RI Veterans: Did you know? 22.01.26 (Desert Shield/Desert Storm, Local Events, Resources) – John A. Cianci

by John A. Cianci, contributing writer, veterans issues

Did you know a Rhode Islander was one of the casualties during Operation Desert Shield?

Captain Tommie William Bates, Coventry, Rhode Island, was killed in a truck accident while in Saudi Arabia.

 

Captain Tommie William Bates was born on November 30, 1962, in Coventry, Rhode Island. He received an appointment at the US Military Academy at West Point after he graduated from Coventry High Schoo

While at West Point, he participated in Cadet Chapel and was a member of the speech team.  He graduated in 1986 and was assigned to the 24th Infantry Division as a Field Artillery Officer who would deploy with the Division in August 1990 for Operation Desert Storm / Desert Shield and the Gulf War.

On September 14, 1990, Captain Tommie Bates died during his service following injuries sustained in a truck accident.  He rests at the Woodland Cemetery in Coventry, Rhode Island.

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Did you know during Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm (1990-1991)…

The U.S. suffered approximately 383 total casualties, including around 147 hostile battle deaths, about 145 non-battle deaths (including friendly fire), and 467 wounded, with non-combat deaths actually exceeding combat fatalities in the theater.

Data from: https://dcas.dmdc.osd.mil/dcas/app/conflictCasualties/gulf/stormsumUpdate From 35^th Desert Storm Anniversary Reunion

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Update 35^th Desert Storm/Anniversary Reunion

Over a hundred Desert Storm veterans and their guests attended the 35^th Desert Storm Anniversary / Reunion at Tri-City Elks Lodge #14 , West Shore Road, Warwick, RI on Saturday night.

“The Elks allowing the use of the facility to Desert Storm veterans made the event affordable for all veterans and their families,†said John A Cianci, one of the committee members who organized the event.

Veterans traveled from over a dozen states to attend the reunion.

“I came from Florida to be with my brothers and sisters I served with over 35 years ago today,†said Steve Picard, who served with the 119^th Military Police company.

Picard, living in Florida, also added another opportunity to be with members he served with on Sunday, he would tailgate and attend a New England Patriots playoff game against the Houston Texans, and planned on tailgating with other Desert Storm veterans he served with. He had not been back to Rhode Island since 2014, when he son was a lot younger.

David and Mildred Kelleher traveled from North Carolina. Mildred served with the 118^th Military Police Battalion during Operation Desert Storm. She and her husband traveled from North Carolina for the event.

“Sincere appreciation is extended to John Cianci and his outstanding team for their exceptional efforts in organizing a remarkable 35th Desert Storm Reunion, creating an enduring experience. We cherished every moment, delighted in reestablishing connections with our Brothers and Sisters,†she posted on social media, “ Mildred said.

Her husband, David Kelleher, was also deployed as a Rhode Island National Guardsman, serving in the 115^th Military Police company.

Special guest from the Embassy of the State of Kuwait was Haider Abulhasan, Political Counselor, who traveled from Washington DC.

On the head table was a taste of Rhode Island awaiting him, pizza chip, RI red pizza stripes, and Autocrat coffee syrup, supplied by john Cianci of the Italian American War Veterans of the United States.

“He did enjoy the pizza chips and pizza strips as an appetizer while awaiting dinner, “ said Cianci.

From the Everyday Patriot Project, https://www.everydaypatriot.com/2021/09/a-soldiers-story-captain-tommie-william.html

The representative for the Kuwaiti Ambassador, Haider, eloquently conveyed the immense gratitude of the citizens of Kuwait for everything that the USA and allied forces accomplished in regards to the Liberation of Kuwait,†said retired LTC Patty Ryan, one of the committee members, who served during Operation Desert Storm with the 119^th Military Police company.

Cianci presented Haider a plaque representing the State of Rhode Island, Rhode Island National Guard units and soldiers who served.

The hook represents the famous maneuver General Gen. Schwarzkopf’s “Left Hook” in Desert Storm.

The units listed on the plaque are RI Guard units activated for the war. The ribbon on the left is a US ribbon awarded to troops who served in Desert Shield/Storm; 2 stars would represent a Desert Shield/Storm veteran. The ribbon on the right is the Kuwait Liberation ribbon, which was awarded to all Desert Shield/Storm veterans who served in combat in 1990-1991.

The plaque was hand-made by a Rhode Island Vietnam veteran.

