RI Veterans: Did you know? 30.11.23 (Army Navy game details, events, healthcare..) – John A. Cianci

by John A. Cianci, contributing writer on Veterans issues

Did you know Army-Navy played it first game in 1890 after Cadet Dennis Michie accepted a challenge by a group of midshipmen to a pickup game between Navy and the newly formed West Point team?

Did you know the teams have played 123 times, uninterrupted, since 1930? Navy leads the series 62-54-7 ties.

Did you know the nickname for a midshipman is a  Royal Navy slang, a midshipman is sometimes referred to as a “snotty”. Two popular stories give origins for the term: the first claims that it arose from a shortage of handkerchiefs among midshipmen, who would consequently use their sleeves to wipe their noses.

Did you know the undefeated 1945 Army team was one of the strongest of all time, as during World War II, loose player transfer rules allowed service academies to assemble many of the nation’s best players?

Did you know for many years Army’s teams were known as the “Cadets”?

The academy’s football team was nicknamed “The Black Knights of the Hudson” due to the black color of its uniforms. In 1999, Army adopted “Black Knights” as its official nickname in all sports. They may also use “Cadets” in certain circumstances.

Did you know Joseph Cardona, New England Patriots, long snapper for New England Patriot, is a  graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, Cardona is also an officer in the U.S. Naval Reserve holding the rank of Lieutenant. Cardona was drafted in the fifth round of the 2015 NFL draft.

Did you know Joseph Cardona resigned  with the Patriots in 2023, a four year extension worth $6.3 million, making him the highest-paid long snapper?

Joseph Cardona, NE Patriot long snapper, with two of Army football captains at yesterday’s media reception event at Gillette Stadium

Video of taping of interview of Joe Cardona by RINEWSTODAY, John Cianci:

https://www.facebook.com/john.cianci.7/videos/946575120318251

Three Times A Charm; Army-Navy Tickets More In Demand Than Taylor Swift 

Patriots owner Robert Kraft had previously bid twice to host the iconic game, but the third time was the charm. His efforts to host the Army-Navy game was described as relentless. 

Kraft’s passion to bring America’s game to the area was rewarded in 2022 when it was announced the Army-Navy game would be rotated across different cities like never before, and Foxborough-Gillette Stadium would be the first of five rivalry games from 2023 to 2027.

The Dec. 9, 2023 game will be the first time the historic rivalry is played in Massachusetts. It will be hosted in the Boston area in conjunction with the 250th anniversary of the Boston Tea Party. 

At a news conference yesterday, Robert Kraft’s son, Patriots President Jonathan Kraft said, “Ticket demand for this is greater than any AFC Championship game that we have hosted here, greater than Taylor Swift, greater than anything else we’ve ever seen.”

Army West Point’s Lt. Gen. Steven Gilland, Superintendent of U.S Military Academy at West Point NY said that while the players are on rival teams, they share an important bond. Gilland describes the uniqueness of this game to any other. Months after the game, the cadets and midshipman would serve on one team, side by side, as members of the America team, the armed forces. 

“It’s pretty powerful,” Gilland said.

Unlike any other rivalry in sports, after the game,  no matter who wins and losses, all the players, coaches, and fans, all come together as one team – America’s team. 

Bitter-Sweet Ending For Seniors

For the seniors on the field, the Army-Navy game will be their last game. One of the Army’s players, is one of the captains of the Army football team, Jimmy Ciarlo. He told RINEWSTODAY although this is more likely his last game, he is fulfilling a dream. 

Ciarlo is from Montvale NJ. He attended St. Joseph Regional. As a third grader Ciarlo when asked about what he wanted to be growing up, he said, “a football player – and in the Army”.

With all the vowels in his name, RINEWSTODAY asked him while interviewing if he had Italian heritage, which he responded “part Italian.”

He lived 45 minutes from West Point. After his father took him to his first Army football’s 2018 season opener against temple, Ciarlo was hooked on the academy. He was offered the opportunity to attend the academy, and patiently awaited the opportunity to commit. When the window to commit was allowed, he immediately committed to the academy.  

