RI Veterans: Did you know? 27.11.25 (Thanksgiving, events, resources) – John A. Cianci

by John A. Cianci, contributing writer, veterans issues

Thanksgiving Day Dinner is Offered FREE for Veterans and Guests on Thanksgiving

The Italian American War Veterans of the United States(ITAM) ’ 5^th Annual free Thanksgiving dinner will be at Perella’s Ristorante, 311 Metacom Ave, Warren, RI, on Thanksgiving Day.

Last year, almost 250 Thanksgiving dinners were served at Perella’s Ristorante, and an additional 50 meals were delivered to veterans living at home throughout RI and MA.

“Lou Perella, owner of Perella’s Ristorante, turns over his kitchen and restaurant to ITAM, and over 50 volunteers prepare and serve Thanksgiving dinner to our veterans, “ said John Cianci, Department Commander/Veteran Service Officer for ITAM.

In addition to veterans, an estimated 70 active-duty soldiers and sailors served dinner last year.

Unique to the event, the dinner is served by volunteer waitresses and waiters.

The event is FREE thanks to donations spearheaded by U.S Army retired Lieutenant Colonel Anthony Desmarias and his family, donors, and supporting local businesses; Morris Farm (Exeter, RI), Karie’s Kitchen (North Kitchen), Roma ( Providence, RI), Perella’s Ristorante ( Warren, RI), and refreshment donations by Coca-Cola and Budweiser.

Volunteers start preparing the meal 3 days in advance. Last year, 30 turkeys and almost 500 pounds of potatoes were cooked to support the event.

“Without the volunteers, this event could not happen, “ said Tom, one of the volunteers. Additional volunteers are needed not only on Thanksgiving, but also on Tuesday and Wednesday, when all the sides are prepared and ready for Thanksgiving. If you are interested in volunteering, contact ITAM at (401) 677-9838.

Below is a Facebook message from one of our veterans, the ITAM organization has been supporting over the holidays for several years:

Facebook Message from Veteran:

Unbelievable life-changing, soon stuff settles here when I get some payment I want to donate some money to you for Thanksgiving for veterans. You guys been taking care of me and my family for a long time now and I have to pay it back, weather with a gift certificate or just straight cash for you to buy somebody a meal.

The Veteran above had been battling numerous illnesses since being discharged, and after almost 3 years, and numerous surgeries. The Veterans Administration finally acknowledged his illnesses were a result of his military service.

Thanksgiving menu includes: Turkey, Ham, Mashed potatoes, yams, corn, carrots, Caesar salad, desserts, pies, and Italian cookies.

This year’s event is expected to serve an additional 100 meals. The cost of last year’s event was over $6000.

“Last year we had a last-minute donation, which allowed us to add shrimp cocktails as one of the appetizers,” said Wendy, who coordinates the volunteers and schedules the time and seating for the event.

Want to Volunteer:

Call ITAM (401) 677-9838    or. Email itamri4vets@gmail.com

Want To Donate:

Visit https://italianamericanwarveteran.org/ or mail a check to ITAM, 18 Winchester Ave, North Smithfield, RI 02896 (checks made out to Italian American War Veterans of the US). Donations are tax-deductible, and all donations will receive an acknowledgement letter and a letter that can be used to support an IRS deduction.

ITAM will also accept gift cards to local markets and Walmart. Gift cards would be used to purchase necessary products, and all leftover gift cards will be added to the “Holiday Meal/ Grocery Boxes” delivered to approximately 20 veterans for Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Veteran who would like a meal delivered:

Call ITAM (401) 677-9838    or. Email itamri4vets@gmail.com

100 percent of all donations is spent on the Thanksgiving event and or Holiday / Grocery Boxes delivered to Rhode Island veterans and their families.

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Did you know that veterans and widows who live in Rhode Island are entitled to a tax credit of $75 to $7500 on their annual real estate taxes?

How to apply?

A veteran must go to their town or city tax assessor’s office with their DD-214 or other discharge paperwork.  A one-time application is filled out, which will be reviewed for a veteran tax exemption.  Unlike other tax exemptions, the veteran tax exemption can be approved and used alongside other tax exemptions.

VETTIP:  Most towns or cities require applications to be submitted by January 31 to be approved and credited for the veteran’s upcoming real estate tax bill. 

Who is eligible for this veteran tax exemption?

If you are an honorable discharge veteran, Rhode Island law from the Cold War era primarily impacts veterans, most notably through property tax exemptions extended to those who served between 1947 and 1991, and since 1991 the United States has been at war in the Middle  East, if you have served since 1947 to the present, and were honorably discharged, you should be eligible for the veteran tax exemption.

