RI Veterans: Did you know? 06.11.25 (Veterans Day, freebies, events) – John A. Cianci

by John A. Cianci, contributing writer, veterans issues

Question from RINEWSTODAY John Cianci

Where can a veteran go on Veterans Day and order a FREE Prime Rib Deal?

The answer is in this week’s veteran article.

The first 25 readers who find the answer and email veteran contributor John A. Cianci will be entitled to a remake of his or her dogtags, with the chain. Email answer to itamri4vets@gmail.com. All winners will receive a reply with the form to fill out for a set of dog tags.

To all my brothers and sisters who have served in the Armed Forces, Happy Veterans Day. Enjoy the day, and THANK YOU for your service.

VETTIP: The Italian American War Veterans of the US will be at Johnston Memorial Park with the Veteran Resource tent, and all veterans who stop by will receive free, remade dog tags.

If you know a business thanking a Veteran on Veterans Day, please forward this information to RINEWSTODAY, itamri4vets@gmail.com, an updated Veteran Freebie and Discount will be reprinted on Veterans Day.

FIRST ANNUAL VETERANS DAY FAMILY FESTIVAL – A BRAND-NEW Community Tradition Starts NOW!

This Tuesday, November 11th, we’re turning Johnston Memorial Park into the biggest celebration of the season and YOU’RE invited!

Tuesday, November 11th
10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Johnston Memorial Park

OPENING CEREMONY (10:00–10:30 AM)

This isn’t just any ceremony it’s a powerful, heartfelt tribute to those who serve our country and our community.

Live performance by the Johnston High School Band
Special appearance by local senators & state representatives
Honoring our heroes with the Johnston Medal of Honor of Service
Recognizing 3 firefighters + 3 police officers for extraordinary service

This is the moment we come together as one town, one community, one family.

THE FAMILY FESTIVAL (10:30 AM – 2:00 PM)

Bring your kids, your friends, your neighbors there’s something for EVERYONE!

25+ amazing vendors: jewelry, clothing, crafts, baked goods & more
Face painter from 10 AM–12 PM
Bouncy House ALL DAY – Live DJ bringing the energy
Hair tinsel by Jessica Hair Haven (small cost, totally worth it!)

Beautiful fall day surrounded by your community
Perfect photo spots for families, couples, and kids
Support local small businesses AND honor our veterans

This is exactly the kind of event that makes a town feel alive.

LET’S SHOW UP FOR OUR VETERANS & OUR COMMUNITY

We want the park packed loud, proud, and full of community spirit.
Bring your family. Bring your friends. Bring everyone.

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2025 VETERANS DAY RESTAURANT DISCOUNTS:

THE FOLLOWING IS A LIST OF VETERANS DAY DISCOUNTS AT RESTAURANTS FOR 2025. THIS LIST WILL BE UPDATED REGULARLY AS NEW DISCOUNTS COME IN.

VETERANS DAY FREE MEALS , COFFEE AND DONUTS

TO HONOR MEMBERS OF THE MILITARY, THESE RESTAURANTS ARE OFFERING VETERANS FREE MEALS OR BEVERAGES ON OR AROUND VETERANS DAY, NOVEMBER 11.

Starbucks 

On Veterans Day, November 11, 2025, Starbucks will offer a free tall brewed coffee to veterans, active-duty service members, and military spouses at participating U.S. stores. Free Coffee: Veterans and military affiliated individuals can enjoy a free tall (12 fl. oz) brewed coffee, either hot or iced. This offer is valid for café and drive-thru orders only, and it excludes cold brew, nitro, and any beverage customizations. Each customer is limited to one free coffee per visit.

Eligibility: The offer extends to all veterans, active duty service members, and military spouses, including those from the National Guard, Reserves, Coast Guard, Air Force, Space Force, and Marine Corps. No military ID is required; simply inform the barista of your service when ordering.

Honey Dew Donuts Veterans Day Offer:

On Tuesday, November 11, Honey Dew is proudly thanking those brave individuals who’ve served our country by offering a free coffee to all veterans—no purchase necessary (one per person).

