RI Veterans: Did you know? 23.01.25 – (President reinstates 8,000 soldiers, more…) – John A. Cianci

by John A. Cianci, contributing writer, veterans issues

Photo, top. Half mast in RI in honor of President Jimmy Carter

Trump reinstating over 8,000 soldiers discharged for refusing COVID-19 shot

Almost immediately after taking the oath to become the 47^th President of the United States, President Donald Trump vowed to reinstate more than 8,000 troops involuntary discharged from military service for refusing to take COVID-19 vaccine.

Additionally, Trump’s order promising them back to pay that could cost the federal government hundreds of millions of dollars.

“I will reinstate any service members who were unjustly expelled from our military for objecting to the COVID vaccine mandate with full back pay,” Trump said, drawing applause from a crowd of supporters crowded into the U.S. Capitol for ceremonies. “And I will sign an order to stop our warriors from being subjected to radical political theories and social experiments while on duty.”

Many of those involuntary discharged for refusing the COVID-19 shot are decorated war time veterans. Moreover, many would have continued their service and more than likely, would have retired from the military.  A few weeks ago, Republicans introduced legislation that would offer service members who were fired over the military’s COVID-19 vaccine and mandate a chance to get their jobs back and receive back pay. 

The AMERICANS Act, put forth by Sen.Ted Cruz  R-Texas, and freshman Rep. Pat Harrigan, R-N.C., bans the Pentagon from instituting any additional COVID-19 vaccine mandates without congressional approval.  It would offer reinstatement to any service member discharged solely for their refusal of the COVID vaccine and credit them for the time of their involuntary separation for retirement pay.

The AMERICANS Act, should be a moot bill, since Under the Constitution, the President, in addition to being Chief Executive, is Commander in Chief of the Army and Navy.  

VETTIP:  If you are one of the troops discharged because refusing COVID-19 shots, we recommend you reach out to congressional delegation to seek assistance on how to be reinstated and receive back pay that could be worth tens of thousands to you.

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Eligibility For Rhode Island Veterans Memorial Cemetery

Start off with questions from one of our readers:

Q: I served 6 years in the RI National Guard, am I eligible for burial at the Rhode Island Memorial Veterans Cemetery in Exeter RI? 

A: Yes, National Guard members who served honorably and meet certain other criteria may be eligible for burial in the Rhode Island Veterans Memorial Cemetery.  National Guard members who served honorably and meet certain other criteria may be eligible for burial in the Rhode Island Veterans Memorial Cemetery. 

Eligibility criteria

• Service: Served in the Rhode Island National Guard or Reserve for at least six years and were honorably discharged 
• Residency: Were a Rhode Island resident for at least two years before death 
• Discharge: Were discharged under honorable conditions 
• Death: Died in the line of duty or from an injury or disease caused by service 
• Campaign or expeditionary medal: Received a campaign or expeditionary medal for active duty service 
• Active duty: Served more than 90 days of active duty during wartime or more than two years of active duty during peacetime 

Proof of eligibility 

• DD214, NGB-22, or reserve documentation
• Rhode Island driver’s license, voter registration, or IRS/State tax forms

The funeral director or informant listed on the deceased veteran’s death certificate is responsible for proving eligibility.

More information on eligibility for RI Veterans Memorial Cemetery, https://vets.ri.gov/find-your-benefits/find-your-benefits/ri-veterans-memorial-cemetery

How much does it cost for an eligible veteran or spouse/eligible dependent to be buried?

Veteran: No cost for the veteran for in ground burial or urn in the niche in the columbarium for urn.

Veteran Spouse or Eligible Dependent:

$230 for eligibility for a veteran’s spouse or eligible dependent per National Guard / Reserve service time qualification supported by a NGB 22. Layman’s term, Guardsman or reservist is not eligible any other way for burial in RI Veterans Memorial Cemetery.

$60 dollars for veterans meeting other criteria. For example, served more than 2 years active duty. 

What if my spouse passes first?

The spouse or eligible dependent can be buried first under the veteran’s eligibility. 

How do I prove my eligibility?

• DD214, NGB-22, or reserve documentation
• Rhode Island driver’s license, voter registration, or IRS/State tax forms

The funeral director or informant listed on the deceased veteran’s death certificate is responsible for proving eligibility.

How do I apply for Rhode island Memorial Veteran Cemetery?

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

Mailing your application:

Step 1 Print out the required application. https://vets.ri.gov/find-your-benefits/ri-veterans-memorial-cemetery/veterans-cemetery-interment-application

Step 2 Complete and mail :

Rhode Island Veterans Memorial Cemetery – 301 South County Trail – Exeter, RI 02822

Application can also be faxed (401) 295-8797)  

Or email application to: [email protected]

Questions, call the Rhode Island Veteran Cemetery, TEL: (401) 268-3088 

VETTIP: Ensure to mail your DD214 or NGB 22 with your application, to support eligibility.

What if I do not have my DD214 or NGB 22, who do I contact?

In my opinion, the family should ask the funeral home to reach out to a congressional leader’s office, who can assist and obtain required documentation in a day or two. Additionally, the funeral home will arrange military burial honors for the veteran.