VETTIP: Every veteran homeowner should bring his or her discharge paperwork to the city or town tax assessor’s office to apply for the real estate credit. This credit is for all veterans who have served,  to include as members of the Rhode Island Guard or Army Reserve, those who served stateside, and those who have not served in combat.

Simply put, if you served and were honorably discharged since 1947, you are eligible for $75 to $7500 off your annual real estate tax.

More information on real estate veteran tax exemption:

In Rhode Island, eligibility for a veteran tax exemption is primarily based on

Honorable wartime service and residency in the state, with specific criteria and exemption amounts varying by municipality and type of disability.

General Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for a basic veteran’s property tax exemption, an applicant generally must meet the following criteria:

• Residency: The applicant’s legal and primary residence must be in the state of Rhode Island.
• Discharge Status: The veteran must have been honorably discharged or discharged under conditions other than dishonorable.
• Wartime Service: Service must have occurred during specific qualifying dates or conflicts as defined in Rhode Island General Laws §§ 44-3-4 and 44-3-4.2. For conflicts after the Vietnam era, a campaign ribbon or expeditionary medal must have been earned.
• Property Ownership: The exemption is applied to the veteran’s real estate or motor vehicle tax bill; they must own the property for which the exemption is claimed.

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Italian American War Veterans of the United States Advocating For 100% Disabled Veterans

The Italian American War Veterans of the United States (ITAM) has petitioned the Exeter Town Council to increase the town’s veteran tax exemption for 100% VA service-connected disabled veterans. The Town of Exeter has scheduled an ITAM veteran advocate to appear before the council on December 1, 2025.

If approved, Exeter will exempt 100% disabled veterans who own their homes from paying real estate taxes. Currently, Exeter veterans receive an estimated $75-85 of their annual real estate tax.

To increase the veteran tax exemption, Rhode Island’s local cities and towns must seek state legislation.  If legislation is passed, the larger exemption from property taxes for eligible 100% disabled veterans, while some municipalities may offer additional local tax breaks. 

”Unlike Connecticut and Massachusetts, except for the towns of Cranston and Scituate, 100% disabled service-connected veterans who reside in a Rhode Island town or city do not get an additional veteran tax exemption for his or her residence,” said an Exeter 100% service-connected disabled veteran. “I’m currently looking to relocate to CT or MA, if I can’t find an affordable house to purchase in Cranston or Scituate.”

Currently, local towns and cities must seek legislative approval to increase veteran tax exemptions. If the Exeter Town Council approves the higher veteran tax exemption for a 100% service-connected permanent and total disability rating, the local state representative and or senator must submit legislation in the 2026 session.

The State of Connecticut passed a state law in 2023, https://www.cga.ct.gov/2025/rpt/pdf/2025-R-0129.pdf  to ensure that all cities and towns provide veterans with a 100% service-connected permanent and total disability rating , who are eligible for a full property tax exemption on their primary residence (dwelling) or one motor vehicle.

This exemption is mandated by state law (Public Act 24-46), effective October 1, 2024, and towns must provide it.

“Every city or town in Rhode Island should provide veterans 100% service-connected permanent and total disability rating the full real estate tax exemption,” said John Cianci, State Commander Italian American War veterans of US,  “These veterans were injured permanently while serving their country, and the majority are unable to work, or restricted from working to maintain VA current rating.”

Local elected officials could require every Rhode Island city or town to pass a law similar to Connecticut’s.

“Sadly, I have not seen 1 bill submitted by any elected state official in 25 years, submitting legislation like the State of Connecticut has done.

State legislation would honor the sacrifices of 100% service-connected permanent and total disability Rhode Island veteran homeowners, which would exempt the veteran’s tax on their home.” Said Cianci. ”Having the increase exemption will assist the veteran to remain living in his or her home.”

Submission of Connecticut-like legislation in the upcoming 2026 should gather necessary support for passage, since a few elected officials would oppose such a bill honoring the sacrifices for a small group of 100% service-connected permanent and total disability.

Copy of letter submitted via email to Exeter Town Council:

Good Morning Lynn,

I am writing as the State Commander/Veteran Service Officer and resident of the Town of Exeter.

I would like to appear before the town council and present an argument that the Town of Exeter should have an additional

Currently, the Town of Exeter provides a $5,000 veterans’ property tax exemption on the assessed value of real or personal property.  The town also offers an Elderly/disabled tax exemption; however, this exemption appears to exclude veterans receiving 100% service-connected disability benefits, certified by the Veterans Administration.