As a New England brand with deep community roots, Honey Dew continues its annual tradition of giving back to those who’ve given so much. It’s a small gesture of gratitude that’s brewed with heart.

 

OLIVE GARDEN

On Veterans Day 2025, Olive Garden will offer a free meal to veterans and active duty military members from a special menu, available on November 11.

Free Meal Offer – Date: The promotion is valid on November 11, 2025, in honor of Veterans Day.

Eligibility: Veterans and active duty military personnel can enjoy a complimentary entrée from a specially crafted menu. Proof of service, such as a military ID or veterans ID, is required to redeem the offer.

Applebee’s 

Veteran and active-duty military receive a free meal from a select menu on November 11 at participating locations. Dine-in only.

All Veterans and Active Duty Military who visit an Applebee’s restaurant in the United States on Tuesday, November 11 can receive a free full-size entrée and a $5 Bounce Back Card towards their next meal at Applebee’s – Applebee’s is proud to honor those who serve and have served our country. All Active Duty Military, Veterans, Reserves, and National Guard members who dine in-restaurant will receive a complimentary full-size entrée from an exclusive Veterans Day menu as a heartfelt thank-you for their service.*

This year marks the 18th consecutive year Applebee’s has celebrated Veterans Day with this tradition. Since the program began, Applebee’s has served more than 12.3 million free meals to America’s service members and veterans.

Applebee’s 2025 Veterans Day Menu includes a choice of seven popular entrées including:

6 oz. Top Sirloin

Classic Bacon Cheeseburger

Chicken Tenders Platter

Double Crunch Shrimp

Fiesta Lime Chicken®

Oriental Chicken Salad

Three-Cheese Chicken Penne

“There’s no greater energy than at an Applebee’s on Veterans Day. It’s a day where you can not only see, but feel the neighborhood coming together,” said John Peyton, Applebee’s president & Dine Brands CEO. “One of the busiest days of the year, we’re proud to welcome our nation’s heroes and thank them for their service and sacrifice with a complimentary entrée as a small token of our appreciation.”

Additionally, on November 11 when dining in-restaurant, Applebee’s will honor these special guests with a $5 Bounce Back Card to redeem for dine-in, To Go, or delivery within a three-week redemption window.**

To find your local restaurant to dine in, visit Applebees.com/restaurants. For more exclusive deals and specials,guests can join Club Applebee’s to be a part of the neighborhood and receive a welcome offer!

*Available on November 11, 2025, at participating Applebee’s only. Dine-in only. Not valid with other coupons or discounts. Beverage and gratuity not included. U.S. Veterans and Active-Duty Military simply show proof of military service. Proof of service includes U.S. Uniformed Services ID Card, U.S. Uniformed Services Retired ID Card, current Leave and Earnings Statement (LES), Veterans organization card (i.e., American Legion, VFW), photograph of yourself in uniform, wearing uniform, DD214 and citation or commendation. Limit 1 meal per U.S. Veteran or Active-Duty Military.

**One card per qualifying U.S. Veteran or Active Duty Military. Redeemable between 11/12/25 – 11/30/25. Coupon must be presented and relinquished at time of redemption. Valid at participating Applebee’s® OR online via applebees.com or the Applebee’s mobile app only. Limit one card per party, per table, per visit. Excludes tax, alcohol, delivery fees, gift cards and gratuity. Not valid with any other offers, coupons, or discounts. Not redeemable for cash, and no change will be given. Void if lost, stolen, photographed, scanned, reproduced or altered in any way.

BJ’S RESTAURANT AND BREWHOUSE – On November 11, active-duty and retired military dining in at BJ’s with a valid military ID will receive a free Chocolate Chunk Pizookie. And from November 12 through December 31, guests with a valid military ID who dine in and purchase an entrée will receive a free Appetizer Bounce Back to enjoy on a future visit.

