RI Veterans: Did you know? 21.11.24 (Medicare decision, Thanksgiving, events…) – John A. Cianci

by John A. Cianci, contributing writer on veterans issues

Question from one of our readers:

Q: I have VA health coverage; do I need Medicare? John, North Smithfield RI

A: In my opinion and based on assisting veterans navigating thru the VA health care system and assisting Veterans to resolve private health care coverage, and other veteran benefits, veterans are entitled to, and in my opinion, YES, I recommend you sign up for Medicare.

Why get Medicare when you are eligible for other healthcare as a veteran?

I have been privy to veterans without Medicare and other options for outside VA medical services, having challenges to access VA health care, to include Veterans who have used and have been 100% satisfied with VA health care for years.

For example, a veteran who was on a vacation needed non-emergency health care (flu-like symptoms with a high fever) . No VA facility was close by, and the veteran had limited transportation. He used an ambulance service to get to a medical facility; service was recommended by the cruise ship he was on, due to medical staff’s concern about his high fever and being lightheaded. Moreover, no other option for transportation was available to him.

The bill for ambulance, urgent care facility and prescription required for treatment was almost $4000 ($1800 for ambulance).

The VA denied his request to pay the $4000, even thou he called the VA with 72 hour notice, and sought congressional assistance to resolve the unpaid bill.  The VA reason for denial: Veteran was less than 30% being compensated and the services were not related to his current service approved disabilities.

Another veteran had a hospital bill of over $20,000 at a non-VA facility the VA denied paying because the injury was a result of a car accident, which the driver who caused the accident did not have enough insurance to cover the medical bills. VA reason: Private insurance responsible for paying for services caused by a motor vehicle accident (veteran was a passenger, and both coverages already exceed dollar limit of liability).

Both examples listed above would have been covered by Medicare if the veteran had at the time of medical service provided.

One important reason to get Medicare, you could be traveling and not have access and or have to travel hours to get to the closet VA medical facility.

Another reason, if the Veteran does not enroll in Medicare and decides to enroll years later, the Veteran will be subject to a penalty for not enrolling and signing up for Medicare when eligible.

And according to staff and Veterans living at RI long term care facilities, not including the RI Veterans Home, and or assisted living facilities, the DAV and VA did not provide transportation for the veterans for VA appointments.

Daily, I see veterans living at nursing homes who are eligible for hearing aids from the VA, however, because of having no transportation, the Veteran quality of life is impacted by his or her limited hearing. 

Why would a veteran sign-up years later for Medicare?

Veteran has relocated and closest VA medical care is a significant distance away from his home, unlike in Rhode Island. Another reason could be the Veteran has decided to have other health care options since the Veteran is not happy with the VA healthcare system.

VETTIP: Veterans must not forget, VA healthcare services and cost are subject to annual Congressional legislation and funding. Let’s recall, due to budget issues, retired military personnel who had free health care after retiring, Congress and bills were signed into law requiring retired military personnel to pay an annual fee and some co-payments, although when the military retiree joined the military he or she was told , and was the case, if you do 20 or more years, you have FREE healthcare for life.

Simply put, Congress could enact laws reducing VA healthcare benefits and or adding fees and co-payments for services at the VA medical facility. Or, take away community care services option that requires the VA to approve an outside provider if the VA cannot provide the services within 30 days.

VETTIP: Example, I am 100% VA disabled, and needed physical therapy for a flare up for injury that occurred while in combat, the earliest day the VA could start rehab, was on day 29. Day 29, after the VA gave me a cortisone shot and recommended I immediately start physical therapy. Simply put, I had no option, other than using my private healthcare, until the appointment on day 29, which was the only and earliest date available by the VA.

In closing, with age 65 arriving sooner than later for me, and being a 100% VA compensated disabled veteran, and eligible for Tricare for Life, at age 65 when eligible for Medicare, I will enroll in Medicare and other plans eligible to ensure I have all my options for health care, even though the VA and military retired healthcare, today, is supposed to cover me 100% percent.

Understanding the current Medicare system option, my decision on the  Medicare plan I will choose:

1. Cost of plan will factor in.
2. What plans are offered to a Veteran who has 100% VA coverage and Tricare For Life. Some of the plans offered to veterans are ZERO and or limited monthly cost.
3. Reviewing the plans, more than likely, I would select a plan that probably has higher co-pays for prescription drugs (VA provides all my prescription drugs at no cost), least amount of cost for ambulance services, dental services offered (only 100% VA service connected veterans and or Veterans who have a service connected dental reasons are offered VA dental), best plan for rehabilitative services at a facility or home), others options in the plan like reimbursement for gym facilities, home services that can be provided by the plan.

