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RI Veterans: Did you know? 14.05.26 (Veterans’ News, Local events, resources) – John A. Cianci
Police Week – RI State Police Event – TODAY
Governor McKee will deliver remarks at the Rhode Island State Police’s memorial ceremony to honor state troopers who were killed in the line of duty, and those who have passed over the years at 11am at the Rhode Island State Police Barracks, Specialty Garage Bay, 311 Danielson Pike, in North Scituate, RI
Also participating: Rhode Island Office of Veterans Services, leading mental health advocates, and Veteran entrepreneurs from across Rhode Island and the nation for a powerful virtual event in recognition of Mental Health Action Day.
This event will be live-streamed on the Rhode Island Office of Veterans Services Facebook page
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Rhode Island Veterans In The News
4 Rhode Island Operation Iraqi Freedom veterans and retired Rhode Island National Guard soldiers traveled from Rhode Island to Hilton Head, South Carolina, for the 2026 Lowcountry Foundation for Wounded Military Heroes (LFWMH) Golf Classics on May 4 at Wexford Club.
Upon arriving at Hilton Head for the Wexford event, the 4 (Major Charlie Mulcahy, MSG John A. Cianci, MSG Eddie Rose, and SFC Michael Cusic) all retired Rhode Island Army National Guard members were welcomed by another Operation Iraqi Freedom/retired RIARNG, CW4 Nikki Toti.
Wexford Golf Club, Hilton Head: From left to right, retired MSG Eddie Rose, Major Charlie Mulcahy, MSG John A Cianci, SFC Michael Cusick, and CW$ Nikki Toti.
Toti had not heard about the event; however, with assistance from Cianci and his host, Marge, the event coordinators were contacted to inquire if Toti could be added to a team.
“The Lowcountry Foundation for Wounded Military Heroes team is unbelievable, and my past experience collaborating with them to place a team in the Wexford Golf Club from Rhode Island, I had no doubts Toti would be added,” said John A. Cianci, Italian American War Veterans of the US (ITAM) State Commander/Veteran Service Officer.
The ITAM organization (https://italianamericanwarveteran.org/) sponsors a team from Rhode Island every year. The ITAM organization pays for round-trip flights, lodging, and transportation for the RI Veterans.
The funds come from ITAM MWR ( Morale Welfare and Recreation) fund, Cianci said. Cianci himself is one of the veterans who has participated in the event since 2023.
“It was a great day,” said Toti. She added that she was excited to tell her dad she played golf at Wexford Golf Club.
Toti has relocated to South Carolina after serving for over 20 years in the Rhode Island National Guard. She relocated to be closer to her father, who is also a veteran, and to her daughter and granddaughter, who live in North Carolina.
“This was my first time, and the entire weekend was pretty awesome,” said Cusick, who was participating for the first time.
The Lowcountry Foundation for Wounded Military Heroes was founded in 2010 and has donated over $2.9 million to support wounded veterans, with a goal of reaching $3 million in donations by 2026.
The Wexford Club (Hilton Head) is one of the 3 events (Hampton Hall Club (Bluffton) and Old Field Club (Okatie) that raise funds for veterans with traumatic brain injuries, PTSD, and other service-related wounds, as well as scholarships for children of fallen special operations personnel.
These premier fundraising events feature 18-hole tournaments, a wounded hero golf clinic, and parachute jumps to support post-9/11 combat-wounded veterans.
After golfing 18 holes, the veteran attended a dinner at the Wexford Club.
The ITAM organization is fortunate to have a sponsor each year,” Cianci said, “and ITAM will continue to unite Rhode Island veterans with other Rhode Islanders in South Carolina, and brothers and sisters from all services at the Wexford Wounded Hero Golf Class.’
Only veterans who served together can understand the emotion they feel when reunited with a combat brother or sister with whom they served.
“So many memories, both good and bad, I am reminded of,” said one veteran,” however, the camaraderie I miss since leaving the military, these events fulfill one part of the military I miss; camaraderie with my brother and sisters.”
