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RI Veterans: Did you know? 9.1.25 (Veterans Court, events, resources) – John A. Cianci
by John A. Cianci, contributing writer, veterans issues
Q. From one of our readers living in a long term care facility.
I served with the Marines and spent significant time training at Camp Lejeune. Currently, I am at a long term care facility and Medicaid pays for my care. I am still married. I have never filed with the VA, however, have several medical issues I am told is linked to Camp Lejeune. Should I file a claim with the VA. – Anonymous, RI
A. First, I always recommend that a veteran file a claim with the VA if you believe you are entitled to a benefit. Simply put, file a claim.
Why?
First reason, to receive treatment for any illness or medical condition because of your service.
Second reason, you could be awarded benefits living and or dead, your wife could be entitled to. For example, if your death was linked to your service, your wife could be entitled to monthly compensation by the VA. Example, if your death was related to lung cancer, which is one of the 15 covered conditions for members of the military who have served at Camp Lejeune. From the VA website, here are other 14:
Here are the 15 covered conditions related to Camp Lejeune:
- Bladder cancer
- Breast cancer
- Esophageal cancer
- Female infertility
- Hepatic steatosis
- Kidney cancer
- Leukemia
- Lung cancer
- Miscarriage
- Multiple myeloma
- Myelodysplastic syndromes
- Neurobehavioral effects
- Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma
- Renal toxicity
- Scleroderma
Important, just because the condition is not 1 of the 15, I recommend you still apply.
Does applying affect Medicaid benefits?
Applying no, however, if approved, the monthly disability compensation could impact Medicaid benefit. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation study, nearly one in 10 working-age veterans receive Medicaid, with 40% of them having Medicaid as their only health coverage. The programs have different eligibility rules and payment amounts, so depending on your situation, one program may be better than the other.
While all Americans are eligible for Medicaid if they meet the eligibility requirements, veterans and their survivors are eligible for special benefits from the VA, usually only if the veteran has a service-connected disability.
I have been privy to Marine veterans applying for benefits, and, approved to the monthly disability, depending on level of approval of compensation the veteran became eligible for FREE nursing home care. Moreover, and the monthly compensation of almost $4,000, did not have to be used to pay for long term care, the funds remained with the veteran.
Simply put, recommend you apply since if you were to pass and did not apply, you could be denying your spouse VA benefits she is entitled to.
If you need assistance to understand and navigate VA, federal, state, burial, and any other benefits you might be entitled to, contact the Italian American War Veterans of US (ITAM), (401) 677-9838, [email protected]. ITAM provides FREE assistance to veterans and their families.
VETTIP: The Italian American War Veteran of US Veteran Service Officer, John Cianci, is available 7 days a week, and if needed, can meet the veteran at the long term or assisted living facility.
More information of Camp Lejeune from the VA website,https://www.va.gov/disability/eligibility/hazardous-materials-exposure/camp-lejeune-water-contamination/
Camp Lejeune water contamination health issues
If you served at either of these locations between August 1, 1953, and December 31, 1987, you may be eligible for disability and health care benefits:
- Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, or
- Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) New River, North Carolina
Keep reading on this page to learn more about these benefits and benefits for family members.
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Veterans Courts
(from Access to Justice)
Veterans treatment courts have helped thousands of former service members get much needed help for addiction and mental health problems rather than being incarcerated. But strict eligibility criteria, difficulty identifying veterans in the justice system, and a limited number of courts combine to turn away many veterans who most need their services, according to veterans’ advocates.
Treatment Instead of Incarceration
Hundreds of diversionary courts intended specifically for criminal defendants who served in the military have sprung up across the country since the first veterans treatment court, or VTC, was established in Buffalo, New York, in 2008.
There is one Veterans court in Rhode Island:
VTCs integrate the criminal justice system, the VA, drug treatment programs, community organizations and veteran mentors to offer help and services rather than incarceration to former service members who run into trouble with the law due to substance abuse or mental health issues.
A growing number of veterans need that help, according to experts, who blame that increase on post-traumatic stress, traumatic brain injuries, addiction, military sexual trauma and difficulty readjusting to civilian life after repeated deployments during the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.
One in three veterans report having been arrested, according to the Council on Criminal Justice’s Veterans Justice Commission. Around 181,000 veterans are currently behind bars, according to All Rise, a nonprofit that provides training and best practices for specialized treatment court programs.
VTCs help approximately 15,000 veterans each year, according to Scott Tirocchi, division director of Justice for Vets, All Rise’s veterans court division.
