RI Veterans: Did you know? 08.01.26 (Desert Shield/Storm, Local Events, Resources) – John A. Cianci

by John A. Cianci, contributing writer, veterans issues

Wanted : Desert Shield / Storm Veterans

 On January 17, 2026, Desert Shield/Storm Veterans from New England and several other states will gather at Tri-City Elks, West Shore Road , Warwick, RI, on the 35th Anniversary of the commencement of the combat phase to extract Iraqi troops from Kuwait. The aerial and naval operation continued for five weeks.

This was followed by a ground offensive assault on February 24, which lasted 100 hours before .

“We have been planning the reunion for almost a year, “ said William Gearon, a Desert Shield/Storm veteran who served with the 119^th Military Police Company during the Gulf War.

The reunion is for all veterans who served during Operation Desert Shield/Storm.

 

“I’m looking forward to seeing my brothers and sisters who I served with during Operation Desert Shield/Storm,” said Gearon. Interested veterans can go to the group’s website, https://35desertstorm.org/

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Facts on Desert Shield/Storm

Operation Desert Shield was a military operation that began in August 1990 in response to Iraq’s invasion of Kuwait. It was the first phase of the Gulf War, also known as Operation Desert Shield/Storm.

That operation to oust the Iraqis is also known as the Persian Gulf War. Operation Desert Shield/Storm came about after Iraqi President Saddam Hussein refused to withdraw his forces from Kuwait after Iraqi forces invaded and annexed Kuwait 5 months ago.

The U.S.-led 35-nation coalition pummeled the Iraqi forces, forcing Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein to sign a ceasefire on Feb. 28, 1991.

Nearly 700,000 men and women served in the Persian Gulf War during Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm in the early 1990s, which included hundreds of Rhode Islanders.

The Rhode Island National Guard deployed four units for Operation Desert Shield/Storm: 143rd Airlift Wing, out of Quonset Point, 118^th Military Police Battalion, and 119th Military Police Company out of Warwick, RI, and 115^th Military Police out of Pawtucket, RI.

Other Rhode Island units activated and deployed: 443d Civil Affairs Company, 6^th Transport Company, United States Marine Company Reserve, United States Navy Reserve, S. B. Roberts FFG-58.

None of the Rhode Island units suffered any casualties. However, an Alabama unit under the command and control of the 118^th Military Police Battalion had 2 killed in action casualties. Unique to Operation Desert Shield/Storm was the pattern of the uniforms issued for Operation Desert Shield/Storm, aka, “chocolate chip uniform”.

January 17, 2026 will mark the 35^th anniversary of the start of combat operations known as Operation Desert Storm.

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Information on Gulf War Illnesses:

On Oct 1, 2025, Gulf War Illness (GWI) was formally recognized as a medical condition, marked by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) assigning it a specific diagnostic code (ICD-10-CM) effective October 1, 2025, a crucial step for validating the chronic, multi-system symptoms experienced by veterans of the 1990-91 Gulf War, including fatigue, pain, and cognitive issues, and helping providers better diagnose and treat it. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) also recognizes certain illnesses as service-related for disability compensation.

The new diagnostic code — which became effective Oct. 1 — is part of a standardized system doctors use to identify diseases and medical conditions. The National Center for Health Statistics at CDC is responsible for modifications to those codes. “Veterans have been told it was in their heads. The medical establishment cannot do this anymore with this [medical diagnostic] code. This is an official illness,” said Ronald Brown, an Army veteran and toxic wounds specialist. The lack of a formal medical diagnosis for Gulf War illness until now meant doctors and researchers were unable to easily identify and treat veterans with the condition “inside and outside the VA health care system,” according to Veterans for Common Sense, a nonprofit advocacy group. The medically unexplained symptoms include chronic fatigue, breathing problems, joint pain, skin rashes, digestive disorders, and memory loss that may worsen over time, according to the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Desert Shield/Storm veterans and widow/widowers needing assistance filing for VA benefits or state and local veterans should contact Veterans Service Officer/advocate, John A Cianci of the Italian American War Veterans of the United States. All assistance is FREE.

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Information on the National Desert Shield and Storm Memorial-Dedication late 2026

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 constructing the various elements of the memorial off-site has been taking place for several years, on-site construction has begun. We are projecting the Dedication Ceremony for late 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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UPCOMING EVENTS

January 14, 2026, Wednesday, FREE Veteran Appreciation Dinner, 5:00 p.m to 6:30pm Toast & Tap, 45 Quaker Lane, West Warwick RI . All Veterans and one guest ( all children are invited) for a FREE monthly Veteran Appreciation Dinner (2nd Wednesday of every month) prepared and sponsored by veterans of the Italian American War Veterans of the US—Guinness Shepherd’s Pie, salad, and desserts

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

January 19, 2026 . Monday FREE Lunch( $20 credit)  12p – 4p Texas Roadhouse, Warwick RI. Limited space; must make reservations. Email Missy at 27marketing@texasroadhouse.com to reserve a spot.

February  2, 2026 Monday 9:00-11:00 a.m. ROMA, 310 Atwells Ave, Providence, RI The Italian American War Veterans of the United States hosts its monthly veteran coffee social at ROMA, always the first Monday of the month. ITAM Veteran service officer/advocate will be available to assist any veteran or family member needing assistance with VA, federal, state, local, or private benefits. All assistance is FREE of charge. All veterans are invited.