The Rhode Island National Guard also can provide assistance by contacting Retirement Services Officer, Mr. Raymond R. Petrin, (401) 275-4142, email [email protected]

Additionally, the Italian American War Veterans of US (ITAM) , Veteran Service Officer, John A. Cianci offers FREE service in helping obtain require documentation. He can be reached at (401) 677-9838 or [email protected]

VETTIP: 2 Weeks ago ITAM received a frantic call from a daughter of a Marine who just passed away. The funeral home told her the discharge certificate did not make her dad eligible to be buried at the RI Memorial Veteran Cemetery, Moreover, to acquire the required DD214 would takes a month or two. She sent ITAM a copy of the paperwork she had, and ITAM advised her to contact one of the RI congressional delegation to assistance to obtain the DD214. By the end of the day, she had the DD214 required for eligibility. 

Veterans, if you do not have your DD214 and want to be buried in federal or state veterans cemetery, follow the steps below:

Option 1: Request your records online 

You can request your military service records online using the National Archives’ eVetRecs tool. When you get to eVetRecs, select Make a new request.

Request your records using eVetRecs on the National Archives website

Note: You’ll receive an email letting you know that we’ve received your request.

Option 2: Fill out the National Archive’s request form (to mail or fax)

Fill out a Request Pertaining to Military Records (Standard Form 180).

Get Standard Form 180 to download

Mail or fax your completed form to the appropriate address or fax number listed on the last page of the form. To find the right address or fax number for you, you’ll need to use the first chart on that page to find your branch of service, separation date, and type of record.

Option 3 Write A Letter to request records

If you are not able to obtain a SF-180, you may still submit a request for military records. Requests must contain enough information to allow us to identify the record from among the more than 70 million on file at the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC). For example, if you are requesting an Official Military Personnel File (OMPF), please include as much of the following information as possible:

• The veteran’s complete name used while in service
• Service number or social security number
• Branch of service
• Dates of service
• Date and place of birth may also be helpful, especially if the service number is not known
• If the request pertains to a record that may have been involved in the 1973 fire, also include:
  • Place of discharge
  • Last unit of assignment
  • Place of entry into the service, if known.

VETTIP: Ensure to specify you are requesting your NGB 22

Other Than Veteran:

Please Note: Next-of-kin (the un-remarried widow or widower, son, daughter, father, mother, brother or sister of the deceased veteran) must provide proof of death of the veteran, such as a copy of the death certificate, a letter from the funeral home or a published obituary.

How to Submit Requests: 

Federal law [5 USC 552a(b)] requires that all written requests for Federal (non-archival) records and information be signed (in cursive) and dated (within the last year).

• Mail a letter or Standard Form (SF) 180, Request Pertaining to Military Records to:
  National Personnel Records Center
  1 Archives Drive
  St. Louis, MO 63138
• Fax a letter or Standard Form 180 to: 314-801-9195

The Center will most commonly provide a response electronically (if an email is provided) or in writing by U.S. Mail.

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EVENTS

January 16 & 17, 2025 10:00 am  -1 00 pm Career Fair, Rhode Island Veterans Home 480 Metacom Ave, Bristol RI

January 22, 2025 Warwick Public Library, 5:30-7:30 Veterans Coffee Social , Guest, Kathi Masi, Culinary Specialist, for a cooking demonstration for a healthy brain food.

January 25, 2025  Rhode Island national Guard Reunion, 2:00 to 4:00 PM ““ 13110 S Lake Mary Jane Ln, 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

January 29, 2025 – Rosario Club, 17 Rosario Drive, Providence RI, 5:00-7:00 pm. Italian American War Veterans of US/Department of Rhode Island monthly membership dinner, 5:00 to 7:00 pm. Macaroni and Meatball dinner FREE for all members and their guest. FREE remake of original dog tag“”made on site, for ALL new members, contact John (401) 677-9838, or via email [email protected]

February 2, 2025, 930 am, CHAPEL OF FOUR CHAPLAINS MEMORIAL Four Chaplains Memorial Service will be held at Cornerstone of Faith Methodist Church11081 Main Street. (Parking is available behind the Church, across the street and also behind the former Police station building). There will be a special offering; proceeds going to the Chapel of Four Chaplains Foundation to aid in continuing their work to educate the public of this great, heroic, historical event. This is an ecumenical service, all are welcome. We hope you will be able to join us. Light refreshments will follow in the Church Fellowship Hall. Please RSVP by Tuesday, January 2025 to insure ample food will be available. Jane Deptula, Marine Corps League (480-0445) or (email [email protected])

February 3 2025, Monday , 9:00 to 11:00 Federal Hill Veteran Coffee Housesponsored by the Italian American war Veterans of US. Free to all veterans and guest. Refreshments include ROMA’s Italian Toast, pastries, calzones, and pizza. More information contact ITAM , (401) 677-9838 or email [email protected]

March 15, 2025 Tea for RI Women Veterans , 1:00- 3:00pm , Rhode Island Veterans Home, 480 Metacom Ave, Bristol RI . Open to all women veterans. Sponsored by Unit 118 Military Women Across the Nation.

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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.

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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:

Details:

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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.