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RI Veterans: Did you know? 18.12.25 (Benefits, VA News, healthcare, Jobs, Events) – John A. Cianci
by John A. Cianci, veterans writer
NEW: President Trump announced last night that all 1,450,000 military serving will receive a war dividend before Christmas. How much? $1,776. In recognition of 1776, our nation’s anniversary.
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Survivor Benefits From A Deceased Veteran Collecting Military Retirement Military
We start off with questions from one of our readers:
Q: My husband was collecting military retirement and recently passed away. What do I do? Am I entitled to his military retirement pay? Carol, Smithfield
A: So sorry for your loss, Carol. Here’s the information you will need:
Step 1
When a military retiree spouse passes, the surviving spouse needs to notify the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS)
Options to Report Death to DFAS
Call: Call 1-800-321-1080 during business hours to inform DFAS of the death of a military retiree. When you call, please be prepared to provide:
- Retiree’s Full Name
- Retiree’s Social Security Number
- Date of Death
Online
You may report the death of a military retiree online 24/7 using our askDFAS online Notification of Death form.
Before using the tool, you will need to have the following information available for the retiree:
- Full Name
- Social Security Number
- Date of Death
- Cause of Death (Natural, Homicide, Pending, or Other)
- Marital Status
Additionally, if you are the retiree’s spouse you will also need to provide your date of marriage.Anyone using the tool must also complete all additional fields with a name, relationship, and contact information for the death notification to be processed.
Step 2
The spouse of a deceased veteran should complete DD Form 2656-7.https://www.esd.whs.mil/Portals/54/Documents/DD/forms/dd/dd2656-7.pdf
VETTIP: Even if told by phone and or anyone, the deceased spouse should complete the form and mail it. Let the VA respond in writing you are not eligible. Why? The riles are always changing, moreover, many law changes go retroactive, as long as the spouse applied and denied.
VETTIP: I recommend you attach a copy of the death certificate and marriage certificate to the DD Form 2656-7.
Step 3: Mail the DD Form 2656-7, with a copy of the death certificate and marriage certificate to:
DFAS, U.S. Military Annuitant Pay, 8899 E 56th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46249-1300
Q2 Am I entitled to the deceased spouse’s retirement pay?
I always advise applying to DFAS and letting DFAS respond in writing whether you are eligible for survivor benefits.
How do I apply?
Step 1
Complete SF 1174 Claim for Unpaid Compensation of Deceased Member of the Uniformed Service, https://www.gsa.gov/system/files/SF1174-92.pdf
This form, along with the retiree’s death certificate indicating the cause and/or manner of death is required for us to calculate and pay the retiree’s final pay.
Step 2
- Mail to:
For Annuitant Pay (Survivors):
Defense Finance and Accounting Service
U.S. Military Annuitant Pay
8899 E. 56th Street
Indianapolis, IN 46249-1200
More information and checklist on SF 1174 go to https://www.dfas.mil/RetiredMilitary/survivors/1174RetireeAOP/
If assistance is needed, the Italian American War Veterans of the United States provides FREE assistance on completing the forms. For assistance, call (401) 677-9838 or email veteran Service officer, itamri4vets@gmail.com
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VA Press Releases
VA to improve health care choice and quality for Veterans with new community care contracts
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs released a request for proposals (RFP) for new community care contracts that will improve health care choice and quality for Veterans over the next decade.
View the RFP here.
VA’s community care program enables Veterans to access health care from non-VA medical providers at the department’s expense. Community care has been an integral part of caring for Veterans since the World War II era. In 2018, President Trump enshrined this right for Veterans by signing the bipartisan MISSION Act. Today, about 40% of all VA care is provided through community care.
In 2018, VA signed contracts with health plans to serve as third-party administrators and manage VA’s community care program. Many of these contracts are set to expire in 2026, and a new round of contracts is needed to ensure Veterans have continued access to the community care program.
The RFP VA announced today will lead to new community care contracts that will improve health care choice and quality for Veterans over the next decade in the following ways:
- More Choices for Veterans – The new indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity (IDIQ) contract structure will provide more choices by allowing multiple national and regional health plans to compete to serve Veterans. Selected health plans will provide care and benefits uniquely adapted to Veterans and their communities.
- Improved Quality of Care for Veterans – The contracts will require health plans to adhere to broad industry standards of care used by all other major health care systems. This will ensure Veterans get care that has been shown to directly address their medical conditions and maximize their health and wellness.
- Improved VA Oversight of Community Care – The contracts will provide VA with the data, technology and systems to manage Veterans’ care in real-time, drive innovation, and collaborate with the selected health plans to ensure that Veterans receive the highest quality health care.
- Contract Flexibility – The new IDIQ contract structure allows VA to issue multiple, competitive task orders over the life of the contract in order to adjust health plans, regions, contract requirements, and deliverables and ensure that health plans are empowered and accountable. Contractors that do not meet VA requirements can be off-ramped and replaced by other IDIQ health plans to ensure continuity of services and no disruption of care to Veterans or VA operations.