BOB EVANS — Veterans and active-duty military get a free meal from a select menu on November 11. Dine in

CHILI’S — Veterans and active-duty military members get a free meal on November 11 at all participating restaurants. Available in-restaurant only for select items. Military ID required to redeem offer.

CIRCLE K — ON NOVEMBER 11, VETERANS GET ONE FREE MEDIUM HOT OR ICED COFFEE. THE ONE-DAY-ONLY OFFER IS AVAILABLE AT PARTICIPATING U.S. LOCATIONS, AND CUSTOMERS CAN REDEEM THEIRS BY SHOWING A VALID MILITARY ID AT PURCHASE.

Cracker Barrel — On November 11, veterans and active-duty service members with valid ID get a free Sunrise Pancake Special.

Denny’s — Veterans and active-duty military personnel receive a free Original Grand Slam on November 11 from 5am to 12pm. Must show valid Military ID or DD214.

Golden Corral — Golden Corral is hosting their Military Appreciation Night on November 11 from 4pm to close. This includes a free “thank you” meal when dining in.

Olive Garden — On November 11, Olive Garden will offer each veteran and current member of the military who dines in a free entrée from a special menu. Simply show proof of military service.

Outback Steakhouse — Outback is offering a free Aussie 3-Course Meal with valid military ID when dining in on November 10 and 11 (select entrées only).

Ninety Nine Restaurant and Pub — On November 11, from opening until 4 p.m., veterans and active-duty military members who present a valid military ID will receive a free lunch entrée from the Veterans Day Menu with adult entrée purchase.

Red Robin – Veterans and active-duty military guests can enjoy a complimentary Red’s Big Tavern Burger and Bottomless Side when dining in at participating restaurants on November 11.

Ruby Tuesday — Ruby Tuesday is offering a free Garden Bar Entrée or Free Garden Bar Add-On on November 11, to veterans (retired and active-duty military with valid ID).

Sizzler — On November 11, participating Sizzler locations will be offering a free lunch to any active-duty military or veteran until 4:00pm. Choose between a free Half Dozen Crispy Shrimp, Malibu Chicken, or 6oz Tri-Tip Steak entree–with a free beverage included. All Sizzler locations–excluding those in Utah, Idaho, and Puerto Rico–will be participating in this promotion.

Smokey Bones — Smokey Bones, is offering a free entree to all veterans and active-duty military: Bacon Cheeseburger, Pulled Pork Sandwich, or Chicken Tender Platter with one regular side on November 11 when dining in with a valid military ID. It cannot be combined with the military discount.

Starbucks — Starbucks is honoring those who have served with a free tall (12-ounce) brewed coffee (hot or iced) for veterans, military service members and military spouses at participating U.S. stores and licensed locations on November 11.

Texas Roadhouse On Veterans Day, November 11, 2025, Texas Roadhouse will honor veterans and active-duty military members with free meal vouchers from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. This event is part of Texas Roadhouse’s annual tradition to thank veterans for their service, and they have been doing this for over 20 years.

Eligibility: Veterans and active duty military personnel can receive a free meal voucher by presenting a valid military ID or proof of service at participating Texas Roadhouse locations.

Meal Details: The voucher can be redeemed for one of ten entrees, including options like a 6 oz. USDA Choice Sirloin, Grilled BBQ Chicken, and Pulled Pork Dinner, along with two sides and a non-alcoholic beverage.

Redemption Period: The vouchers are valid for dine-in or carry out and can be redeemed until May 30, 2026, allowing flexibility for veterans to enjoy their meal at a later date if they cannot visit on Veterans Day.