The veterans arrived on Hilton Head on Saturday. Before the event, the veterans played 9 holes of golf at the Legends on Paris Island.
Cianci stays at his host house on Hilton Head.
Wexford Golf Club, Hilton Head. Cianci presented his host, Marge, with an Italian American War Veterans of the US blanket.
“Marge and her husband spoil me,” said Cianci,” I consider Gary, Marge, and their dog Erin my South Carolina family.
These events are planned, organized, and executed by all volunteers.
Before departing South Carolina, Marge hosted all the Rhode islanders at her house for lunch. Moreover, before departing for the airport, Marge made all the veterans a bagged lunch, including homemade cookies she had made in the early morning hours.
If you are a veteran interested in attending future Low Country Foundation for Wounded Heroes, you can contact their organization.
In closing to all the volunteers from the Low Country Foundation for Wounded Military Heroes, THANK YOU. Your efforts and commitment to these events are making a difference not only in a veteran’s life, but the veteran’s family’s lives.
Master Sergeant Eddie Rose is preparing to eat his homemade cookie at the airport.
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Operation Standdown Rhode Island Events
Memorial Day Weekend May 22-25th
In 2016, Operation Stand Down RI launched the Boots on the Ground for Heroes Memorial which now displays over 7,000 combat boots adorned with flags and placards. Each boot represents a U.S. service member killed in action post 9-11 in the Global War on Terror.
The placard attached to each boot displays the name and photo of the fallen along with biographical information, military branch, rank and circumstances of death. The Memorial is updated yearly to incorporate additional U.S. service members killed in the ongoing Global War on Terror.
The boots, each adorned with a name placard and flag are organized alphabetically and by state and U.S. territories. This layout enables individuals with a personal connection to easily find a specific fallen hero’s boot. Often, family, friends, and comrades can be seen quietly paying their respects, sometimes leaving mementos. Since its inception, thousands of visitors from across the U.S. have attended the Boots on the Ground for Heroes display, held on Memorial Day Weekend and other times throughout the year.
For its first three years, the memorial was situated at Roger Williams Park in Providence. Since 2019, it has been displayed at Fort Adams State Park in Newport, one of the country’s oldest military posts, where we continue to set it up annually.
In 2023, we also had the honor of displaying the Boots on the Ground for Heroes Memorial at Gillette Stadium in Foxboro, MA, over Veterans Day Weekend. This year, we are again back at Fort Adams, continuing the tradition of honoring our heroes.
The hours are as follows:
Friday, May 22nd: 9AM – 7PM
Saturday, May 23rd: 9AM – 7PM
Sunday, May 24th: 9AM – 7PM
Monday, May 25th: 9AM – 6PM (Memorial Day)
Admission is free for all attendees.
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5K Road race-May 23, 2026 – Sign up!
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VA News
VA, non-profits team up to honor Veterans during ‘Memorial May’
The Department of Veterans Affairs’ National Cemetery Administration is working throughout the month of May with non-profit organizations Carry The Load, Travis Manion Foundation and Victory for Veterans to pay homage to Veterans interred in VA’s 157 National Cemeteries through a series of events, volunteer opportunities and shared stories leading up to Memorial Day.
The National Cemetery Administration expects more than 70,000 volunteers to participate in memorial activities in more than 100 VA national cemeteries throughout Memorial May.
“I welcome everyone across the country to join us at our national cemeteries in honoring the brave men and women who gave their lives protecting our freedom and our way of life,” said VA Under Secretary for Memorial Affairs Sam Brown. “As we mark the 250th anniversary of our nation’s founding, the sacrifices of these heroes remind us that liberty is never free and must be cherished and protected by every generation.”
This is the ninth consecutive year of collaboration with Carry the Load, fifth consecutive year with the Travis Manion Foundation and the third consecutive year with Victory for Veterans. Volunteers can learn more about events, remembering and honoring military service here: Volunteer Opportunities.
Carry The Load
Carry The Load volunteers will march in 75 locations across the country, including three VA national cemeteries (Tahoma, Los Angeles and Jefferson Barracks). CTL will also hold its signature May 24 Dallas Memorial March along the historic Katy Trail. Marchers carry signs, banners and American flags honoring fallen friends or family members. Those who want to participate should register in advance.