Key reasons and justifications include:

• Recognition of Sacrifice:The exemption is a tangible way for a town to honor the significant sacrifices, injuries, and health conditions veterans incurred as a direct result of their military service.
• Financial Stability and Affordability:For many 100% disabled veterans, the exemption provides crucial financial assistance that can make the difference in being able to afford purchasing and maintaining a home, which they might not qualify for otherwise due to their disability status impacting their earning potential. This helps reduce stress and distractions, contributing to overall family well-being.
• Support for Severely Injured Veterans:Veterans with a 100% disability rating often have permanent and total disabilities, such as the loss of limbs, blindness, or other severe conditions. This exemption helps ease their financial burden as they manage their extensive health needs and living expenses.
• Attracting and Retaining Veterans:A community that provides strong support systems, including robust tax exemptions, becomes a more attractive place for veterans and their families to live. This can encourage veterans to settle in the community, potentially attracting new residents and contributing to the local economy.
• Support for Specially Adapted Housing:Many exemptions specifically cover housing that was acquired or modified with federal assistance to accommodate a veteran’s severe, service-connected disabilities. A full property tax exemption ensures these adapted homes remain affordable and accessible for the veterans who need them most.
• Support for Surviving Spouses:Many programs extend the exemption to the unremarried surviving spouse of a qualified veteran, so long as they continue to occupy the property as their primary residence, providing stability to the veteran’s family after their death.

COVER MEMO

To:       Exeter Town Council Members

From:   John Cianci (Sponsor / Resident / Veteran Service Officer/Advocate)

Via:      The Italian American War Veterans of the United States

Subject: Proposal for Full Property Tax Exemption for 100% Service-Connected Disabled Veterans

Date:    November 21, 2025

This memo accompanies the proposed ordinance establishing a full real-estate tax exemption for Exeter residents who are 100% service-connected disabled veterans, along with a three-year retroactive tax credit. The purpose of this policy is to recognize the extraordinary sacrifice made by severely disabled veterans and to align Exeter with neighboring Rhode Island communities and other states that have adopted similar measures.

Fiscal Impact Considerations

– Exeter has a small veteran population relative to surrounding towns, and an even smaller subset of residents rated 100% service-connected disabled. The expected participation is therefore limited as there are only three residents that currently qualify as of the date of this memo.
– Municipal tax assessors in similar Rhode Island towns (e.g., Scituate) report minimal revenue impact following adoption of full exemptions for 100% disabled veterans.
– The ordinance includes a retroactive component (3 years), which may require a one-time reconciliation. This can be funded through:
• Contingency funds
• Unassigned fund balance
• A phased refund schedule, if desired by the Council.

Policy Alignment

– Connecticut became the most recent state (2024) to adopt a statewide tax exemption for 100% disabled veterans.
– Twenty of the fifty states now offer full exemptions, including Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, Iowa, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Mississippi, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas, Virginia, and West Virginia.

– Five additional states have bills under review that will propose a statewide tax exemption including Arizona, California, Colorado, Missouri, and New York.
– Adoption strengthens Exeter’s position as a veteran-supportive town and supports military families in long-term homeownership.

-Town of Scituate, RI provides a Scituate Disabled Veteran Tax Credit to 100% service-connected disability certified by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs

DRAFT ORDINANCE

Town of Exeter, Rhode Island

Ordinance No. ____ / 2025

AN ORDINANCE PROVIDING A FULL PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTION FOR 100% SERVICE-CONNECTED DISABLED VETERANS AND ESTABLISHING A THREE-YEAR RETROACTIVE TAX CREDIT

Be it ordained by the Town Council of the Town of Exeter, Rhode Island, that the Code of Ordinances is hereby amended to add the following:

SECTION 1. Purpose

The purpose of this ordinance is to honor and support veterans who have sustained a 100% service-connected disability by eliminating municipal real-estate tax liability on their primary residence, and to establish a three-year retroactive tax credit.

SECTION 2. Authority

This ordinance is enacted pursuant to R.I. Gen. Laws §44-3-4 and other applicable laws permitting municipalities to establish exemptions for veterans.

SECTION 3. Definitions

1. “Veteran” means any individual meeting the state definition and holding a VA disability rating.
   2. “100% Service-Connected Disabled Veteran” includes those rated 100% or with TDIU.
   3. “Primary Residence” is the veteran’s principal home within Exeter.

SECTION 4. Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must:
1. Be rated 100% service-connected disabled.
2. Own and occupy the property.
3. Provide VA award letter, proof of ownership, and residency.
4. Apply annually by March 15.

SECTION 5. Full Real-Estate Tax Exemption

A full exemption begins in tax year 2026 and covers the residential structure, up to 10 acres, and customary outbuildings.

