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RI Veterans: Did you know? 17.07.25 (Disability Q&A, Events, Resources) – John A. Cianci
by John A. Cianci, contributing writer, veterans issues
Questions from one of our readers
Q: Help! I am rated 50% for a disability, 30% for a 2nd disability, and only receiving 70% VA disability compensation. Why am I not getting 80% monthly disability compensation (since 50 plus 30 is 80)?
A: VA math is not your normal math when figuring out disability compensation. Simply put, in normal math, you add 50 and 30 and get 80. The VA considers you a full 100 percent whole before disability rating is considered.
Think of yourself as a whole pie. The first and highest rating you have is a 50% rating. VA math would give you 50% disability compensation. In the eyes of the VA, you are now 50% disabled and 50 percent whole (5 0% of the pie left)
Next, let’s pretend you are granted a 30% disability for another disability. You would then calculate 30 percent of the 50 percent that remains “whole,” which equals 15 percent; then, when added to your previous 50 percent, you now add up to 65% percent disabled and 35% the VA now considers you to be 65 percent whole. Since the VA rounds values to the nearest 10% to get disability rating, the 65% is rounded up to 70%.
The VA has a calculator you can use to figure out VA math.
Now let’s pretend you have a third disability rating of 30%. Let’s recall, you are now rated 70% with 30% remaining whole. And now must do VA math for 50+30+30, which now gives you an 80% disability rating.
What?
I received another disability of 30% and only had a 10% increase in the monthly VA disability combination.
Keep picturing that pie.
Therefore, at this point, your combined disability rating is 65 percent disabled and 35 percent whole left of your pie. You have one last rateable disability for 30 percent. VA would calculate 30 percent of the 3 percent that is still whole (3.6 percent) and add it to your disability, thereby resulting in a combined disability rating of 76 percent.
Vet Tip: The VA does not pay partial or halves; they round up or down, converting your combined rating to the nearest degree divisible by 10. Therefore, in this pie scenario, you would be paid a 70 percent combined VA disability rating.
Math to bet rating of 50% , 30%, and 30%:
50% (1st rating) of a whole pie gives me 50% rating
30 % (2nd rating) of the remaining whole pie-50% of who pie equals 15 percent additional rating. Now add 50% rating plus 15% percent (15% x 50 first rating), you are rated at 70% because the VA rounded up to 65 to 70 percent.
30% (3rd rating) of the remaining 35 whole pie equals 10.5 additional rating. Add 10.5 to the previous 65, which equals 75.5. The VA will round up, which is 80% of VA disability compensation.
Another example is from webpage https://www.howvadisabilityratingswork.com
In conclusion, very confusing.
The best bet if you have multiple ratings is to use the VA calculator on VA.gov.
https://www.va.gov/disability/about-disability-ratings/
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From the VA News website – Rhode Island Veterans In The News:
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VA Providence is honored to recognize three remarkable Rhode Island Veterans who exemplify the strength, sacrifice and spirit of the Greatest Generation.
Henry Polichetti—oldest man in the U.S.
Born July 3, 1915, and now the oldest living man in the United States, Navy Veteran Henry Polichetti served as an instructor at several top-secret naval radio schools during WWII. Known as “the sailor who never went to sea,” he worked to help the Navy track German U-boats and trained naval radio operators during a pivotal moment in American history. Mr. Polichetti still lives in Cranston, Rhode Island, and recently celebrated this rare milestone with family, friends and fellow Veterans.
Hats off to Caster Salemi
Army Veteran Caster Salemi, 103, was honored by the Boston Red Sox as part of their “Hats Off to Heroes” program. A proud member of the Italian American War Veterans of the U.S., Salemi waved to a cheering Fenway Park crowd in celebration of his service during WWII and his Flag Day birthday.
Cheers to 100 Years, George Leo Silva
On June 29, Navy and Coast Guard Veteran George Leo Silva celebrated his 100th birthday at St. Bernard’s Catholic Church in North Kingstown, Rhode Island, surrounded by hundreds of guests. Silva, who served aboard the USS Atlanta during WWII and later braved Hurricane Carol while stationed in a New England lighthouse, marked the occasion by exchanging challenge coins with Salemi in a touching moment of Veteran brotherhood.
These living legends remind us that service doesn’t end with the uniform and that every birthday they celebrate is a victory for all of us.
Special thanks to Rhode Island News Today columnist and Veteran advocate John A. Cianci for continuing to highlight the stories of Rhode Island’s Veterans with the reverence and respect they deserve.
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From VA News website – VA processes more than 2M disability claims in record time
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs announced today that it processed more than 2 million disability benefits claims for Veterans in fiscal year 2025, faster than ever before. VA achieved this milestone more than a month faster than the all-time record reached in FY 2024. At this pace, VA will surpass the previous record number of completed disability claims by more than 14% this year. VA has already awarded more than $120 billion in compensation and pension benefits to Veterans and survivors in FY 2025.