Travis Manion Foundation
This year’s Travis Manion Foundation’s The Honor Project will visit over 30 VA national cemeteries throughout Memorial Day weekend. Family and friends are invited to submit a Fallen Heroes request and a foundation volunteer will visit the gravesite, lay a hand-crafted commemorative token and pause for a moment of reflection. Find the list of participating cemeteries here.
Victory for Veterans
Volunteers with Victory for Veterans recognize Veterans by placing a flower on every Veteran’s grave at each VA cemetery they visit. Since 2021, the program has expanded operations to place flowers at 10 VA national cemeteries, two state Veterans cemeteries and one private cemetery. The group expects more than 400 volunteers this year and more than 27,000 flowers will be placed. Find the list of list of participating cemeteries here.
Veterans Legacy Memorial
VA encourages all Americans to use VA’s Veterans Legacy Memorial website to share memories and stories about Veterans who are no longer with us. VLM is the nation’s largest online memorial space dedicated to Veterans, with more than 10.5 million interactive pages where family, friends, and others can submit written tributes, photos, biographies, documents, and other information.
Over 5.75 million decedents, including 4.1 million Veterans from the Revolutionary War to the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, are interred in VA national cemeteries. NCA honors eligible Veterans, active-duty service members, and eligible family members with final resting places in national shrines and with lasting tributes that commemorate their service and sacrifice to our Nation.
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Rhode Island Veteran News
| House approves Chairman Azzinaro’s military bills |
| The House today approved two pieces of legislation from House Veterans’ Affairs Committee Chairman Samuel A. Azzinaro that continue his focus of supporting active-duty and retired service members.
The first bill (2026-H 7094) would establish the Rhode Island Orange Heart Medal to formally recognize Rhode Island veterans whose service exposed them to toxic herbicides, burn pits or other hazardous agents. “Members of the military who came back home with life-altering conditions after being exposed to harmful substances while defending our lives deserve additional respect and recognition. This medal will serve as that distinction and it will be a way to thank our service members who have sacrificed their health so that we all may live our lives free,” said Chairman Azzinaro (D-Dist. 37, Westerly). The bill now heads to the Senate for consideration, where Senate Special Legislation and Veterans Affairs Committee Chairman Walter S. Felag Jr. (D-Dist. 10, Warren, Bristol, Tiverton) has introduced the legislation (2026-S 2177). The second bill (2026-H 8125) would define “military-connected student” and permit military-connected students to enroll by remote registration upon presentation of military orders confirming that the parent or guardian shall be stationed in this state during the current or following school year. “Our active-duty service members already have enough on their minds without having to navigate the sometimes-complicated process of registering their children for school. This bill will provide a quick and easy way to ensure that our military children will be educated, allowing their parents to focus on their jobs defending our freedom,” said Chairman Azzinaro. The legislation now heads to the Senate for consideration, where Chairman Felag has also introduced the bill (2026-S 2756). |
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Local Events
Saturday, May 16, 6:30 to 10 p.m.; Pasta Dinner and Show to benefit Honor Flight, hosted by RI Blue Star Moms, American Legion Post 43, 662 West Shore Road, Warwick. Join Rhode Island Blue Star Moms for a night of food, fun and entertainment to benefit future Rhode Island Fire Chief Honor Flights out of Rhode Island T.F. Green International Airport. Tickets are $25 per person and tables of eight cost $200. For details or to buy tickets, contact the RI Blue Star Moms at ribluestarmoms@ gmail.com, or call Betty Leach at 401-426-9792.
Monday , May 18, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.; Pasta Dinner , hosted by Italian American War Veterans of the United States, Perella’s Ristorante, 311 Metacom Ave, Warren RI
Monday, May 25, 11:00 a.m., Balfour-Cole Post 64 American Legion, Memorial Day ceremony, Veterans Memorial, Deerfield Park, Smithfield. For details, Skip Sweeney at 401-484-0705 or balfour-cole64@hotmail. com.