99 Restaurant – VETERANS DAY SPECIALS – Veterans and Active Duty Military are invited to be our guest for lunch from opening – 4pm onTuesday, 11/11/25. Purchase any entrée and you’ll receive a free lunch from our Veterans Day Menu:  All American Cheese Burger* A ½ pound 100% American Angus beef burger flame broiled to order with American cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickles and onions. Dripping with our signature sauce. Served on our brioche bun with french fries or coleslaw. 14.99 Grilled Teriyaki Chicken A tender, marinated chicken breast flame broiled with a teriyaki glaze and topped with grilled pineapple. Served with teriyaki sauce and two sides. 14.99 Chopped Sirloin* Juicy ground sirloin seasoned and flame broiled, smothered with red wine sauce and sautéed mushrooms. Served with two sides. 14.99 Topped with peppers and onions. Add 2.49 Chicken & Sausage Al Forno A guest favorite! Penne pasta tossed with creamy tomato sauce, tender roasted chicken, sweet Italian sausage and parmesan cheese. Topped with mozzarella and provolone cheeses and oven baked. Served with warm Rustic Bread. 14.99 Crispy Twin Catch Hand-breaded shrimp and cod both golden-fried until crispy. Served with tartar sauce, french fries and coleslaw. 14.99 Roasted Turkey Dinner Tender, slow-roasted turkey breast and cornbread stuffing smothered with a rich turkey gravy. Served with Russet mashed potatoes, warm honey-glazed biscuit and one side. 14.99 Cranberry sauce upon request.

Red Oak Hospitality – This Veterans Day, we proudly invite all Veterans and active-duty service members to join us for a complimentary meal, snack or spin — our way of saying thank you for your courage, commitment, and sacrifice. All locations.

The Old Grist Mill Tavern – A complimentary meal from our featured Veterans Day selections, including our Fresh Works Salad Bar! Homestyle Turkey Dinner – 10oz Slow-Roasted Prime Rib – Classic Meatloaf – Seafood Platter. If you’re craving something different, our servers will gladly help you find the perfect dish!

Canned Heat Craft Beer – Enjoy a complimentary pizza

The Tipsy Toboggan – A complimentary meal of your choice from our full menu (Excludes 16, 22 & 44 ounce Prime Rib)

Gathering Grounds Cafés – Your choice of a complimentary coffee, ice cream, or pastry.

Fall River Carousel – A complimentary carousel ride for every Veteran – Simply present your military ID or proof of service, and allow us to serve you!

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SNAP Relief/Thanksgiving for Veterans and Spouses of Deceased Veterans

The Italian American War Veterans of the United States (ITAM) is offering local supermarket gift cards equal to up to half of a veteran’s or a deceased veteran’s spouse’s monthly SNAP benefit. For example, if a veteran is receiving $250 monthly SNAP benefit, a $125 local market gift card will be issued to the veteran. During the application process, the veteran will select the local market where he or she shops.

The fund has a $5,000 matching donation.

Veterans or the spouses of deceased veterans will request verification that the applicant is a veteran. After the program verification, the applicant will have to verify that he or she is receiving the SNAP benefits he or she is entitled to.

How does ITAM verify you are a veteran?

The following documents will be accepted: VA Health Care card, a RI License, or Real ID with designation of veteran on card, membership card to Italian American War veterans of US, DAV, VFW, AMVET, American Legion, etc. The veteran can email redacted proof of eligibility, itamri4vets@gmail.com or text a picture to (401) 677-9838.

“We encourage all veterans receiving SNAP to apply,” said John A Cianci, Veteran Service Officer/Advocate for ITAM,” If we have needs beyond the $10,000 we are planning to raise, our organization will send out members to local markets ( with approval by market management), to stand outside the locations seeking customers to donate gift cards.”

All interested veterans will have to provide documentations of current SNAP benefit, along with proof he or she is a veteran.

Interested In Donating?

ITAM has a GoFundme site, SNAP For Veteran, link https://gofund.me/0bcb47990

Donations can also be made by going to ITAM website, https://italianamericanwarveteran.org/

Market gift cards can also be purchased and mail to ITAM, 18 Winchester Ave, North Smithfield RI 02896

How do I apply for the ITAM SNAP Grant?

Call the ITAM office, (401) 677-9838. One of the volunteers will answer the call or call you back to discuss the best way for the veteran to apply and ensure his or her personal information is communicated and protected ( all documents of verification must redact ( blackened out) veteran’s have social security and date of birth).

