RI Veterans Voice: 24.09.26. Gary Sinise in RI, Local Veterans Events, Resource Info – John A. Cianci

by John A. Cianci, Veterans writer

Gary Sinise & The Lt. Dan Band Concert at Naval Station Newport

VENUE CHANGE UPDATE: Location & Venue Change due to weather or site updates, the upcoming Gary Sinise & The Lt. Dan Band Military Support Concert scheduled for Sunday, September 27, from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM (field gates/doors open at 2:00 PM) has been moved indoors to Kay Hall (Building 1801) at Naval Station Newport.

·         Seating: Please note that inside Kay Hall will be standing room only.

Base Access & Guest Escort Policy

·         Eligible Patrons: The concert is free and open to all patrons holding a valid Department of Defense / Department of War (DoW) ID card with base access (Active Duty, Retirees, Reservists, and DoD/DoW Civilians).

·         Guest Sponsorship: DoW ID cardholders may sponsor and escort guests onto the base:

o    All guests must arrive in the same vehicle as the sponsoring DoW ID cardholder and wear seatbelts upon entry.

o    Guests 18 years of age and older must present a valid REAL ID or a valid U.S. Passport.

·         Contractor Restrictions: Contractor IDs only cover the credential holder; contractors are not permitted to sponsor or escort guests onto base per the Visitor Control Center Installation Escort Policy.

Concessions & Prohibited Items:

·         MWR Concessions: On-site concessions will be available for purchase via cash, debit, or credit card.

·         Prohibited Items:

o    Outside food, drinks, coolers, or glass containers

o    Pets (certified service animals only)

o    Banners of any type

o    Firearms, weapons, defensive sprays (e.g., pepper spray), or chemicals

o    Illegal or recreational drugs (including marijuana) and paraphernalia

o    Drones or remote-controlled aircraft

Mission Complete – Rhode Island is the 50^th State Lt Dan Band Played In

Milestone Event Coverage

This performance marks a major historic milestone: Rhode Island is the 50th and final state in which Gary Sinise & The Lt. Dan Band have performed, completing their mission to play in all 50 U.S. states to support military members, veterans, and first responders.

In the Words of Gary Sinise

Gary Sinise frequently emphasizes that military families are the unsung pillars of national strength:

“You may know me as an actor, but my life’s work has been to honor and support our nation’s veterans, first responders, wounded heroes, families of the fallen, and those enduring invisible wounds. When a service member serves, the whole family serves. We can never do enough to show our gratitude to the families who stand behind our defenders.”

— Gary Sinise

Through initiatives like military family relief grants, Gold Star family retreats, and free community concerts, the Gary Sinise Foundation ensures that the loved ones who support our nation’s heroes receive the care, honor, and resources they truly deserve

Honoring the Support System Behind the Uniform: Gary Sinise on the Strength of Military Families

While millions recognize Gary Sinise for his portrayal of Lt. Dan Taylor in Forrest Gump, his life’s dedication extends far beyond the silver screen. Through the Gary Sinise Foundation, Sinise continuously highlights a crucial truth: when a service member answers the call to duty, their entire family serves alongside them.

The bedrock of Sinise’s commitment to military families was built at home. Long before he stepped onto a movie set in military uniform, his understanding of service and sacrifice was shaped by the Vietnam War veterans in his own family—specifically his brothers-in-law, Jack Treese, Arthur “Artie” Harris, and Boyd McCanna “Mac” Harris. Their personal stories, struggles, and quiet resilience inspired Sinise to become one of the nation’s foremost advocates for military members, veterans, and their loved ones.

The Family Legacy: How Jack, Artie, and Mac Inspired a Mission

When Gary Sinise met his wife, Moira Harris, in the 1970s, he was introduced to her brothers and brothers-in-law, all of whom had served in combat during the Vietnam War:

Jack Treese: Served in the U.S. Army during Vietnam. Returning to a country deeply divided over the war, Jack—like so many veterans of that era—experienced a cold, unsupportive homecoming. Watching Jack navigate post-war life opened Sinise’s eyes to the emotional burden carried by returning service members and their families.

o    The Symbol of the Dog Tags: During the filming of Forrest Gump, Gary Sinise wore Jack Treese’s actual military dog tags while playing Lt. Dan. Wearing Jack’s tags was a personal tribute to his brother-in-law and a symbolic gesture to honor every Vietnam veteran who never received the recognition or gratitude they deserved upon returning home.