Friday, June 12, noon to 3 p.m., Veteran Assistance Expo at Providence VA Medical Center 830 Chalkstone Ave, Providence. Get assistance enrolling in VA health care, applying for disability compensation, and accessing other benefits you’ve earned. From noon to 1 p.m., VA Providence will also host a New Veteran Orientation at the Providence VA Medical Center. This offers veterans a one-stop opportunity to learn about the full range of services available to them. Veterans will have the opportunity to enroll in VA health care and meet directly with Veterans Benefits Administration representatives.
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Purple Heart Monument Project Announced to Honor America’s Combat-Wounded Veterans
A new community initiative, the Purple Heart Monument Project, has been launched by the RI Commandery of the Military Order of Foreign Wars, to create a lasting tribute to the brave men and women who were wounded or killed in service to the United States.
The planned monument, to be placed in the RI Veterans’ Cemetery, will serve as a place of reflection, remembrance, and education—honoring recipients of the Purple Heart while helping future generations understand the true cost of freedom. Designed as a permanent and meaningful landmark, the monument will recognize the courage and sacrifice of service members across all branches and eras.
In a unique historical connection, the monument will also feature the Badge of Military Merit, established by General George Washington in 1782—the nation’s first military decoration and the predecessor to the Purple Heart. This inclusion highlights the enduring legacy of honoring sacrifice from the founding of the United States to the present day.
The legacy project is also being developed as part of the commemoration of America’s upcoming 250th anniversary, making it a timely and significant addition to the community’s efforts to celebrate the nation’s history and values.
Organizers are currently seeking community support, including financial contributions, sponsorships, and partnerships with local organizations to bring the monument to life. Opportunities are also available for educational programming and public engagement tied to the project.
“This monument is more than a structure—it is a symbol of gratitude and a commitment to never forget those who have given so much for our country,” said Ron Barnes, Commander of the Rhode Island Commandery of the Military Order of Foreign Wars.
Community members and organizations interested in supporting the Purple Heart Monument Project or learning more are encouraged to contact COL Ron Barnes, Co-chair, Purple Heart Monument Project, RI Commander. Military Order of Foreign Wars, 508-958-6781 [email protected]
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Information on the National Desert Shield and Storm Memorial
The Desert Shield and Desert Storm Memorial is a new national monument to be built at the National Mall in Washington D.C. The groundbreaking ceremony occurred on July 14, 2022.
Although we have been constructing the various elements of the memorial off-site for several years, on-site construction has begun. The dedication will be October 24, 2026.
National Desert Storm and Desert Shield War Memorial Act – Authorizes the National Desert Storm Memorial Association to establish a commemorative work on federal land in the District of Columbia to commemorate and honor those who, as members of the Armed Forces, served on active duty in support of Operation Desert Storm or Operation Desert Shield.
Construction of the Memorial is led by the National Desert Storm Memorial Association, a 501(c)3 organization in Washington, D.C. The association is led by a Board of Directors comprised of veterans who served during Operation Desert Storm. More information on monument go to https://www.ndswm.org/ and https://www.mynbc5.com/article/desert-storm-memorial-emily-bedard-rob-eccleston/69295603
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VETERANS VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
Italian American War Veterans of US (ITAM) Volunteer Opportunities:
Leave No Veteran Alone Program (https://italianamericanwarveteran.org) – Monday and Saturday, ITAM seeks volunteers to meet up at designated nursing homes to meet and socialize with veterans living at the facility. We schedule the facilities 30 to 60 days in advance. Volunteers socialize with veterans and TRY TO SPOIL them with refreshments we provide. Point of contact, Wendy Cianci, assistant (401) 677-9838.