Members of the VII Corps Desert Storm Veterans Association also attended the event, traveling. SFC Tom Vinette, Pennsylvania, and Command Sergeant Major John F. McNeirey, Virginia.

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Ryan also added that VII Corps attendees were extremely impressed with the camaraderie and fellowship of the RI Desert Storm Veterans.

McNeirney and Smith are Desert Storm veterans who served under the command of VII Corps. McNeirney told committee members he has traveled to a few dozen Desert Storm events, and by far, this 35^th Desert Storm Reunion/Anniversary is in the top 10 percent of the ones he attended.

Ryan said, “…VII Corps attendees were extremely impressed with the camaraderie and fellowship of the RI Desert Storm Veteransâ€.

Members of the committee were thankful to almst a dozen active duty Navy officers who volunteered to help prepare and serve the dinner. The officers are stationed at Newport Naval Base in Newport, and attending Navy Supply Corps School.

The partnership between the Navy officers is spearheaded by Navy Officer Brent Soenksen, who serves as the active-duty liaison volunteer for the Italian American War Veterans of the United States, https://italianamericanwarveteran.org/

“Without the volunteers, the event would not have been a success, “ said SFC William Gearon, a Desert Storm veteran and treasurer for the 35^th Desert Storm Reunion/Anniversary.

On January 17, 1991, over 35 years ago, 16 hours and 55 minutes after the U,N deadline expired, the first airstrikes commenced to remove Iraqi forces from Kuwait .

The operation involved 1800 coalition aircraft, including F-17 targeting Baghdad. over 700, 000 troops, including over 500, 000 U.S troops, and an estimated 2500 Rhode Islanders served during Operation desert shield/storm.

The air assault would be followed by ground attack. On February 28, 1991, and after only 100 hours of ground assault, restored Kuwait country sovereignty.

One Rhode islander, gave the ultimate sacrifice. May he rest in peace, knowing his brothers and sisters have not forgotten him

Desert Shield/Storm.

Moreover, in his memory, a few hundred New England Desert Storm veterans will be traveling to Washington DC on October 24, 2026, for the dedication of the National Desert Shield/ Storm Memorial.

“ We have short amount of time to raise the funds and plan a Desert Storm Honor Flight for the dedication said John Cianci, who is forming a committee to assist in fundraising and planning the event.

If you would like to be part of the committee, contact John at (401) 677-9838 or email, itamri4vets@gmail.

If you would like to donate to sponsor a New England Desert Storm veteran, go to https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-fund-desert-storm-veterans-dc-trip or mail a check to Italian American war veterans of US, 18 Winchester Ave, North Smithfield RI 02896

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Desert Shield/Storm Memorial

If you would like to be on the Desert Storm Honor Flight committee, contact the Italian American War Veterans of the United States at (401) 677-9838 or via email itamri4vets@gmail.com.

The Desert Shield and Desert Storm Memorial is a new national monument to be built at the National Mall in Washington D.C. The groundbreaking ceremony occurred on July 14, 2022.

Although we have been constructing the various elements of the memorial off-site for several years, on-site construction has begun. The dedication will be October 24, 2026.

National Desert Storm and Desert Shield War Memorial Act – Authorizes the National Desert Storm Memorial Association to establish a commemorative work on federal land in the District of Columbia to commemorate and honor those who, as members of the Armed Forces, served on active duty in support of Operation Desert Storm or Operation Desert Shield.

Construction of the Memorial is led by the National Desert Storm Memorial Association, a 501(c)3 organization in Washington, D.C. The association is led by a Board of Directors comprised of veterans who served during Operation Desert Storm.

More information on monument go to https://www.ndswm.org/ and https://www.mynbc5.com/article/desert-storm-memorial-emily-bedard-rob-eccleston/69295603

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Information on Gulf War Illnesses:

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

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

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UPCOMING EVENTS

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

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Veteran Burial Resource Guide

RI Veteran Memorial Cemetery, Exeter, RI

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

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

How to apply?

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

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Veteran Resource Guide

Retirees

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

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

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

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

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FAQ Medicare For Veterans

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

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

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

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

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

Monthly VA Disability Compensation

Frequently Asked Questions Providence Medical Hospital

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

A – VA Providence Medical Center

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Step 2:   Initiate a clinical appeal.

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

Here’s a more detailed explanation:

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

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

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VETERANS VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

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

Leave No Veteran Alone Program (https://italianamericanwarveteran.org)     – Monday and Saturday, ITAM seeks volunteers to meet up at designated nursing homes to meet and socialize with veterans living at the facility. We schedule the facilities 30 to 60 days in advance. Volunteers socialize with veterans and TRY TO SPOIL them with refreshments we provide.   Point of contact, Wendy Cianci, assistant (401) 677-9838.

