RI Veterans: An emotional moment between generations who keep us free – John A. Cianci

by John A. Cianci, contributing writer

The group of Independence Day celebrating veterans departed the Rhode Island Veterans Home with a coordinated police escort, coordinated by members of the VFW Post 237, Bristol RI, to watch the Bristol 4th of July Parade.

Here’s Retired General Richard Valent in his M15S1 1/4 ton Jeep:

Upon arrival the veterans were quickly off-loaded and arranged in the VIP area especially set up for the veterans by the Bristol VFW.

The veterans from the home received VIP treatment from the veterans home staff, VFW volunteers, and members of the Italian American War Veterans of US. Throughout the event the veterans enjoyed the free food from VFW Post 237, which included hamburgers, hotdogs, stuffies, meatball and chorizo sandwiches.

Parade marchers included Senator Jack Reed who acknowledged the veterans when passing by. 

A special moment – not a dry eye – and it wasn’t from the rain

The iconic parade passed right by a small grassy hill where the Rhode Island veterans Home tent, complete with banners was set up and veterans huddled under its protection to watch groups that were from Rhode Island and all over the US. The military contingent drew special interest, of course.

When the U.S. Air Force members marched down the street in the parade, the marchers began to notice the veterans group. As they approached, the entire platoon broke away from marching formation, and rushed the hill to thank the veterans sitting in the Rhode Island Veterans Home section. Overwhelmed with the greeting, many of the veterans had watery eyes, including myself, so touched we all were by an emotional moment that words cannot describe. Other parade goers were also touched by the moment – young soldiers, the next generation of veterans, honoring and thanking the Vietnam, Korea, and World War II veterans for their service. It was almost like a movie scene with veterans present and veterans future exchanging knowing looks, and honor for one another on this day the country celebrates its Independence – due, very much to those who serve.

Before the skies opened up again, the parade ended about 12:45 p.m.

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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.