Monthly Schedule for long term care and assisted living facilities needing volunteers:
Saturdays:
1st Saturday: South Kingstown Nursing and Rehab, 2115 S County Trail, West Greenwich, RI
3rd Saturday, Friendly Home, 303 Rhodes Ave, Woonsocket RI
Mondays:
2nd Monday – Greenwood Nursing and Rehab, 1139 Main Ave, Warwick RI
4th Monday– Chapel Hill Senior Living , 10 Old Diamond Hill Road, Cumberland RI Tuesdays
1st Tuesday Village House Nursing and Rehab, 70 Harrison Ave, Newport RI
2nd Tuesday– Elmwood Nursing Home and Rehab, 225 Elmwood Ave. Providence RI
Wednesdays
1st Wednesday– Eastgate Nursing and Rehab, 198 Waterman Ave, East Providence RI 2nd Wednesday -West Shore Health Center109 West Shore Road, Warwick RI Fridays
1st Friday-Benchmark at Forge Hill, 4 Forge Hill Road, Franklin MA
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Disabled American Veterans Volunteer Drivers Needed at VA Providence
Looking for a meaningful way to give back? Join VA Providence’s Volunteer Transportation Network (VTN) and help ensure Veterans get to their medical appointments with ease and dignity.
As a volunteer driver, you’ll play a vital role by picking up and dropping off Veterans using our DAV vans.
What We’re Looking For:
Active driver’s license & vehicle insurance
Clean driving record
Ability to pass a background check
COVID-19 vaccination
Details: © Standard hours: 6:00 AM to 1:00 PM (flexible options available) – Contact: Joseph Medeiros at (401) 457-3387 or Voluntary Services at (401) 457-3002 to learn more!
Let’s make the road smoother for those who’ve served-volunteer today!
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Environmental Health Registry Evaluation for Veterans
VA’s health registry evaluation is a free, voluntary medical assessment for Veterans who may have been exposed to certain environmental hazards during military service.
The evaluations alert Veterans to possible long-term health problems that may be related to exposure to specific environmental hazards during their military service.
VA has established several health registries to track and monitor the health of specific groups of Veterans.
The registry data helps VA understand and respond to these health problems more effectively.
You may be eligible to participate in one or more of these health registries:
- Agent Orange Registry
- Airborne Hazards and Open Burn Pit Registry
- Burn Pits Exposure
- Gulf War Registry(includes Operations Iraqi Freedom and New Dawn)
- Ionizing Radiation Registry
- Depleted Uranium Follow-Up Program
- Toxic Embedded Fragment Surveillance Center
- Duty assignment at Otis Air Force Base( Camp Edwards, MA)
- Duty assignment at Fort McClellan
- Duty assignment DMZ Korea
- Duty assignment included working on runways
Duty assignment Quonset/Davisville RI
- Served on a Navy ship and exposed to asbestos ( click, see if your ship is listed)
- Duty assignment as a mechanic and other occupational hazards(CARC Paint, Fuels, Degreaser)
On the VA website , a veteran can locate the point of contact by the state in which the veteran is enrolled in the VA Health Care system and request a FREE assessment.
Rhode Island
| Providence VA Medical Center 830 Chalkstone Avenue Providence, RI 02908 |
Tonya Gill (401) 273-7100 ext. 15862 [email protected] |
More information on Military Exposures & Your Health – Fall/Winter – Issue 17
Military Environmental Exposure Assessments
A Military Environmental Exposure Assessment (MEEA) is a clinical evaluation for Veterans concerned about military environmental exposures. If you’re enrolled in VA health care and have had toxic exposure screening, you are eligible for a MEEA.
How It Works:
Expert Evaluation: A specially trained VA clinician will review your exposure history and address any concerns.
Documentation: Your exposure history will be recorded in your electronic health record.
Follow-Up: You’ll receive medical guidance and follow-up recommendations via email or letter.
Scheduling a MEEA:
Contact your local Environmental Health Coordinator or the VET-HOME program.
No referral is needed, though your VA care team may recommend one.
Choose between in-person (may have limited times and copay) or telehealth (free and widely available).
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Evaluation Pathways for Military Environmental Exposures
VA provides multiple ways to evaluate and address your military environmental exposures:
Toxic Exposure Screening (TES):
Available every 5 years for Veterans enrolled in VA health care.
Takes about 5-10 minutes with a health care provider.
Starts a conversation about your exposures and connects you to appropriate resources.