“VA has learned a lot about community care over the years, and we are putting that knowledge to use to help Veterans with the next generation of community care contracts,” said VA Secretary Doug Collins. “This RFP will result in contracts that dramatically improve our ability to provide quality health care while ensuring Veterans can choose the care that’s best for them.”
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VA launches Veterans Health Administration reorganization
The Department of Veterans Affairs today announced its intent to reorganize the management structure of the Veterans Health Administration (VHA), with the goals of improving health care for Veterans, empowering local hospital directors, eliminating duplicative layers of bureaucracy and ensuring consistent application of VA policies across all department medical facilities.
VA has briefed Congress of its intent and will provide official congressional notification tomorrow. In early 2026, the department will announce precise organizational and personnel changes, which will take place over the next 18-24 months.
Multiple independent reviews from VA’s Inspector General, the Government Accountability Office and others have underscored the need for reorganizing VHA. Those reviews highlighted governance weaknesses and how the organization’s management structure is rife with middle managers who have overlapping responsibilities, slowing decision making and creating unnecessary burdens to serving Veterans.
VHA’s reorganization will incorporate this feedback by reducing duplicative management layers and putting the right people in the right places without reducing staff. As part of the reorganization:
- VHA Central Office will have responsibility for setting policy goals and conducting financial management, oversight and compliance.
- Operations Centers and Veterans Integrated Service Networks (VISNs) will take policy direction from VHA’s Central Office to develop operational, quality and performance standards that will guide VA’s more than 1,300 medical facilities.
- These changes will result in clearer guidance and more decision-making authority for VA Health Care Systems, which deliver health care through more than 170 medical centers and nearly 1,200 outpatient sites of care.
- Staffing and operations at VA medical centers and clinics will not be changing as part of this reorganization.
VHA’s reorganization will better position the organization to focus on care delivery — not bureaucracy — and result in more defined roles and faster decision-making for all VHA employees.
This initiative is not a reduction in force or an attempt to reduce staffing levels at VHA, and VA does not expect a significant change in overall staff levels once it’s complete.
“The current VHA leadership structure is riddled with redundancies that slow decision making, sow confusion and create competing priorities. In other words, when everyone’s in charge of everything, no one’s in charge of anything,” said VA Secretary Doug Collins. “Under a reorganized VHA, policymakers will set policy, regional leaders will focus on implementing those policies, and clinical leaders will focus on what they do best: taking great care of Veterans.”
Background on Why VHA Needs Reorganization
“Recent internal and external reviews of Veterans Health Administration (VHA) operations have identified deficiencies in its organizational structure and recommended changes that would require significant restructuring to address, including eliminating and consolidating program offices and reducing VHA central office staff.” – Government Accountability Office, September 2016
“VHA does not have an effective oversight process for ensuring and assessing the progress of VISNs and VAMCs in meeting VHA’s strategic goals and objectives.” – Government Accountability Office, Oct. 21, 2016
“This review highlights that the VISN organizational structure lacked clearly defined roles and standardized responsibilities and did not ensure accountability…” – VA Office of Inspector General, March 31, 2025
“…weaknesses in VA’s governance and oversight have affected many aspects of program performance and operations.” – VA Office of Inspector General, Semiannual Report to Congress, April 1-Sept. 30, 2023
“The OIG concludes that governance, with respect to staffing models, could be improved.” – VA Office of Inspector General, Aug. 19, 2021
Regional Networks Need Improved Oversight and Clearly Defined Roles and Responsibilities – Government Accountability Office, June 19, 2019
“…the Commission strongly recommends a new [VHA] governance model…” – Commission on Care, June 30, 2016
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VA Providence Medical
FAQ Telephone Numbers
Pharmacy
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Upcoming Veteran Events
Dec 23, 2025, 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. ET – Gear Up for What’s Next: Veteran Hiring Event with Coworx, Providence VA Medical, Building 39-Computer Lab, 830 Chalkstine Ave, Providence RI. Veterans seeking additional information prior to the event may contact Rosemarie Aponte at 401-273-7100, ext. 15018
VA Providence is hosting a Veteran-focused hiring event in partnership with Coworx Staffing Services, offering Veterans the opportunity to explore immediate and long-term employment options across a variety of industries. This event is open to all Veterans interested in learning more about available positions and next steps toward employment.
Coworx representatives will be on-site to discuss current openings, review qualifications, and answer questions about the application process. Positions being recruited for include machine operator and machine maintenance roles, warehouse associates, and assemblers—providing opportunities for Veterans with a wide range of skills and experience levels.
January 17, 2026, 35th 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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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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FAQ Veteran Questions On VA Health Care, VA Disability, Long Term/Assisted Living Care/ Discounts/ State Benefits
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
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)
- Unless you are 100% and or receiving VA disability to cover dental, the VA health care program does not include dental coverage.
- Unless you receiving 70 % or more, VA Healthcare does not include paying for long term care.
- 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
Telephone Number Directory
Make An Appointment:
Annual Physical
*Primary care call center:
Direct: 401-273-7100 or 401-457-3336
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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: I would recommend that you 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 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: 401-6676200 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.