids. Food items to be available for sale include , Sausage / Peppers/ Onions sandwiches, saugy or hot dogs dogs. The LZ Bronco Veteran and Resource center will be open for checking out and for information on veteran VA benefits, federal, state, and burial benefits. More information, contact John (401) 677-9838 or email [email protected]

July 25, 2026. Saturday Annual Bootcamp Breakfast Mission Boots To briefcase will hold our Bootcamp Breakfast at the Pilgrim Senior Center in Warwick from 8 – 11.  A savory FREE hot breakfast, catered by PB&J Restaurant,  will kick off the morning followed by a Resource Fair and career  transition classes on resume prep & interview skills.

Wednesday, November 11, 2026 The state’s largest fundraiser for homeless veterans is shaping up to be the biggest one yet. The yard sign is always the majority sponsor as last year there was 70 in total. Rucking for Roofs and the Rhode Island State Elks Association has been named the top resource for at risk veterans from the HUD VASH.

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LZ Bronco Veteran and First Responder Resource Center

July, 2026, 250^th Celebration Schedule

Throughout the month of July, LZ Bronco Veteran and First Responder Resource Center, 1950 Bronco Highway, Harrisville RI will be offering veterans FREE apple pie, ice cream, and hotdogs on select Sundays.

The location offers plenty of outdoor and indoor sitting. The facility currently is not open to the public on a daily basis, however, the resource center will be open every Sunday from 12:00 to 5:00 p.m throughout the month of July and August for veterans and first responders who would like to stop by and learn more information on their benefits, or need assistance with VA, federal, state and or local benefits.

The veterans organization is seeking sponsors for remaining Sundays in the months of July and August. Sponsors are also encouraged to be “ice cream scoopers” and “dessert servers” during the Sunday their organization or family sponsored.

Gold sponsorship. Suggested $250 for a Sunday. If interested in doing a sponsorship or donation to support the Sunday events at LZ Bronco Veteran and First Responder Resource Center 250th Celebration thanking our veterans and first responders, go to the website, https://italianamericanwarveteran.org/

In the remarks note the Sunday event date you would like to sponsor.

Sponsors are encouraged to volunteer during the Sunday their organization or family is sponsoring. Enjoy serving a hotdog, or doughboy, or ice cream to a veteran THANKING HIM OR HER FOR THEIR SERVICE.

If sponsor can put together a team of volunteers, contact ITAM volunteer coordinator, (401) 677-9838 or via email, [email protected]. Additionally, checks can be made out to ITAM, 18 Winchester Ave , North Smithfield RI.

All donations of any amount are welcomed, please note in the remarks section on website or check, SUNDAY THANKING OUR VETERANS. Donations are tax deductible.

Sunday, July 19, 2026 FREE Apple Pie Topped With Ice Cream for Desert for Veterans in Celebration of America’s 250^th anniversary. The event is sponsored by the Italian American War Veterans of US, Department of Rhode Island and ( OPEN SPONSORSHIP)   from 12:00 to 6:00PM. All veteran’s minor children and grandchildren are also FREE, if accompanied by the veteran.

Sunday, July 26, 2026 FREE Apple Pie Topped With Ice Cream for Desert for Veterans in Celebration of America’s 250^th anniversary. The event is sponsored by the Italian American War Veterans of US, Department of Rhode Island and (OPEN SPONSORSHIP)   from 12:00 to 6:00PM. All veteran’s minor children and grandchildren are also FREE, if accompanied by the veteran.

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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

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

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 â€ ¯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 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/