Monthly Schedule for long term care and assisted living facilities needing volunteers:

Saturdays:

1st Saturday: South Kingstown Nursing and Rehab, 2115 S County Trail, West Greenwich, RI

3rd Saturday, Friendly Home, 303 Rhodes Ave, Woonsocket RI

Mondays:

2nd Monday – Greenwood Nursing and Rehab, 1139 Main Ave, Warwick RI

4th Monday– Chapel Hill Senior Living , 10 Old Diamond Hill Road, Cumberland RI  Tuesdays

1st Tuesday Village House Nursing and Rehab, 70 Harrison Ave, Newport RI

2nd Tuesday– Elmwood Nursing Home and Rehab, 225 Elmwood Ave. Providence RI

Wednesdays

1st   Wednesday– Eastgate Nursing and Rehab, 198 Waterman Ave, East Providence RI 2nd Wednesday -West Shore Health Center109 West Shore Road, Warwick   RI Fridays

1st Friday-Benchmark at Forge Hill, 4 Forge Hill Road, Franklin MA

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Disabled American Veterans Volunteer Drivers Needed at VA Providence

Looking for a meaningful way to give back? Join VA Providence’s Volunteer Transportation Network (VTN) and help ensure Veterans get to their medical appointments with ease and dignity.

As a volunteer driver, you’ll play a vital role by picking up and dropping off Veterans using our DAV vans.

What We’re Looking For:

Active driver’s license & vehicle insurance

Clean driving record

Ability to pass a background check

COVID-19 vaccination

Details: © Standard hours: 6:00 AM to 1:00 PM (flexible options available) – Contact: Joseph Medeiros at (401) 457-3387 or Voluntary Services at (401) 457-3002 to learn more!

Let’s make the road smoother for those who’ve served-volunteer today!

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Free Help for Homeless Veterans

Veterans who are homeless or at risk of homelessness-and their family members, friends, and supporters-can make the call to or chat online with the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans, where trained counselors are ready to talk confidentially 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Who Can Call

• Veterans who are homeless or at risk of homelessness
• Family members, friends and supporters calling on behalf of Veterans
• VA Medical Centers and other VA facilities and staff
• Federal, state and local partners
• Community agencies and providers who serve Veterans who are homeless

Why Make the Call to 1-877-4AID VET (877-424-3838)

• It’s free and confidential
• You’ll get access to trained VA counselors
• It’s available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
• You’ll get information about VA homeless programs, health care and other services in your area

What Happens When Veterans Make the Call

• A trained VA staff member asks a few questions to find out what you need
• Then, you’re connected to the nearest VA staff person who can help
• What Happens When Others Make the Call
• Family members and non-VA providers receive information about available homeless programs and services
• They can keep their information confidential or leave contact information so staff can follow up
• VA’s Resources for Homeless and At-Risk Veterans
• VA offers a wide array of services to help homeless and at-risk Veterans.

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Free Rhode Island Hunting and Fishing Licenses for 100% Disabled Veterans:

A Veteran who has a 100% disability rating from the VA is eligible for free Rhode Island hunting and fishing licenses.

No cost licenses are available if you are:

• over 65 AND a Rhode Island resident
• a veteran with 100% disability status from the Department of Veterans Affairs
• a person with 100% total disability status from the Social Security Administration

To apply in person at DEM, please bring a photo ID and an ORIGINAL

DOCUMENT OF THE FINAL DECISION(S). Office hours are 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. (directions)

To apply by mail, please complete an application and mail the application and a copy of your photo ID and the ORIGINAL DOCUMENT OF THE FINAL DECISION(S). Please allow two weeks for processing.

The address to obtain your license in person or by mail is: DEM Licensing

Office 235 Promenade Street, Room 360 Providence, RI 02908 (401) 222-3576

To purchase online, you will be required to certify that you have an

ORIGINAL DOCUMENT OF THE FINAL DECISION(S). You will also be required to enter the date the decision expires. The Department will audit compliance with the certification and may, at any time, request a copy of the current DOCUMENT OF THE FINAL DECISION(S). Failure to submit the documentation by the date requested may result in the suspension of your fishing and hunting license. Also, Rhode Island General Law 11-18-1 prohibits giving false documents to an agent, employee, or public official. The penalty is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $1,000 or imprisonment up to one year.