Military Environmental Exposure Assessment (MEEA):
In-depth clinical evaluation to follow up on concerns identified during a TES.
Conducted by VA clinicians with specialized training.
Choose between in-person or telehealth appointments.
Environmental Health Registry Evaluation:
Free, voluntary medical assessments for Veterans exposed to environmental hazards during service.
Available to Veterans with specific service dates and locations.
Includes specific registries such as the Gulf War Registry and Ionizing Radiation Registry.
Helps VA understand and care for similar Veterans as a group.
Compensation and Pension Exam (C&P):
Assesses disabilities and determines eligibility for disability compensation.
Evaluates whether claimed medical conditions are connected to military service.
Conducted by VA medical professionals or private contractors.
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Free Help for Homeless Veterans
Veterans who are homeless or at risk of homelessness-and their family members, friends, and supporters-can make the call to or chat online with the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans, where trained counselors are ready to talk confidentially 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Who Can Call
- Veterans who are homeless or at risk of homelessness
- Family members, friends and supporters calling on behalf of Veterans
- VA Medical Centers and other VA facilities and staff
- Federal, state and local partners
- Community agencies and providers who serve Veterans who are homeless
Why Make the Call to 1-877-4AID VET (877-424-3838)
- It’s free and confidential
- You’ll get access to trained VA counselors
- It’s available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
- You’ll get information about VA homeless programs, health care and other services in your area
What Happens When Veterans Make the Call
- A trained VA staff member asks a few questions to find out what you need
- Then, you’re connected to the nearest VA staff person who can help
- What Happens When Others Make the Call
- Family members and non-VA providers receive information about available homeless programs and services
- They can keep their information confidential or leave contact information so staff can follow up
- VA’s Resources for Homeless and At-Risk Veterans
- VA offers a wide array of services to help homeless and at-risk Veterans.
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Free Rhode Island Hunting and Fishing Licenses for 100% Disabled Veterans:
A Veteran who has a 100% disability rating from the VA is eligible for free Rhode Island hunting and fishing licenses.
No cost licenses are available if you are:
- over 65 AND a Rhode Island resident
- a veteran with 100% disability status from the Department of Veterans Affairs
- a person with 100% total disability status from the Social Security Administration
To apply in person at DEM, please bring a photo ID and an ORIGINAL DOCUMENT OF THE FINAL DECISION(S). Office hours are 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. (directions)
To apply by mail, please complete an application and mail the application and a copy of your photo ID and the ORIGINAL DOCUMENT OF THE FINAL DECISION(S). Please allow two weeks for processing. The address to obtain your license in person or by mail is: DEM Licensing Office 235 Promenade Street, Room 360 Providence, RI 02908 (401) 222-3576
To purchase online, you will be required to certify that you have:
ORIGINAL DOCUMENT OF THE FINAL DECISION(S). You will also be required to enter the date the decision expires. The Department will audit compliance with the certification and may, at any time, request a copy of the current DOCUMENT OF THE FINAL DECISION(S). Failure to submit the documentation by the date requested may result in the suspension of your fishing and hunting license. Also, Rhode Island General Law 11-18-1 prohibits giving false documents to an agent, employee, or public official. The penalty is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $1,000 or imprisonment up to one year.
Rhode Island Hunting and Fishing Benefits for Service Members and Veterans: Rhode Island offers several hunting and fishing benefits to Service members and Veterans. A short description of each is listed below. Applicants are required to show documentation proving eligibility when they apply:
- Active-Duty Service members – Military ID
- Veterans – DD214
- Disabled Veterans – VA Disability Certification Letter ( Contact VA office)
Applicants can apply online at Rhode Island Outdoors, in person at the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management, Office of Boating Registration and Licenses in Providence (Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.), at an Authorized In–Person Sales Agent, or they can mail applications to: Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management 235 Promenade Street, Room 360″ ³ ¨Providence, RI 02908 – Phone: 401-222-3576
Learn more about FREE Rhode Island Hunting , Fishing, State Parks, and Golf Benefits for Service Members and Veterans
https://dem.ri.gov/about–us/dem–offices/boating–registration–licenses/rhodeislandoutdoors#:~:text=If%20you%20qualify%20for%20a,that%20issued%20the%2 0disability%20decision.