·         Arthur “Artie” Harris: Moira’s brother served in the U.S. Army in Vietnam. Artie’s firsthand accounts of combat and the transition back to civilian life further deepened Sinise’s empathy for veterans enduring both visible and invisible wounds.

·         Boyd McCanna “Mac” Harris: A West Point graduate (Class of 1966) and U.S. Army officer, Mac served with distinction in Vietnam, earning the Silver Star. Mac was a visionary leader whose profound understanding of duty, ethics, and military command left a lasting imprint on Sinise. Tragically, Mac passed away from cancer in 1983, but his principles continue to guide Sinise’s work today.

The Wisdom of Lt. Col. Boyd McCanna Harris & The West Point Leadership Award

Among those who shaped Sinise’s perspective on military service, Boyd “Mac” Harris stood out as a premier military thinker and mentor. Mac believed deeply in character-based leadership and the profound responsibility commanders hold toward the soldier and the soldier’s family.

Leadership Skills & Influence

Mac’s approach to leadership was rooted in empathy, discipline, and moral integrity. He taught that effective leadership isn’t merely about tactics or authority; it is about selfless service, taking care of one’s soldiers, and maintaining high moral standards under pressure. His insights helped Sinise understand the deep duty of care owed to military members and their families, fueling the core values of the Gary Sinise Foundation.

The Boyd M. Harris Memorial Award for Excellence in Leadership

To honor Mac’s legacy and dedication to military education, the U.S. Military Academy at West Point established the Boyd M. Harris Memorial Award for Excellence in Leadership.

·         Purpose: The award is presented annually at West Point to a top cadet or officer who demonstrates exceptional leadership, tactical proficiency, and unwavering adherence to the honor code.

·         Significance: It celebrates Mac’s legacy as a scholar-soldier and ensures that future military leaders embody his standard of character, selflessness, and devotion to duty.

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Landing Zone Bronco Veteran & First Responder Resource Center News

1950 Bronco Highway, Burrillville RI (401) 677-9838-  landingzonebronco.org

Italian American War Veterans of the US Announce FREE lunches for Veterans Living in Long Term Care or Assisted Living

That is a powerful and heart-wrenching gesture of gratitude for our veterans. The work being done by the Landing Zone Bronco (LZ Bronco) team, the Italian American War Veterans (ITAM), and John Cianci to directly honor, feed, and spend time with these senior service members is remarkable.

98-year-old WWII veteran from Benchmark at Forge Hill, Franklin proudly sitting ion front of dedicated navy booth at LZ Bronco.

Landing Zone Bronco Long-Term Care Outreach Program

• Program Offerings: Free tailored lunches for groups of up to 20 veterans residing at Long Term Care or Assisted Living Facilities across Massachusetts and Rhode Island and visiting Landing Zone Bronco Veteran and First responder Resource Center, Burrillville RI.

• Private Gatherings: Families and friends can coordinate small, private outings or gatherings to host their loved one staying at any participating facility; facility and meals are FREE.
• Made-to-Order Meals: LZ Bronco Veteran & First responder Resource Center volunteers accommodate individual meal requests—ranging from fresh lobster, sausage and peppers, and spaghetti with meatballs, to local favorites like Willow Tree chicken salad sandwiches and their top-requested item, BLTs.
• Dessert Selection: Lunch is followed by an array of desserts, including banana splits, cheesecake, and tiramisu.