Rhode Island Hunting and Fishing Benefits for Service Members and Veterans: Rhode Island offers several hunting and fishing benefits to Service members and Veterans. A short description of each is listed below. Applicants are required to show documentation proving eligibility when they apply:

• Active-Duty Service members – Military ID
• Veterans – DD214
• Disabled Veterans – VA Disability Certification Letter ( Contact VA office)

Applicants can apply online at Rhode Island Outdoors, in person at the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management, Office of Boating Registration and Licenses in Providence (Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.), at an Authorized In–Person Sales Agent, or they can mail applications to:  Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management 235 Promenade Street, Room 360″¨Providence, RI 02908 – Phone: 401-222-3576

Learn more about FREE Rhode Island Hunting , Fishing, State Parks, and Golf   Benefits for Service Members and Veterans

https://dem.ri.gov/about–us/dem–offices/boating–registration–licenses/rhodeislandoutdoors#:~:text=If%20you%20qualify%20for%20a,that%20issued%20the%2 0disability%20decision.

Free Rhode Island State Park Passes for 100% Disabled Veterans:   Rhode Island offers the State Park Disability Pass for use at any state-owned recreational facility to disabled Veterans who have a 100% service-connected disability rating from the VA.

The State Park Disability Pass authorizes free admission and parking but does not exempt the following:

• Licensing fees
• Camping fees
• Picnic table fees
• Specialized facility use fees
• Use of equestrian areas
• Performing art centers
• Game fields fees
• Mule shed fees

If the disabled Veteran cannot drive, the vehicle transporting the Veteran will not be charged.

Veterans must apply in person at the Rhode Island State Parks and Recreation Headquarters and are required to show official documentation (dated within the past year) from the VA that states they have a 100% service-connected disability.

Rhode Island State Parks and Recreation Headquarters 1100 Tower Hill

Road North Kingstown, RI 02852 Phone: 401-6676200″¨Email: dem.riparks@dem.ri.gov

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RESOURCES & ongoing groups

Below are all the groups the Providence Vet Center is currently offering.”¯ As this list changes, I will provide updates. Please send me any questions that you may have, thank you for your time!

***All Vet Center Groups require that the Veteran be enrolled with the Vet Center prior to attending. To check eligibility or for questions, please contact the Vet Center at (401) 739-0167 or reach out to our Veteran Outreach Program Specialist (VOPS)

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Group (PTSD) – 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month from 2:00 – 3:30 p.m. (Group is only active September through May)

Global War on Terrorism (GWOT) and Vietnam Veterans PTSD Group – 2nd”¯and 4th – Wednesday of the month from 9:30 – 11:00 a.m.

Vietnam Veteran PTSD Group – 1st”¯and 3rd Monday of the month from 10:30 – 12:00 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Art Expression Group – Every Thursday from 9:00 – 12:00 p.m.

Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF)/Operation Iraqi Freedom

(OIF)/Operation New Dawn (OND) Group – Every Wednesday from 11:00 – 12:00 p.m.

Stress Management – Every Thursday from 9:00 – 10:00 a.m.

Low Impact Walking  Group”¯– Every Tuesday from 9:00 – 10:00 a.m.

Guitar 4 Veterans – Every Wednesday from 7:00-8:30 p.m.

Monday Mindfulness Group – Every Monday from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.

Yoga Group – Every Friday from 12:00 – 1:00 p.m.

Moral Injury Group – Every Friday from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.

Modern Warrior Support Group– 1st” and 3rd Monday of the month from 2:30 – 4:00 pm.

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Discounts for Veterans

Services  

No Problem Plumbing and Heating LLC 15% military discount, ask for Ron Gaynor, (401) 568-6666. Veterans must provide proof of eligibility with a VA Card, VA ID Card, or RI State license with veteran identification.

Restaurants  

Applebee’s –  Military Discount. With more than 2,000 locations, Applebee’s is a family grill restaurant. Applebee’s gives 10% off for active duty and veteran. Last verified 07/31/2022.

Badger’s Pub – 530 Broadway, Pawtucket is now offering a free meal to veterans every first Friday of the month at the bar. Veterans can partake in a variety of activities during the week, including bingo on Mondays, darts on Tuesdays, high-lo jack on Wednesdays, indoor cornhole on Thursdays, and Karaoke on Fridays and Saturdays, Badger said. The bar also hosts poker on Saturdays and Sundays.