Free Rhode Island State Park Passes for 100% Disabled Veterans:
Rhode Island offers the State Park Disability Pass for use at any state-owned recreational facility to disabled Veterans who have a 100% service-connected disability rating from the VA.
The State Park Disability Pass authorizes free admission and parking but does not exempt the following:
- Licensing fees
- Camping fees
- Picnic table fees
- Specialized facility use fees
- Use of equestrian areas
- Performing art centers
- Game fields fees
- Mule shed fees
If the disabled Veteran cannot drive, the vehicle transporting the Veteran will not be charged.
Veterans must apply in person at the Rhode Island State Parks and Recreation Headquarters and are required to show official documentation (dated within the past year) from the VA that states they have a 100% service-connected disability.
Rhode Island State Parks and Recreation Headquarters 1100 Tower Hill, Road North Kingstown, RI 02852 Phone: 401-6676200, Email: [email protected]
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VETERAN RESOURCES & ongoing groups
Below are all the groups the Providence Vet Center is currently offering.†¯ As this list changes, I will provide updates. Please send me any questions that you may have, thank you for your time!
***All Vet Center Groups require that the Veteran be enrolled with the Vet Center prior to attending. To check eligibility or for questions, please contact the Vet Center at (401) 739-0167 or reach out to our Veteran Outreach Program Specialist (VOPS)
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Group (PTSD) – 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month from 2:00 – 3:30 p.m. (Group is only active September through May)
Global War on Terrorism (GWOT) and Vietnam Veterans PTSD Group – 2nd†¯and 4th – Wednesday of the month from 9:30 – 11:00 a.m.
Vietnam Veteran PTSD Group – 1st†¯and 3rd Monday of the month from 10:30 – 12:00 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Art Expression Group – Every Thursday from 9:00 – 12:00 p.m.
Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF)/Operation Iraqi Freedom
(OIF)/Operation New Dawn (OND) Group – Every Wednesday from 11:00 – 12:00 p.m.
Stress Management – Every Thursday from 9:00 – 10:00 a.m.
Low Impact Walking Group†¯– Every Tuesday from 9:00 – 10:00 a.m.
Guitar 4 Veterans – Every Wednesday from 7:00-8:30 p.m.
Monday Mindfulness Group – Every Monday from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Yoga Group – Every Friday from 12:00 – 1:00 p.m.
Moral Injury Group – Every Friday from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Modern Warrior Support Group– 1stâ€and 3rd Monday of the month from 2:30 – 4:00 pm.
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Discounts for Veterans
Services
No Problem Plumbing and Heating LLC 15% military discount, ask for Ron Gaynor, (401) 568-6666. Veterans must provide proof of eligibility with a VA Card, VA ID Card, or RI State license with veteran identification.
Restaurants
Applebee’s – Military Discount. With more than 2,000 locations, Applebee’s is a family grill restaurant. Applebee’s gives 10% off for active duty and veteran. Last verified 07/31/2022.
Badger’s Pub – 530 Broadway, Pawtucket is now offering a free meal to veterans every first Friday of the month at the bar. Veterans can partake in a variety of activities during the week, including bingo on Mondays, darts on Tuesdays, high-lo jack on Wednesdays, indoor cornhole on Thursdays, and Karaoke on Fridays and Saturdays, Badger said. The bar also hosts poker on Saturdays and Sundays.
Denny’s– Hartford Ave, Johnston offers 10% discount for veterans and active duty. Denny’s is a table service diner-style restaurant chain.†¯Last verified 07/31/2022.
Outback Steakhouse– 10% Discount to active and veterans. Last verified 07/28/2021
99 Restaurant & Pub – The 99 Restaurant & Pub offers a 10% military discount to members of Veterans Advantage. Available at select locations only. Bring valid military ID
Retailers
Advance Auto Parts– 10% for Active Duty, Veterans, and families. Last verified 07/28/2021
Bass Pro Shops – Offers a 5% discount to active-duty military, reservists, and National Guard. Sign up and verify your status online or bring your military ID when you shop at your nearest Bass Pro store (source).