How to verify SNAP benefits?

You can verify your SNAP benefit in Rhode Island by checking the online Customer Portal at healthyrhode.ri.gov, reviewing your award letter, or calling the DHS Call Center at (401) 462-5300 (for Option 2, you can use your Social Security Number or case number with your date of birth). You can also find information on your EBT card’s associated account via the Customer Portal or by calling the number on the back of the card.

Online

Customer Portal: Visit healthyrhode.ri.gov to log in and view case information, including your benefit amount, eligibility, and status updates.

What documents are required for verification of veteran status or the spouse of a deceased veteran?

RI Drivers or Real ID with veteran designation

VA Health Card

VA ID Card

The veteran’s registration, Purple Heart, Bronze Star, Silver Star, or disabled veteran plate.

DD 214 or other discharge paperwork.

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More help for our Veterans who may be SNAP dependent

If you are in need of food assistance as all food banks will be stressed until the SNAP issue is resolved, Operation Stand Down RI’s Food Pantry.

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For all Rhode Islanders, as produced by Governor’s office:

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Operation Holiday Cheer

Operation Holiday Cheer sends care packages to Rhode Island service members who are away from home during the holidays. The event will take place the weekend of Nov. 15-16 at the Schofield National Guard Armory, 705 New London Ave., Cranston. Donor drop-off will be on the 15th between 8:30 and 11 a.m. Volunteers will package and ship the boxes on the 16th. Anyone who wants to donate but is unable to drop off items on the 15th can call 401-222-2371 to coordinate an alternate drop-off plan.

To volunteer for package prep on Sunday, call Grace Sneesby at 401-222-1445 or email Grace.Sneesby@ltgov.ri.gov. Snacks such as granola bars, gum, nuts, trail mix and peanut butter are sought. Other items, such as cards/card games and long cotton socks, are welcome. Postal restrictions prevent the shipment of larger, heavier items such as canned food, glass containers, board games and sports equipment.

To make a monetary donation, make your check payable to American Red Cross and mail it to Office of the Lieutenant Governor, c/o Grace Sneesby, State House Room 116, 82 Smith St., Providence, RI 02903. Important: Please write Operation Holiday Cheer on the memo line.

If you have a loved one serving in the military and would like them to receive a package, submit the service member’s name, rank, unit and mailing address to ltgov@ltgov.ri.gov by Nov. 9. Include your own name, email address and phone number.

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EVENTS CALENDAR

Saturday, Nov. 8, 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., RI Model Rocketry Association invites veterans and serving military to participate in a free rocket launch at the URI Peckham Farm Field in West Kingston. Rockets are provided, or you can can bring a rocket you built yourself. Just show your veterans or military ID. Veterans will have access to the low-power pads (A-D motors). To register, email Lucy DiMase at lucy.dimase@va.gov.

Sunday, November 9, 2025 – Aesthetic Dentistry of Wickford – free dentistry for VETERANS:

November 9, 2025, Monday, – Annual Veteran Breakfast, 8 AM to 11 AM, St Joesph’s Veterans Association, 99 Louise Street, Woonsocket RI

Monday, Nov. 10, 8:30 to 11 a.m. – U.S. Rep. Seth Magaziner’s 2nd Annual Veterans Appreciation Breakfast & Awards Ceremony will take place at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, 801 Greenwich Ave., Warwick. The event honors those who have served and recognizes their invaluable contributions to their communities. To RSVP, please visit magaziner.house.gov.

 

Tuesday, Nov. 11, 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Veterans Day Ceremony with lunch, hosted by Bristol Community College Fall River Campus, 777 Elsbree St. The event is free and open to all, rain or shine. A brief speaking program at 11 a.m. will be followed by a buffet-style lunch. VA Providence specialists will be available to answer questions about health care and eligibility. For details, call Denny Cosmo at 774-357-2227 or email Denny.Cosmo@BristolCC.edu.