Denny’s– Hartford Ave, Johnston offers 10% discount for veterans and active duty. Denny’s is a table service diner-style restaurant chain.”¯Last verified 07/31/2022.

Outback Steakhouse– 10% Discount to active and veterans. Last verified 07/28/2021

99 Restaurant & Pub – The 99 Restaurant & Pub offers a 10% military discount to members of Veterans Advantage. Available at select locations only. Bring valid military ID

Retailers  

Advance Auto Parts– 10% for Active Duty, Veterans, and families. Last verified 07/28/2021

Bass Pro Shops – Offers a 5% discount to active-duty military, reservists, and National Guard. Sign up and verify your status online or bring your military ID when you shop at your nearest Bass Pro store (source).

BJs Wholesale – Reduced membership fee. BJ’s offers all military personnel over 25% off their Membership. Last verified 07/28/2021

Lowes – Enroll in the Lowe’s Military Discount Program to activate your 10% discount – “Our way of saying Thank You”to our active duty, retired and military veterans and their spouses with a 10% discount on eligible items. Verification of your military status is fast and easy through our partner GameStop”¯- is offering a 10% in-store military discount on all pre-owned products, collectibles, and select new products. Available to current and former military members who bring any valid proof of service or when they verify through “¯ID.me

Home Depot – Offers a 10% off military discount on regularly priced merchandise for in-store purchases for active duty, retired military, and reservists at participating locations. Customers are required to show a valid government-issued military ID card to redeem this offer.

Kohls – 15% discount offers for active military, veterans, retirees, and their immediate family members a 15% discount on purchases made on Mondays, in store only. In order to receive the military discount, eligible customers must present proper identification along with any tender type.

Jiffy Lube – HONORING VETERANS ALL DAY EVERY DAY! – We didn’t want to wait for Veteran’s Day to express our appreciation and gratitude for your service. That’s why every Team Car Care owned and operated Jiffy Lube ® service center is offering our BEST discount of 10% OFF as a “Thank You”to the men and women of our Armed Forces for their service to our country. *Disclaimer*- I.D. required. No coupon is required. Excludes batteries and brakes, alignment, and diagnostic services. Available only at 3 select locations: Tioque Ave, Coventry RI – Bald Hill Road, Warwick RI – Park Ave, Cranston RI

Michaels – offers a 15% off military discount on the entire in-store purchase including sale items for active duty, retired military, guard, reservists, veterans, and family members. How to get: 1. Create an account. Log in to Michaels Rewards. 2. Get verified. Provide your military information to get verified, instantly. 3. Go shopping! To use your discount online and in store, just sign into your account or provide your Michaels Rewards phone number at checkout.

O’Reilly Auto Parts – 10% discount on in store items for Active Duty, Veterans and families. Last verified 3/4/21.

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If you are a retailer and or a veteran aware of a business not listed above, please forward to: itamri4vets@gmail.com:  the business’s name, location, and military and veteran discount offered.

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If you have an event, meeting, other pertinent veteran information, or email questions or help needed, contact the Italian American War Veteran Service Officer, John A Cianci, itamri4vets@gmail.com, ITAM Office 1-(401)6779VET(9838)    

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

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If you are a retailer and or a veteran aware of a business not listed above, please forward to: itamri4vets@gmail.com; the business name, location, and military and veteran discount offered.

If you have an event, meeting, other pertinent veteran information, or email questions or help needed, contact the Italian American War Veteran Service Officer, John A Cianci, itamri4vets@gmail.com, ITAM Office (401) 677-9VET (9838)

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

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John A. Cianci is a Veteran Service Officer. Retired, U.S. Army MSgt., Persian Gulf War and Iraq War combat theater.

Cianci, a combat disabled Veteran, served in Desert Shield/Storm and Operation Iraqi Freedom. His awards include Bronze Star, Combat Action Badge, Good Conduct, and others.

Cianci belongs to numerous veterans organizations – Italian American War Veterans, American Legion, Veterans of Foreign War, and many more organizations. He is an active volunteer assisting veterans to navigate federal and state benefits they have earned. He is Department of Rhode Island Department Commander Italian American War Veterans and Veteran Service Officer.

He is a graduate of Roger Williams University (BS Finance), UCONN business school* (Entrepreneur Bootcamp for Veterans), Solar Energy International Residential, Commercial and Battery Based Photovoltaic Systems certificate programs, numerous certificates from the Department of Defense renewable energy programs, including graduate of the Solar Ready Vets Program.