BJs Wholesale – Reduced membership fee. BJ’s offers all military personnel over 25% off their Membership. Last verified 07/28/2021
Lowes – Enroll in the Lowe’s Military Discount Program to activate your 10% discount – “Our way of saying Thank Youâ€to our active duty, retired and military veterans and their spouses with a 10% discount on eligible items. Verification of your military status is fast and easy through our partner GameStop†¯- is offering a 10% in-store military discount on all pre-owned products, collectibles, and select new products. Available to current and former military members who bring any valid proof of service or when they verify through †¯ID.me
Home Depot – Offers a 10% off military discount on regularly priced merchandise for in-store purchases for active duty, retired military, and reservists at participating locations. Customers are required to show a valid government-issued military ID card to redeem this offer.
Kohls – 15% discount offers for active military, veterans, retirees, and their immediate family members a 15% discount on purchases made on Mondays, in store only. In order to receive the military discount, eligible customers must present proper identification along with any tender type.
Jiffy Lube – HONORING VETERANS ALL DAY EVERY DAY! – We didn’t want to wait for Veteran’s Day to express our appreciation and gratitude for your service. That’s why every Team Car Care owned and operated Jiffy Lube ® service center is offering our BEST discount of 10% OFF as a “Thank Youâ€to the men and women of our Armed Forces for their service to our country. *Disclaimer*- I.D. required. No coupon is required. Excludes batteries and brakes, alignment, and diagnostic services. Available only at 3 select locations: Tioque Ave, Coventry RI – Bald Hill Road, Warwick RI – Park Ave, Cranston RI
Michaels – offers a 15% off military discount on the entire in-store purchase including sale items for active duty, retired military, guard, reservists, veterans, and family members. How to get: 1. Create an account. Log in to Michaels Rewards. 2. Get verified. Provide your military information to get verified, instantly. 3. Go shopping! To use your discount online and in store, just sign into your account or provide your Michaels Rewards phone number at checkout.
O’Reilly Auto Parts – 10% discount on in store items for Active Duty, Veterans and families. Last verified 3/4/21.
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If you are a retailer and or a veteran aware of a business not listed above, please forward to: [email protected]: the business’s name, location, and military and veteran discount offered.
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If you have an event, meeting, other pertinent veteran information, or email questions or help needed, contact the Italian American War Veteran Service Officer, John A Cianci, [email protected], ITAM Office 1-(401)6779VET(9838)
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To read all columns in this series go to: https://2×8.ea2.myftpupload.com/john–acianci/
John A. Cianci is a Veteran Service Officer. Retired, U.S. Army MSgt., Persian Gulf War and Iraq War combat theater.
Cianci, a combat disabled Veteran, served in Desert Shield/Storm and Operation Iraqi Freedom. His awards include Bronze Star, Combat Action Badge, Good Conduct, and others.
Cianci belongs to numerous veterans organizations – Italian American War Veterans, American Legion, Veterans of Foreign War, and many more organizations. He is an active volunteer assisting veterans to navigate federal and state benefits they have earned. He is Department of Rhode Island Department Commander Italian American War Veterans and Veteran Service Officer.
He is a graduate of Roger Williams University (BS Finance), UCONN business school* (Entrepreneur Bootcamp for Veterans), Solar Energy International Residential, Commercial and Battery Based Photovoltaic Systems certificate programs, numerous certificates from the Department of Defense renewable energy programs, including graduate of the Solar Ready Vets Program.
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If you are a retailer and or a veteran aware of a business not listed above, please forward to: [email protected]; the business name, location, and military and veteran discount offered.
If you have an event, meeting, other pertinent veteran information, or email questions or help needed, contact the Italian American War Veteran Service Officer, John A Cianci, [email protected], ITAM Office (401) 677-9VET (9838)
To read all columns in this series go to: https://2×8.ea2.myftpupload.com/john-a-cianci/