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Veteran Burial Resource Guide

RI Veteran Memorial Cemetery, Exeter, RI

Changes to federal laws have made veterans who were previously ineligible for the RI Veteran Cemetery now eligible. For example, previous members of the RI Guard and/or reserve are ineligible, unless they met active duty requirements and/or served in a conflict.

However, the Burial Equity for Guards and Reserves Act, which made National Guard and Reserve members eligible for burial in state veterans’ cemeteries regardless of their active-duty status, was enacted on March 15, 2022. This legislation ensured that Guardsmen and Reservists meeting certain criteria, such as not having a dishonorable discharge, would be eligible for burial in state veterans’ cemeteries, even if they didn’t meet the previous, more restrictive, eligibility requirements 

How to apply?

https://vets.ri.gov/veterans-cemetery-interment-application-online

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Veteran Resource Guide

Retirees

Army Newsletter Army publishes a semi-annual FREE newsletter to mail to all Army retirees, Army Echoes. To subscribe: Call DFAS at (800) 321-1080 or online sign-up, you can update your information or sign up, https://www.dfas.mil/RetiredMilitary/manage/changeofaddress/

Past editions of the Army Echoes newsletter are available for free download – https://www.soldierforlife.army.mil/Army-Retirement/Post-Retirement/Army-Echoes-Newsletter

Army 2025 Retired Soldier Handbook – https://soldierforlife.army.mil/documents/army%20retirement/post%20retirement/Retired%20Soldier%20Handbook.pdf

The purpose of the U.S. Army Retired Soldier Handbook is to provide current and updated information for Retired Soldiers and their families, about the benefits and entitlements they’ve earned through their years of faithful service.

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FAQ Medicare For Veterans

Do I have to sign up for VA Healthcare if I have VA Healthcare?

Reasons to sign up ( if you are not receiving VA disability or less than 30% VA rated)

1. Unless you are 100% and or receiving VA disability to cover dental, the VA health care program does not include dental coverage.
2. Unless you receiving 70 % or more, VA Healthcare does not include paying for long term care.
3. If you are hospitalized and need rehabilitation, VA has limited options of in state facilities, and if you choose a local facility to make it convenient for your family to visit you while rehabbing, you could have to pay $250 – $500 a day during rehab.

VETTIP I assisted a veteran trying to get reimburse by the VA for over $20, 000, as his only option for rehabilitation after a emergency hospital visit was either in West Haven Ct. or New Jersey. VA refused to reimburse, since he was offered options

I have VA Health Care, why should I sign up for Medicare A and B?

Monthly VA Disability Compensation

Frequently Asked Questions Providence Medical Hospital

Q – How do I get an appointment with a primary provider at the VA Providence Medical Center  on Chalkstone Ave, Providence?

A – VA Providence Medical Center

VETTIP A Veteran must be enrolled/registered with the VA before services are provided.

For FREE assistance to enroll in VA Health care system, contact the Italian American War Veterans of US, Veteran Service Officer, (401)677-9838 or email itamri4vets@gmail.com, or website, italianamericanwarveteransofus.org

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Q – I was unhappy with service at the Providence VA?

Veteran options if unhappy with the VA service and or recommendations:

Denied a clinical procedure: What options does a veteran have if denied a clinical procedure at a VA Hospital?

Step 1: Contact your primary care provider and tell them that the referral was denied.

VETTIP  I recommend you contact your provider through MyHealthVA, https://www.myhealth.va.gov/mhv-portal-web/home This provides documentation for additional evidence the veteran is denied a service their VA primary provider recommended additional medical services.

Step 2:  Initiate a clinical appeal.

If you disagree with a VA medical treatment decision, you can initiate a Clinical Appeal, a process where a higher-level review of the decision is requested, potentially involving the facility’s chief medical officer and other experts.

Here’s a more detailed explanation:

• What is a Clinical Appeal?
  • A clinical appeal is a formal, written request for a review of a medical treatment decision made by your VA care team.
  • It’s used when you disagree with a decision about your care or treatment.
• How to Initiate a Clinical Appeal?
  • Contact the patient advocate at your VA health care facility.
  • The patient advocate will guide you through the process and help you file a written appeal.
  • The advocate will work with the facility’s chief medical officer and other experts to review the medical treatment decision.
• What Happens During a Clinical Appeal?
  • The appeal is reviewed by a higher-level medical professional or team.
  • They will consider the original decision and any new information or evidence you provide.
  • The goal is to resolve the clinical dispute.
• Second-Level Appeal (VISN):
  • If the facility-level appeal is not resolved to your satisfaction, you can submit a second-level appeal to the Veterans Integrated Service Network (VISN) Patient Advocate Coordinator (VPAC).
  • The VPAC will conduct a final review of the case.
• Oral Appeals:
  • If you prefer to discuss your appeal orally, the patient advocate or VPAC will assist you in putting your appeal in writing.
• Other Decision Review Options
  • If you disagree with a VA benefit or claim decision, you can choose from 3 decision review options (Supplemental Claim, Higher-Level Review, or Board Appeal) to continue your case.
• Board of Veterans’ Appeals

If you disagree with a Board decision, you have 2 options: If you have new and relevant evidence that supports your case, you can file a Supplemental Claim, or you can appeal to the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Cla within 120 days from the date of your decision.

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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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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 an

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
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: dem.riparks@dem.ri.gov

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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 – 1st 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 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’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, itamri4vets@gmail.com, ITAM Office 1-(401)6779VET(9838)  

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To read all columns in this series go to: https://rinewstoday.com/john–acianci/   

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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.