Ciarlo described the importance of the game and the commitment by his teammates to play hard until the very end. Winning meant so much not only to the players, but so many fans, family, supporters, and past and present members of the U.S. Army.

Ciarlo does not know his branch assigned; however, he suspects it will be his first choice, infantry.

For those of the thousands who have been unable to secure tickets for the game on December 9th, I suggest you find a location near Gillette Stadium to witness the opening ceremonies. The ceremonies (weather permitting), and more than likely, will include a flyover of fighter jets and air attack helicopters, along with the traditional parachuting competition between the Army Rangers and Navy Seals. 

History will be made on December 9, 2023 in Foxborough Massachusetts at Gillette Stadium. New England owes this opportunity to witness history in the making to Robert Kraft. He never gave up after two attempts failed to be awarded hosting the greatest rivalry in sports – Army-Navy football. Third time was a charm for Robert Kraft. Mission accomplished! We’re there to bring you a report for RINewsToday on December 9th.

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VA Benefit Information (must read if you are over 65)

Services Available to All Veterans Eligible and Registered With VA Healthcare

If you think you have good enough insurance and not worth attending a minimum of an annual physical with the VA, you not only are denying yourself of the best over 65 healthcare to keep a veteran and or spouse living at home. In addition, and if you’re an eligible veteran and not using the VA, you are hurting other veterans who are using the veterans administration.

So many veterans are being forced into nursing homes because of private insurance denying additional rehabilitative services. Sadly, their families reach out for help from the VA, however, if the veteran has not registered and using VA health care for at least an annual physical, it could take a month or two months to get registered and see a VA provider who can evaluate and sign off on numerous programs under VA In Home and Support Services. If the veteran was registered and using VA health care, approval could happen the same day for needed outside community care for the veteran.

In closing, if you are not a veteran who has registered for the VA and at least going to an annual physical at the VA, you are hurting other veterans and possibly your spouse when they might need services to assist you in having keeping you loved one live at home instead of a nursing home.

Simply put, register with the VA!

Here are options: 

Option 1: Apply by phone

Call our toll-free hotline at 877-222-8387, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. ET to get help with your application.

Option 2: Apply by mail

Fill out an Application for Health Benefits (VA Form 10-10EZ).

Get VA Form 10-10EZ to download

You or someone acting as your power of attorney must sign and date the form. And:

• If you’re using a power of attorney, you’ll need to submit a copy of the Power of Attorney form along with your application.
• If you sign with an “X,” 2 people you know must witness your signature. They’ll also need to sign and print their names on the form.

Send your completed application here:

Health Eligibility Center
2957 Clairmont Rd., Suite 200
Atlanta, GA 30329

Option 3: Apply in person

Fill out an Application for Health Benefits (VA Form 10-10EZ).

By registering with VA healthcare, the veteran and spouse could be eligible for  one or more of the following benefits:

VA benefits for 65 and or veterans who need services:

VA In-Home and Support Services

VA – Home & Community Based Services

Below are home and community-based services available through VA to support eligible Veterans and their caregivers. Caregivers who are interested in learning about these services should contact VA’s Caregiver Support Line: 1-855-260-3274 (Monday–Friday 8a to 10p EST/Saturday 8a to 5p EST) or their Caregiver Support Coordinator (CSC) for more information.

Veteran Decision Aid Tool
Use the Veteran Decision Aid Tool (PDF) to help you figure out what home care services or long term care services may best meet your needs now or in the future.