Since President Trump took office, VA has reduced the inventory of backlogged disability claims by more than 74,000. Veterans are also getting their claims processed more quickly — the average wait time for a Veteran’s claim to be processed fell from 141.5 days on Jan. 20, 2025, to 131.8 days on June 21, 2025.
“VA has reduced the claims backlog and has processed these claims faster than ever for a simple reason: we’re focused on getting results for Veterans,” VA Secretary Doug Collins. “We are just getting started in our mission to help Veterans, families, caregivers and survivors get the care and benefits they’ve earned.”
VA encourages all Veterans to visit VA.gov to learn more and apply for the care and benefits they deserve.
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VA Providence Medical FAQ Telephone Numbers
Pharmacy
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DEADLINE FOR CLOTHING ALLOWANCE AUGUST 1 2025
Did you know you might be eligible for an annual clothing allowance of almost $1000 from the VA?
Eligible Veterans Must Apply Before August 1, 2025 for Clothing Allowance
VA Clothing Allowance
The VA Clothing Allowance is an annual benefit that helps veterans cover the cost of replacing clothing damaged by prosthetic devices, orthopedic devices, or skin medications related to a service-connected disability. The allowance, currently at $999.51 per year, is adjusted periodically to reflect the cost of living.
Eligibility:
- Veterans must have a service-connected disability for which they require prosthetic, orthopedic, or skin medication.
- The device or medication must cause damage to clothing, such as wear and tear or irreparable staining.
- The VA form 10-8678 must be submitted by August 1st of the current year to receive the benefit for that year.
Coverage:
- The allowance covers items like shirts, pants, skirts, and other similar garments that are permanently damaged.
- It does not cover items like shoes, hats, scarves, underwear, or socks.
Application:
- Complete VA Form 10-8678, Application for Annual Clothing Allowance., https://www.va.gov/find-forms/about-form-10-8678/
- Submit the form to the VA by August 1st.
- The form can be submitted online, by mail, by fax, or in person at a VA medical center.
Payment:
- The allowance is typically paid between September and October.
- Veterans can receive multiple payments if they qualify based on multiple devices or medications.
Important Considerations:
- The benefit is intended to help veterans maintain an acceptable level of attire.
- The VA may adjust the amount of the allowance periodically to reflect inflation.
The VA releases clothing allowance payments between September 1 and October 31 for those who have qualified by August 1. To receive an annual payment, applications must be submitted by August 1 of the relevant year.
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VETERANS EVENTS
July 30, 2025 Wednesday (always last Wed. of month) , Rosario Club, 17 Rosario Drive, Providence RI, 500-700 pm. Italian American War Veterans of US/Department of Rhode Island monthly membership dinner, 5:00 to 7:00 pm. For more information, contact John (401) 677-9838, or via email . NEW MEMBER DRIVE. Free meal and set of dog tags for all interested veterans looking to join. Limited space, email me to secure space for yourself and guest. And all children are also invited with guests. itamri4vets@gmail.com
August 1, 2025, Friday (always the first Friday), Medicine Horse, Silva Spirit Farm – 1600 Eagleville Road, Tiverton RI, “Fall in Friday” for active duty, veterans, and first responders. No appointment, drop in from 10:00 to 12:00. Refreshments include homemade cookies. For more information, (401) 640-7506, https://www.facebook.com/SilvaSpiritFarm
Aug 1, 2025, Badgers Pub, 530 Broadway, Pawtucket, RI, First Friday of every month, Veterans eat for FREE. Veteran-owned, Iraqi War veteran Jason Badger. Veterans can order anything off the menu free of charge, said Badger’s owner, Jason Badger, including the bar’s New York System hot wieners and their fish and chips. Along with the free meals, 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.
August 2, 2025, Saturday, Christ Church 57 Main Street, Swansea, MA 8:00 to 10:00, FREE Breakfast (First Saturday of every month), Veteran and one guest
August 4 2025, Monday, 9:00 to 11:00, Federal Hill Veteran Coffee House sponsored by the Italian-American War Veterans of the US. Free to all veterans and guests. Refreshments include ROMA’s Italian Toast, pastries, calzones, and pizza. For more information, contact ITAM, at (401) 677-9838 or email itamri4vets@gmail.com
August 13, 2025 ( always the 2nd Wednesday of the month), toast n’ tap, 4:30 – 6;30, toast n’ tap, 45 Quaker Lane, W. Warwick, RI. The Italian American War Veterans of the US will provide a FREE Dinner for all veterans and one guest.
August 16, 2025 , Saturday – Annual Calling All Veterans
September 6, 2025 Dive 4 The Prize
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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 subsribe:
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
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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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 Golf, Goddard Park Golf Course Fee Exemption for Totally Disabled Veterans:
Rhode Island resident Veterans who have a 100% permanent and total, service-connected disability rating from the VA are exempt from paying any fees to play golf at the Goddard Park Golf Course. For more information call the Clubhouse at Goddard Memorial State Park through the 3rd Saturday in November at 884-9834 or year-round at Division Headquarters at 401-6676200.
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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: 401-667-6200. 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 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 1-(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.