VETTIP: If after a VA hospital stay or private approved VA hospital stay requires rehabilitative services at a skilled rehabilitative facility, the VA, more than likely (and privy to assisting veterans being discharged from RI Hospital and Landmark for VA approved care, limited facilities in RI and MA are VA approved).

Sadly, recently a Veteran was denied VA reimbursement for almost $10,000 from a rehabilitative stay in RI, the Veteran had to choose after a hospital stay, or go to a VA approved over 150 miles from his home.

Disadvantages of Not Enrolling in Medicare

VA Health care is your only option, unless you pay out of pocket and or have other private coverage.

Advantages of Enrolling in Medicare and Medicare Advantage, and Other Supplement Plans

• If you enroll when you are eligible, you will have other options for health care, which could include a second opinion for a serious health condition.

• If you are not near a VA facility and or inconvenience to await for a VA approved appointment you have other health care coverage.

VETTIP: Privy to a veteran that was concerned with a “weird feeling” he had in his chest. The VA only option was on day 29 ( just shy of 30 days, which the veteran could have requested an outside VA provider). He accepted the appointment on day 29, however, his wife set him up the next day with a in-network Medicare provider. The private Medicare provider identify a heart condition that required immediate surgery.  Cost to the veteran, O, the entire bill, almost $200,000 was covered  by Medicare.

• If you decided years later, you would not pay a penalty for signing up for Medicare. The penalty is based on the amount of years you were eligible for Medicare and choose not to select. An amount the can be significant.

• Flexibility – Medicare coverage allows you to receive care outside the VA system as long as the provider or facility is authorized by Medicare. This allows veterans to stay closer to home if they don’t live near a VA facility.
• Prescription drug coverage – Veterans with VA prescription drug benefits may still choose to enroll in Medicare Part D. This allows them to get medications from non-VA providers and use a local pharmacy instead of the VA mail-order service. Many Medicare Advantage plans also include prescription drug coverage. These are known as MAPD plans.
• Dental and vision coverage – Many Medicare Advantage plans offer coverage for routine dental and vision care. This can be helpful for veterans who do not qualify for these services through their VA benefits package.

How much veterans will pay for VA benefits depends entirely on their eligibility criteria and varies widely from person to person. First, determine your coverage level through the VA and identify what additional benefits you may need based on your health status and preferences. Then you’ll be able to determine your Medicare needs and shop for a Medicare Advantage that will best complement your coverage.

Leveraging both VA health care and Medicare gives you the most comprehensive care with the least amount of financial strain.In conclusion, I encourage all veterans to understand his or her current coverage in the VA health care system. Even if not currently eligible to sign up for Medicare, review and understand your option for Medicare.  For sure, seek professional help to understand the current Medicare and Advantage Plans available to you, which depends on where you live.

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WANTED: Veterans Needing Thanksgiving Dinner Delivered on Thanksgiving 

4th Annual Thanksgiving Dinner on Thanksgiving , November 28, 2024 for Active Duty/ Veterans and Guest( plus all minor children of veteran and or active-duty member). “We have expanded to not just dine-in at Perella’s Ristorante in Warren, but also delivery to those veterans who have limited transportation in Rhode Island and nearby Massachusetts community,” said John Cianci, one of the veteran organizers of the annual Veteran Thanksgiving Free Dinner. 

Veterans, family members, and neighbor of a veteran are encouraged to call Italian American War veterans of US, (401) 677-9838 or email [email protected] with name and address of veteran who would like a not Thanksgiving Dinner delivered on Thanksgiving. 

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WANTED Families to Host Officer Candidates for Thanksgiving

Estimated 200 active-duty candidates stationed at Newport Navy Base attending Officer Candidate School (OCS) will not be home for Thanksgiving. According to the Newport Naval Station, local families can host at least 2 or several of the OCS candidates on Thanksgiving.