SECTION 6. Three-Year Retroactive Tax Credit (Arrears)

Eligible veterans may receive refunds or credits for up to the past three years of taxes paid.

SECTION 7. Surviving Spouses

Benefits continue for surviving spouses until remarriage.

SECTION 8. Administration

The Tax Assessor shall develop forms and guidance. Appeals go to the Tax Board of Review.

SECTION 9. Penalties

False statements result in repayment and penalties.

SECTION 10. Severability

If any provision is invalidated, the remainder remains effective.

SECTION 11. Effective Date

This ordinance becomes effective immediately upon passage and applies to tax year 2026.

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RESIDENT FAQ: PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTION FOR 100% DISABLED VETERANS

Who qualifies for this exemption?

Veterans who are rated 100% service-connected disabled by the VA, including TDIU.

Does this exemption cover land?

Yes. Up to 10 acres of contiguous residential land are included.

Do I need to apply every year?

Yes. The VA requires annual recertification of benefits, so the town requires annual submission.

What documents do I need?

Your VA disability award letter, deed, and two proofs of residency.

Can I get refunded for past years?

Yes, up to three years of previous property taxes under this ordinance.

Does this affect school funding or town services?

The fiscal impact is expected to be minimal due to the small eligible population.

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TALKING POINTS FOR PUBLIC COMMENT / COUNCIL PRESENTATION

– This ordinance honors the sacrifices of Exeter’s most severely disabled veterans.

– Rhode Island law explicitly allows municipalities to adopt exemptions for disabled veterans.

– Many states already provide full tax relief, including Connecticut as of 2024.

– The number of eligible veterans in Exeter is small—minimal budget impact.

– This relief helps veterans remain in their homes long-term.

– Retroactive credits ensure fairness for veterans who would have qualified earlier.

– The ordinance strengthens Exeter’s reputation as a veteran-supportive community.

John A Cianci

Italian American War Veterans of the US

Commander/Veteran Service Officer

22 Scenic Way, Exeter RI 02822

(860) 931-4711

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EVENTS

November 27, 2025, 1-4pm – Thanksgiving Day FREE Thanksgiving dinner for Veterans and their guest(to include children). Perella’s Ristorante, 311 Metacom Ave., Warren RI – Two sittings: 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM.  Reservations are encouraged by calling the Italian American War Veterans of the US, (401) 677-9838, or emailing itamri4vets@gmail.com. Walk-ins are welcome for the 1:00 pm sitting only. Parking for handicapped and over-75 at Perella’s Restaurant parking lots. All others at 601 Metacom Ave (across from the gym). A shuttle will transport from the lot to Perella’s Ristorante.

 November 29^th, A Salute to Our Heroes: A Veterans Tree Walk: This year’s Grist Mill Pond Tree Lighting & Memorial Tree Walk will feature a new addition — A collection of trees glowing in red, white, and blue to honor our veterans, active-duty service members, police, fire, and first responders. Share a photo of your loved one with us — in uniform or not — digital or physical — to be laminated and displayed on the trees along the path. Help us fill these trees with photos of our loved ones! Email photos to info@TheOldGristMill.com or drop them off at any Red Oak Hospitality location. Visit the Grist Mill Pond Grounds in Historic Seekonk from November 29th–January 5th to see the glowing display honoring our heroes.

January 17, 2026 35^th  Desert Storm Reunion, Tri-City Elks, West Shore Road, Warwick, RI – 3:00 p.m. to 4:30 pm Veteran Social. All Desert Shield/Storm veterans invited.  5:00 p.m. Memorial service . More information and tickets go to https://35desertstorm.org

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VA EVENTS/NEWS

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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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FAQ Veteran Questions On VA Health Care, VA Disability, Long Term/Assisted Living Care/ Discounts/ State Benefits

Veteran Resource Guide – Retirees

Army Newsletter Army publishes a semi-annual FREE newsletter to mail to all Army retirees, Army Echoes. To subscribe:

Call DFAS at (800) 321-1080 or online sign-up, you can update your information or sign up, https://www.dfas.mil/RetiredMilitary/manage/changeofaddress/

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

Army 2025 Retired Soldier Handbook

Access the handbook, here: https://soldierforlife.army.mil/documents/army%20retirement/post%20retirement/Retired%20Soldier%20Handbook.pdf

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Resources & ongoing groups

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Discounts for Veterans

Services

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

Restaurants  

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

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

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

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

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

Retailers  

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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https://www.browndailyherald.com/article/2025/11/brown-to-expand-financial-support-mentorship-programs-for-student-veterans