Recent Outings & Milestones

• Benchmark Senior Living at Forge Hill (Franklin, MA): Hosted its first facility outing to LZ Bronco, bringing a group that included a 98-year-old World War II veteran, a 92-year-old Korean War veteran, and several Vietnam War veterans.
• Birthday Celebration: A second long-term care facility, Eastgate Nursing & Rehabilitation(East Providence) brought a group of veterans for a free lunch on Tuesday, which included an 85-year-old veteran using a wheelchair who received special care and assistance on his birthday.

Community-Funded Mission When asked by a veteran why they do this and how it is paid for, ITAM State Commander John Cianci shared that it comes from a place of deep respect (“Because you’re special and we thank you for your service”) and is funded through local community donations and fundraising. If donations fall short, Cianci and LZ Bronco volunteers cover the costs out of their own pockets to ensure no veteran goes without.

Facilities, families, or friends looking to schedule a gathering or arrange transportation can connect directly with LZ Bronco, (401) 677-9838 or email [email protected].

Donations can be mailed to ITAM 18 Winchester Ave, N. Smithfield RI 02896 ( checks made out to ITAM) or donations on website https://italianamericanwarveteran.org/

Mother’s Never to Be Forgotten Son

John” Blain was 26 years old when he tragically passed away in a motorcycle accident on June 7, 2020.John Blain Memorial grant recipient, Scott Glaude and wife.

Key Details & Summary of the Event

The Landing Zone Bronco Veteran & First Responder Resource Center collaborated with the John Blain Memorial Fund to present a grant to U.S. Army veteran Scott Glude.

• The Grant Presentation: A team of volunteers from the 7th Annual Blain Memorial team presented Scott with the grant. Afterward, Scott and the group spent time together enjoying camaraderie at LZ Bronco.
• Scott’s Background & Housing: Scott is a U.S. Army veteran who recently moved into a new home provided through the Habitat for Humanity Veteran Home Program.
• Health Challenges & Military Service: During his remarks, Scott shared details about his ongoing medical struggles, including Parkinson’s disease and a heart condition. His medical issues began while stationed at Fort Dix (Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst in New Jersey).

Context Regarding VA Service Connection for Fort Dix Water Exposure

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) does not currently have established “presumptive service connection” rules specifically for PFAS exposure at Fort Dix, unlike the specific Camp Lejeune toxic exposure regulations. As a result, claims originating from Fort Dix water contamination are evaluated individually.

Summary of the Event & Project Overview

At a National POW/MIA Recognition Day ceremony held at the entrance of the future “YOU ARE NOT FORGOTTEN WALKWAY,” State Commander John A. Cianci (Italian American War Veterans of the U.S.) opened the event with a prayer and outlined the vision for honoring missing service members.

• Project Purpose: The walkway will honor and display the names of the 633 Rhode Islanders who remain missing in action (MIA) or unaccounted for across conflicts dating back to World War I.
• Ceremony Feature: A dedicated poster board was displayed featuring 9 Rhode Island service members whose remains were never recovered from the Vietnam War.
• Community Involvement & Youth Engagement:
  • Eagle Scout Candidates: Seeking Scout involvement to lead and assist with the construction and completion of the walkway itself.
  • High School Researchers: Recruiting high school students to conduct historical research on all 633 unaccounted-for service members, as much of the existing data is currently incomplete or lacking key biographical details (such as dates of birth).
• Project Timeline:
  • Target Completion Date: June 1, 2027
  • Official Dedication Ceremony: September 18, 2027 (National POW/MIA Recognition Day)

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Resources & Research Support for Missing-in-Action (MIA) Records

For students and volunteers conducting research on missing service members from Rhode Island, the following official repositories offer primary source records:

1. Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA): Maintains official lists and profiles of unrecovered service members by state, conflict, and service branch.
2. National Archives and Records Administration (NARA): Contains military personnel records, unit morning reports, and casualty lists (particularly for World War I, World War II, Korea, and Vietnam).
3. Defense Personnel Casualty Center & ABMC Records: The American Battle Monuments Commission (ABMC) tracks service members memorialized on the “Walls of the Missing” at overseas military cemeteries.