For more information:

Naval Station Newport is seeking host families for OCS candidates for Thanksgiving. OCS candidates may be sponsored by active duty military, retired military and GS/NAF civilian employees with prior military service. It is requested potential host families accept a minimum of two candidates. If accepted, families agree to the following terms and conditions: Absolutely no alcohol may be consumed by candidates, regardless of age, Every candidate must be returned to the rendezvous point before 9 p.m., and all candidates must remain at the host home or location for the entirety of their visit. For more information, please contact LT Michelle Kasprak at [email protected] or call (910) 587-1376. Pick location and information will be provided once hosts are approved by command representatives.

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Work Vessels for Vets sends $275,000 of equipment to 27 injured Veterans from Key West, Florida to North Pole, Alaska

From Key West to the North Pole, injured veteran entrepreneurs across America are grateful for Work Vessels for Vets, a unique charity made up of 9 volunteers that awards equipment to new veteran-owned businesses.  As Veterans Week concludes, Work Vessels for Vets announces $275,000 in equipment and mentorship awards in 2024 to veteran-entrepreneurs in 24 states across America.

These new entrepreneurs are overcoming severe combat injuries such as PTSD, TBI, and compromised bodies to embark on their dreams of self-employment, like USMC CPL Pete Nicholsen (LEFT) of Key West who started a Food Boat and Charlie Palmer of North Pole, Alaska who received a cargo trailer for his snow removal business. 

“This is our best year for equipment awards in all our 16 years,” noted Cathy Cook, who manages the program,  “bringing our total  since 2008 to 4000 injured veterans served with $4 million worth of equipment for their new businesses.

The volunteers of Work Vessels for Vets have learned that it is more than just an award of equipment to these injured American servicemen and women.  This unique charity delivers real tools of change, keys to a new future and often a personal lifeline when needed most.  In turn, these American heroes inspire change by building companies, some now worth millions.  They create jobs for their fellow veterans and their communities.  All they really needed is a hand-up. 

“This year is highlighted by our new Vet-to-Vet program, matching past awardees with new applicants in similar businesses,” said Niekrash.  “It is great to see them connect, share ideas, hone business plans, and forge the camaraderie they felt in the military.” 

Vet-to-Vet mentorship cooked up award winning BBQ in Texas by ARMY SGT Steve Rossler (L) with new Texas arrival USAF TSGT Steve D’Amico who is starting the first  Del’s Lemonade franchise in Texas.

About Work Vessels for Vets, Inc.:  Work Vessels for Vets (www.WVFV.org), awards America’s injured veterans with the tools they need to make a successful transition from service-connected injuries to entrepreneurship.  As an all-volunteer-run nonprofit, Work Vessels for Vets has earned the highest charity ratings and assures donors that 98 cents of every dollar goes directly to veterans, earning Top-Rated Nonprofit at GreatNonPRofits.org  and Platinum Level Rank from CANDID (formerly Guide Star) & other national awards.  Donations are fully tax deductible and can be made at the website: workvesselsforveterans.org/donate

See more veteran award stories and learn more about Work Vessels for Vets at:

KUDOs to Connecticut’s base Work Vessels for Vets, an organization I have been privy to Veterans who have benefited from equipment provided by the organization.

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LeaveNoVeteranAlone Veteran Santa Program

Now through December 2024 the LeaveNoVeteranAlone Veteran Santa Program for veterans over 500 veterans living at the Rhode Island Veterans Home and Long Term / Assisted Living Facilities in Rhode Island and Massachusetts.

The Italian American War Veterans of the US/Department of Rhode Island is requesting assistance in filling veteran’s wish list for Christmas.

This year’s program, Liliana has taken on the project to led in assisting the success of the program. Simple, every day items, like batteries, motion battery operated lights for closets, clappers to turn on lamp and TV—-items the veterans can not afford , most veterans are left with $75 a month after paying for his or her care at the long term care facility.

Liliana has established an Amazon gift list, https://www.amazon.com/registries/gl/guest-view/1NP4LQO2F7O44?fbclid=IwY2xjawGGVqlleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHcOAm2DRLqx9fplW7_eGTm4QNtUM-JMyGS9yd9vTJBAl-noduso-UDbcGQ_aem_a3YsygzetGGf3Y_pXcK4vQ

The list is updated weekly, as veterans submit his or her Veteran Christmas Wish list. Items purchased on gift list will be wrapped by Liliana’s school and delivered in December 2024 to the veteran by volunteers.