Home-Based Primary Care (HBPC)
Home-Based Primary Care (HBPC) is a program designed to deliver routine health care services to your home when the Veteran you care for has medical issues that make it challenging for him or her to travel. Home-Based Primary Care is staffed with medical professionals who will come to your home. Some of their services are primary care and nursing, managing medication, and helping plan and put together nutritious and tasty meals. Home-Based Primary Care can also include physical rehabilitation, mental health care for your Veteran, social work and referrals to VA and community services. This program can help ease the worry and stress of having to bring a Veteran to and from a VA medical center for routine medical appointments.  https://www.va.gov/GERIATRICS/pages/Home_Based_Primary_Care.asp

Home Hospice Care
During the advanced stages of a terminal disease, Home Hospice Care can offer comfort and supportive services for you and the Veteran you care for in your own home. An interdisciplinary team of health care providers and volunteers from a local community hospice agency is there for you 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Grief counseling is also available for you and other immediate family members. https://www.va.gov/GERIATRICS/pages/Hospice_Care.asp

Homemaker and Home Health Aides
Feeding and bathing another person can be very stressful, physically tasking, and time-consuming for you. Often times, taking care of a Veteran’s needs leaves no time for you to take care of your own needs. The Homemaker and Home Health Aide Program is designed to help a Veteran with personal care needs. Your local VA medical center can help arrange for a home health aide who will come to your home on a regular schedule to allow you time to take care of your own needs. Caring for yourself helps you stay strong for yourself and the Veteran you care for.  https://www.va.gov/GERIATRICS/pages/Homemaker_and_Home_Health_Aide_Care.asp

Home Telehealth
We know how difficult or challenging it can be to get the Veteran you care for to a VA medical center for assistance. The Home Telehealth program is designed to give you ready access to a care coordinator by using technology (e.g., telephone, computers) in your home. The Home Telehealth program enhances and extends care management to you, the Family Caregiver. Home Telehealth services can also include education and training or online and telephone support groups. Please contact your Caregiver Support Coordinator to discuss which telehealth programs are available at your VA.  https://telehealth.va.gov/type/home

Remote Monitoring Care
Remote Monitoring is a service that allows the Veteran’s physician or nurse to monitor the Veteran’s medical condition remotely using home monitoring equipment. https://www.va.gov/GERIATRICS/pages/Telehealth.asp

Respite Care
As a Family Caregiver, it can be hard to find time for a much-needed break from your daily routine and care responsibilities so that you have some time for yourself. Respite is time for relaxing and renewing your own energy, and respite care can provide you with the time to do that. If a Veteran requires a Caregiver, you are eligible to receive up to 30 days of respite care per year. The care can be offered in a variety of settings including at your home or through temporary placement of a Veteran at a VA Community Living Center, a VA-contracted Community Residential Care Facility, or an Adult Day Health Care Center. Respite care may also be provided in response to a Family Caregiver’s unexpected hospitalization, a need to go out of town, or a family emergency. Staying strong for your Veteran means staying strong yourself. By taking an opportunity to be refreshed through respite care, you may be amazed at how your fresh outlook will help you and your Veteran. Respite Care – Geriatrics and Extended Care (va.gov)

Skilled Home Care
The Skilled Home Care service provides a medical professional who comes to your home to help care for a homebound Veteran. Some of the care a Veteran can receive includes basic nursing services and physical, occupational, or speech therapies. To be eligible for this service, a Veteran must be homebound, which means he or she has difficulty traveling to and from appointments and so is in need of receiving medical services at home. The Skilled Home Care service is similar to Home-Based Primary Care, but it involves VA purchasing care for a Veteran from a licensed non-VA medical professional.   https://www.va.gov/GERIATRICS/pages/Skilled_Home_Health_Care.asp

Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) 
The Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) provides comprehensive medical and social services to certain frail, community-dwelling elderly individuals, most of whom are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid benefits. Learn more:
Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) – Geriatrics and Extended Care (va.gov)

In conclusion on benefits, the Italian American War Veterans of US Veteran Service Officer (VSO)  can assist ant=y veteran or family member to register with the VA Healthcare. If the veteran is in nursing home and or restricted to home, the VSO can travel to assist the veterans. Contact information for VSO is (401) 677-9838 or email [email protected]

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Events

December 2, 2023 (Saturday) Comedy Show and Italian Buffet Dinner (Veal/Chicken Parmigiana /pasta/salad, dessert). Dinner fundraiser for ITAM Rhode Island Veterans Relief and Recreational Fund, VFW, Shove Street, Tiverton, RI. Tickets $40, doors open at 6 p.m. Tables of 8 available for $200 to groups. For tickets contact the Italian American War Veterans of US,  (401) 677-9838.