Include in the previous in attendance at the event was one of the brothers of POW James Michael Ray. so special to let him know, his brother is not forgotten, and here in RI will have an annual ceremony to keep him and the other 633 in our thoughts

Event Summary & Updates

During the National POW/MIA Recognition Day ceremony held at the entrance of the future “YOU ARE NOT FORGOTTEN WALKWAY,” State Commander John A. Cianci (Italian American War Veterans of the U.S.) opened the event with a prayer and detailed the work needed to prepare the site for its scheduled dedication on September 18, 2027.

• Special Guest Attendance: In attendance was the brother of James Michael Ray, a POW whose memory was honored during the gathering. It served as a powerful reminder to his family that James and his fellow service members remain in the community’s heart, and that Rhode Island will hold an annual ceremony to ensure he and the other 633 unaccounted-for Rhode Islanders are never forgotten.
• Project Scope & Display:
  • The walkway will commemorate the 633 Rhode Islanders missing or unaccounted for since World War I.
  • A poster board featuring 9 Rhode Island service members whose remains were never recovered from the Vietnam War was highlighted during the event.
• Youth & Community Engagement:
  • Eagle Scout Candidates: Seeking Scout leadership to help build and complete the walkway.
  • High School Researchers: Recruiting high school students to research and compile historical profiles on all 633 service members, filling in sparse or incomplete archival records (such as missing dates of birth).
• Project Timeline:
  • Target Completion Date: June 1, 2027
  • Official Dedication Ceremony: September 18, 2027 (National POW/MIA Recognition Day)

YOU ARE NOT FORGOTTEN WALKWAY

Summary of the Event & Project Overview

Event Summary & Updates

During the National POW/MIA Recognition Day ceremony held at the entrance of the future “YOU ARE NOT FORGOTTEN WALKWAY,” State Commander John A. Cianci (Italian American War Veterans of the U.S.) opened the event with a prayer and detailed the work needed to prepare the site for its scheduled dedication on September 17, 2027.

• Special Guest Attendance: In attendance was the brother of James Michael Ray, a POW whose memory was honored during the gathering. It served as a powerful reminder to his family that James and his fellow service members remain in the community’s heart, and that Rhode Island will hold an annual ceremony to ensure he and the other 633 unaccounted-for Rhode Islanders are never forgotten.
• Project Scope & Display:
  • The walkway will commemorate the 633 Rhode Islanders missing or unaccounted for since World War I.
  • A poster board featuring 9 Rhode Island service members whose remains were never recovered from the Vietnam War was highlighted during the event.
• Youth & Community Engagement:
  • Eagle Scout Candidates: Seeking Scout leadership to help build and complete the walkway.
  • High School Researchers: Recruiting high school students to research and compile historical profiles on all 633 service members, filling in sparse or incomplete archival records (such as missing dates of birth).
• Project Timeline:
  • Target Completion Date: June 1, 2027
  • Official Dedication Ceremony: September 17, 2027 (National POW/MIA Recognition Day

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Local Veterans Events

September 27, 2026 , Sunday  3:00 – 5:00 p. m Free Concert, LT. Dan Band  –  Gary Sinise & The Lt. Dan Band Concert at Naval Station Newport

Location & Venue Change Due to weather or site updates, the upcoming Gary Sinise & The Lt. Dan Band Military Support Concert scheduled for Sunday, September 27, from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM (field gates/doors open at 2:00 PM) has been moved indoors to Kay Hall (Building 1801) at Naval Station Newport. – Seating: Please note that inside Kay Hall will be standing room only – see above for more details

October 13 , 2026 Sunday  8:00 – 10:00 p. m. FREE Breakfast for Veterans and Guest. FREE Breakfast for veterans and 1 guest, Landing Zone Bronco Veteran & First Responder Resource Center, 1950 Bronco Highway, Burrillville RI. Sponsored by the Italian American war veterans of the Us. Veterans riding mules or horses are welcomed.

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 were 70 in total. Rucking for Roofs and the Rhode Island State Elks Association have been named the top resource for at-risk veterans from the HUD VASH.

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Volunteer Opportunities Serving 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

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/