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EVENTS

November 23 , 2024 – Island Aviation Hall of Fame announces 2024 honorees who will be recognized at November 23 dinner. Everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend this dinner. Tickets cost $65 each and can be obtained by emailing [email protected], or logging in to our website at www.riahof.org. For further information, please call 401-831-8696. More:

The RI Aviation Hall of Fame will induct five new members and honor four others with special recognition awards as part of their 22nd class of honorees. The Hall of Fame will also announce a new initiative involving a scholarship program and present a special recognition to the RI Airport Corporation. The ceremony and dinner will take place at the Scottish Rite Masonic Center in Cranston Saturday evening, November 23rd. Reception is at 5:30PM; dinner and awards will follow.

Guest of Honor Vice Admiral Peter Garvin, US Navy, President of the National Defense University in Washington, DC. An Annapolis grad, he is a career Naval Aviator who served until August as President, US Naval War College in Newport. Special Guest Domenic Giarrusso of Cranston, who served for 28 months as a B-24 flight engineer and mechanic in North Africa and Italy during WWII. He will be 102 years old in January.

Robert M. Magown/Edward F. Roberts Scholarship FundOnMarch 9, 1966, a twin engine aircraft returning to RI from South Carolina crashed in Virginia, killing Colonel Robert M. Magown, CO of the 143rd Air Commando Group and Lt Col Edward F. Roberts, Operations Officer of the Group. 

After their deaths, the Magown-Roberts Scholarship Fund was established with the Rhode Island Foundation to provide educational assistance to Air Guard members and their families. RI Aviation Hall of Fame will be working with the Fund and the Foundation to expand eligibility for scholarships and promote their availability.

Honorees are selected by a committee representing several aviation groups. The committee includes all previous inductees, such as Robert Crandall, former chairman of American Airlines; Jennifer Murray, the first woman to fly a helicopter around the world; and Apollo 8 Astronaut Bill Anders.

Thursday, November 28, 2024 Thanksgiving, FREE Thanksgiving dinner, Perella’s Ristorante, 311 Metacom Ave, Warren RI (please, do not call Perella’s to make reservations) to all veterans and their one guest. Additional guests will be asked to make donations  to sponsor a veteran gift for Christmas. 1:00pm and 4:00pm reservations are open, call the host organization Italian American War Veterans of the US/ Dept. of Rhode Island. (401) 677-9838 or email [email protected]/. Volunteers are welcome in the kitchen, serving, delivering to shut in veterans (last year over 200 meals were served. Donations and sponsors are welcomed, checks made out to ITAM, mailed to Italian American War Veterans of US, 18 Winchester Ave, North Smithfield, note in remarks ‘THANKSGIVING RESTRICTED FUND”. Tax deductible as allowed by IRS regulations. “The more donations and sponsors, the more will spend on the event. For example, we add additional desserts and other side dishes,” said John Cianci, ITAM Commander, “this is not a buffet, sit down with waitress or waiter service in a five star Ristorante.”

Monday. December 2, 2024 – Federal Hill Coffee House, 9:00 to 11:00  a.m  ROMA, 330 Atwells Ave, Providence RI, sponsored by the Italian American War Veterans of the US/Department of RI. Open to all veterans and their guest. Enjoy ROMA’s espresso, coffee, Italian toast,  pastries, calzones and more. POC is ITAM at (401) 677-9838.

Wednesday , December 4, 2024– Italian American War Veterans of US membership FREE Monthly dinner at Rosario Club. Meal choice is Veal or Chicken parmigiana. Doors open 430, dinner starts at 5:15. All ITAM members are encouraged to bring another non-veteran member.  

January 25, 2025 – Rhode Island national Guard Reunion, 2:00 to 4:00 PM  13110 S Lake Mary Jane Lane, Orlando, Florida. 32832. $25 BYOB. Please respond no later than January 10, 2025. Payments can be made by check or pay by Venmo at @Patricia-Ryan-37.

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Help our Veterans at the Operation Stand Down Food Bank!

Supplies are low- please stop by with items – or make a monetary contribution.

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VETERANS VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Italian American War Veterans of US (ITAM) Volunteer Opportunities:

Leave No Veteran Alone Program – 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.

See our need for delivering Thanksgiving meals – top of this article!

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Free Help for Homeless Veterans or those at housing risk

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 – or call (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/rhode-island-outdoors#:~:text=If%20you%20qualify%20for%20a,that%20issued%20the%20disability%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: [email protected]

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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: [email protected]:  the business’s 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, [email protected], 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.