Tuesday, Nov. 11, 4:30 to 8 p.m., Veterans Appreciation Dinner sponsored by United HealthCare at the Plastic Palace, the heated outdoor pavilion in the upper back parking lot of Lindy’s Tavern, 98 School St., North Smithfield. Cocktails and appetizers will precede a 5 p.m. USO-style show by the Fancie Senior Follies. Dinner will follow at 6 p.m. Veterans attend free; guests are $15 each. Seating is limited, so call Kathy at 401-636-1031 to reserve.

Saturday, November 15, 6-10pm – Starlit Soiree:

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November 22, 2025 – Henri’s Heroes – Woonsocket, RI:

Car Giveaway for Veterans in Need. Henri’s Auto Repair will give away cars to deserving veterans on Nov. 17. Burrillville-based NEHOV (New Englanders Helping our Veterans) is coordinating applications through its website, nehov.org. Fill out a short application, including proof of veteran or military status, and briefly describe why you should receive a free car. Applications close midnight Friday, Nov. 14. WOON radio (AM 1240, FM 99.5) will announce winners between 8 and 9 a.m. Monday, Nov. 17. Vehicles will be presented Saturday, Nov. 22, from noon to 2 p.m. at Fairmount American Legion Post 85, 870 River St., Woonsocket. For info, call NEHOV at 401-649-2548 or Henri’s at 401-762-2325 .

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November 22, 2025 – RI Aviation Hall of Fame Induction Dinner – Nine New Honorees to be Recognized

Click here for more details & to buy tickets.

The Annual RI Aviation Hall of Fame Induction Dinner will recognize its 23^rd group of honorees

Guest of Honor

Lt. Col. Enoch “Woody” Woodhouse, USAF (Ret), is one of the last surviving Tuskegee Airmen, the famed Black combat flying unit from WWII. He was a finance officer with the 332nd Fighter Group. Woodhouse later graduated from Yale and Boston University School of Law and became a strong advocate for veterans. He will be 99 in January.

The 2025 Honorees:

Raymond W. Barnes (1915-1992) – Barnes was a radioman/gunner whose B-17 was shot down over Germany in November, 1943. Seven crew members perished and three survived as POWs, including Barnes, who lost an eye during the fight. He was liberated in June 1945. His son Ron will go to Germany in 2026 to dedicate a memorial at the crash site.

SGT Edwin Lee Bowers, Jr., USMC (1936-   ) – Bowers, who served in Marine Aviation as an enlisted navigator from 1956 to 1961, is the recipient of this year’s President’s Award, for his contribution is to the furtherance of the Hall of Fame itself. He has been an active and hard-working volunteer on our ship projects for more than 25 years, and has helped with the RIAHOF honors event since its inception in 2003.

CW4 Michael J. Carpenter, USA (Ret.) (1944-   ) – Carpenter earned seven Air Medals flying light observation aircraft in Vietnam. He joined the RI Army National Guard in 1969, serving for the next 35 years. By retirement he had flown some 3700 flight hours, 800 of which were combat hours. His lifetime of service to Army Aviation resulted in the award of the order of St. Michael.

Robert G. Danis (1936-2009) – Danis soloed on his 16th birthday and went on to accrue more than 20,000 flying hours. He flew with the Civil Air Patrol and as a private charter pilot before spending 30 years with USAir. After retirement he launched Lincoln Flight Center in Smithfield. Bob was designated Pilot of the Year by the Ri Pilots Association, and received the Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award from the FAA.

Staff Sergeant Anthony J De Fusco (1923-1944) MIA, China – By 1944 DeFusco was a radio operator / gunner on a B-25 based in China. On August 23, 1944, his plane took off on a combat mission; they were not seen nor heard from again. He was one of six sons of Pasquale and Eileen De Fusco; five of whom served on active duty during WWII (of whom three were Army Air Forces veterans.). Anthony was the only one who did not return.