December 4, 2023 Federal Hill Coffee House, ROMA, 9:00 a.m to 11:00 a.m 310 Atwells Ave, Providence RI. All veterans and guest are welcomed to join the Italian American War Veterans of US. For more information, contact ITAM (401) 677-9838 or email [email protected] 

December 8, 2023, 5:30-9pm – Waterfire partial lighting, basin of Waterplace Park, in honor of the 124th Army-Navy Game – Join us for a partial lighting in the basin of Waterplace Park on Friday, December 8 in honor of the 124th Army-Navy Game happening at Gillette Stadium, supported by General Dynamics Electric Boat with additional support by BuildSubmarines.com and the site’s owners, BlueForge Alliance. The lighting will begin at 5:30 p.m. and the fires will burn until 9:00 p.m. 

More on Waterfire’s commemorative event:

“As the largest manufacturer in Rhode Island, Electric Boat is proud to support WaterFire and its honoring of the U.S. Naval Academy’s midshipmen on the eve of their annual game against Army,” said Kevin Graney, president of General Dynamics Electric Boat. “These men and women have chosen to wear the cloth of our nation and dedicate themselves to serving the United States as future leaders in our Navy. We join the people of the Ocean State to welcome them to the City of Providence. We hope they and their families have a wonderful evening and encourage the community to turn out and show their appreciation on this special night.”

Providence, Rhode Island will be hosting nearly 700 Navy midshipmen from the U.S Naval Academy the weekend of the 124th Army-Navy Game. There will be a schedule of activities going on throughout the weekend of December 8-10, for more information visit ArmyNavyPVD.com.

“The Army-Navy Game coming to New England brings a huge opportunity for Providence to attract visitors from all over the globe,” said Kristen Adamo, president and CEO of the Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau. “We know that Providence is a convenient place to stay to be close to Gillette Stadium, and now, guests get to experience some of our city’s top attractions while they’re here. From our world-class dining to family-friendly entertainment and activities – and now an iconic WaterFire lighting – visitors will have plenty to do before and after game day.”

WaterFire will have a special American Flag installation surrounding Waterplace Park as well as a Bridge of Stars illuminated in red, white, and blue. 

There will be a WaterFire Merchandise & Ambassador station in the basin in Waterplace Park, stop by to support WaterFire with a donation or a purchase of locally designed apparel and gifts. Make a quick and easy donation with the DipJar and receive a Ribbon of Light. 

Catch three fire-spinning performances by Cirque De Light at 6 p.m., 7 p.m., and 8 p.m. 

December 8 2023, WWE Tribute to the Troops, Amica Mutual pavilion. 1 Lasalle Square, Providence RI. The 21st annual Tribute to the Troops will also air Friday, December 8 at 8 p.m. ET on FOX.     

Since its inception in 2003, WWE’s Tribute to the Troops has honored our U.S. service members, veterans and their families for their continued sacrifice and commitment to our country, and is widely considered one of television’s most patriotic and heartwarming shows of the year. WWE has a multi-decade commitment to the U.S. Armed Forces, which includes visiting nearly 400 military installations throughout the world, offering all U.S. military personnel free tickets to WWE live events, and has partnered with military organizations, such as Hire Heroes USA. WWE currently supports the USO and tells stories of heroism and valor of our nation’s bravest through the company’s partnership with National Medal of Honor Museum to make an impact in the community.

SEE YOUR FAVORITE SMACKDOWN SUPERSTARS LIVE INCLUDING 
Charlotte Flair, United States Champion Rey Mysterio, WWE Women’s Champion IYO SKY, LA Knight, Austin Theory, Sheamus, AJ Styles, The Street Profits

WWE: https://www.goprovidence.com/event/wwe-tribute-to-the-troops/47490/

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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) via email at [email protected]*** 

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. 

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. 

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,  ID.me. 

ID.me is our trusted technology partner in helping to keep your personal information safe. 

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 or create a Michaels Rewards account. 

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) 

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

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.