CW4 Alton L. Maurais, USA (Ret.) (1937-   ) – Maurais flew helicopter gunships in Vietnam in 1966-67. He accrued 440 combat hours flying with an innovative aerial rocket artillery unit. Having served as a mechanic after enlisting in 1956, he reenlisted in order to fly. After Vietnam he worked as a commercial helicopter pilot and joined the RI Army National Guard. When he retired in 1997 he had accrued more than 11,000 flight hours, combining military and commercial time.

Eugene F. McSweeney (1921-2015) – Navy fighter pilot McSweeney was sworn in at exercises during the Army-Chicago Bears football game at Boston on September 20, 1942. He flew 79 Hellcat sorties off the carrier USS Bataan in 1945, accruing 305 combat hours. He earned the Distinguished Flying Cross and five Air Medals. At war’s end his final missions involved dropping food and supplies to POW camps in Japan.

RADM Darryl L. Walker USN (1963-    ) – Admiral Walker, a Naval Aviator, is President of U.S. Naval War College. Walker enlisted in the Air Force in 1985 as an Air Traffic Controller and earned a BS from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in 1990. He was commissioned through Naval Aviation Officer Candidate School and was designated a Naval Flight Officer in 1992. He has accrued some 3900 flight hours and 696 carrier-arrested landings. He earned his MA from the Naval War College in 2002.

LTCOL Herbert “Herb” Woodcock, USAF (Ret.) (1928-2023) – Woodcock joined the Air Force and was commissioned as a navigator. He deployed to Okinawa during the Korean War; his units supported B-29 bombing missions. In January 1954 he survived a jet crash into the South China Sea. In Vietnam he was assigned to the 12th Air Commando Squadron, flying dangerous defoliation missions. He earned the Silver Star, two Distinguished Flying Crosses and eight Air Medals, as well as the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry.

Click here for more details & to buy tickets.

Cocktail Reception @ 5:30 pm

Cash bar & light hors d’oeuvres

Dinner @ 6:30 pm with Ceremony to follow

Buffet dinner (meat and vegetarian options), coffee / tea & dessert

Dress Code

Cocktail/Semi-Formal Attire; Black Tie Optional

Military Dress Blues; Mess Dress Optional

Tickets:

$65 per person

$480 – Table of 8

$600 – Table of 10

We are returning to The Scottish Rite Center, 2115 Broad St, Cranston, RI 02905 – (at the entrance to Rhodes on the Pawtuxet)

Prefer to mail in a check? – Please make payable to RIAHOF, and send along with your name, email, phone, and guest’s names (if applicable), to: RIAHOF, PO Box 28581, Providence, RI 02908 – You will receive a confirmation via email (or phone if email not provided).

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Rhode Island Aviation Hall of Fame (RIAHOF) is a volunteer driven non-profit group dedicated to identifying, honoring and perpetuating the memory of those individuals who have contributed to Rhode Island’s rich aviation history.

Over more than two decades, we have inducted nearly 100 individuals and one entire family (the Allen family of balloonists/aeronauts). We have also given special recognition awards to 40 individuals along with the four WWII WASP (Women Air Service Pilots) from RI and the 20 or so Tuskegee Airmen hailing from this state.

Few people know just how rich and varied our aviation history is, and just how many wonderfully skilled and talented contributors to the aerial age have been born in Rhode Island, were educated here, lived here for a portion of their lives or performed some great aviation-related act or service here. Help us perpetuate this message!

Click here for more details & to buy tickets. – Can’t attend? Please consider making a tax-deductible contribution today!

Please note: Inductees (or their family representative) will be provided a separate coupon code for their complimentary tickets. Please contact us for more information.

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January 17, 2026 35^th  Desert Storm Reunion, Tri-City Elks, West Shore Road, Warwick, RI – 3:00 p.m. to 4:30 pm Veteran Social. All Desert Shield/Storm veterans invited.  5:00 p.m. Memorial service . More information and tickets go to https://35desertstorm.org

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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 You”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 You”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: itamri4vets@gmail.com; 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, itamri4vets@gmail.com, ITAM Office (401) 677-9VET (9838)

To read all columns in this series go to:    https://rinewstoday.com/john-a-cianci/

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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.