But many of the veterans who most need help aren’t getting it, advocates say. According to the U.S. Department of Justice, VTCs only serve about 10% to 15% of justice-involved veterans. That’s in part because many courts have strict — some advocates say too strict — eligibility requirements.
The Veterans Justice Commission has also issued a model policy framework that includes making all veterans with any but dishonorable discharges eligible for VTCs. And even dishonorably discharged service members would be allowed to participate if they’re diagnosed with a substance use disorder, military sexual trauma, traumatic brain injury, PTSD or certain other mental health conditions defined under the proposed guidelines.
Read the full article on Veterans Courts at Access to Justice – HERE.
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VETERANS COURT in RI (from the VA)
Program Description
The Veterans Treatment Court is a designated calendar for veterans’ cases at the Kent County District Court. The Veterans Treatment Court integrates treatment plans and support with the judicial process. Its mission is to successfully rehabilitate veteran participants by providing the tools and skills necessary to address their unique challenges and to reintegrate successfully into society. The Veterans Treatment Court focuses on veterans diagnosed with trauma-related disorders and provides treatment options that may result in jail diversion, reduction of charges, or alternatives in sentencing. This jail diversion program is also known as the RI Alternatives to Sentencing and Trauma Recovery Program with Priority to Veterans or ASTR.
Services
- Compliance with treatment options and court recommendations is supervised through court-ordered review dates.
- Participating veterans may be referred to the Trauma, Addiction, Mental Health, and Recovery (TAMAR) Program as part of their treatment.
- Veterans receive peer support through the Veterans Mentor Program.
- Veterans are given access to additional services through the VA and supporting organizations.
Eligibility
- Veterans and military members must have service-connected trauma.
- Criminal charges and history can affect eligibility.
How To Apply
- Contact Carol Giordano at Pretrial Services for information about Veterans Treatment Court or to make a referral. Veterans may also identify themselves to their lawyer or to Pretrial Services at their local District Court. Family members, law enforcement, and judges may also refer cases to Pretrial Services.
Contact:
Veterans Treatment Court – 401-458-5106 – Noel Judicial Complex, 222 Quaker Lane, Warwick – [email protected]
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Veterans Receiving Disability 2.63% Increase
Most veterans should have received an increase in his or her monthly VA compensation.
The disability rates are expected to increase by 2.63% at the beginning of January 2025. This increase is based on the Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA), which is designed to help benefits keep pace with inflation. The official announcement was made on December 1, 2024.
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EVENTS
January 11, 2025, Schofield Armory, 705 New London Ave, Cranston RI, 1:00 am – 3:00 pm, Unit 118 Invites ALL WOMEN VETERANS ARE WELCOME TO ATTEND
January 16 & 17, 2025 10:00 am – 1:00 pm, Career Fair, Rhode Island Veterans Home 480 Metacom Ave, Bristol RI
January 22, 2025 – Veterans Coffee Social at the Warwick Public Library from 5:30 to 7:30pm – Talk on healthy foods and cooking demo with Kathi Masi. See poster (left)
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 , Sunday, 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]
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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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More of the Four Chaplains Story:
The story of the Army four chaplains, from a press release, Army website, https://www.army.mil/article/34090/chaplain_corps_history_the_four_chaplains
— It was Feb. 3, 1943, and the U.S. Army Transport Dorchester was one of three ships in a convoy, moving across the Atlantic from Newfoundland to an American base in Greenland. A converted luxury liner, the Dorchester was crowded to capacity, carrying 902 servicemen, merchant seamen and civilian workers.
It was only 150 miles from its destination when shortly after midnight, an officer aboard the German submarine U2 spotted it. After identifying and targeting the ship, he gave orders to fire. The hit was decisive, striking the ship, far below the water line. The initial blast killed scores of men and seriously wounded many more.
Others, stunned by the explosion were groping in the darkness. Panic and chaos quickly set in! Men were screaming, others crying or frantically trying to get lifeboats off the ship.
Through the pandemonium, four men spread out among the Soldiers, calming the frightened, tending the wounded and guiding the disoriented toward safety. They were four Army chaplains,
- Lt. George Fox, a Methodist;
- Lt. Alexander Goode, a Jewish Rabbi;
- Lt. John Washington, a Roman Catholic Priest;
- and Lt. Clark Poling, a Dutch Reformed minister.
Quickly and quietly, the four chaplains worked to bring calm to the men. As soldiers began to find their way to the deck of the ship, many were still in their underwear, where they were confronted by the cold winds blowing down from the arctic.
Petty Officer John J. Mahoney, reeling from the cold, headed back towards his cabin. “Where are you going?” a voice of calm in the sea of distressed asked. “To get my gloves,” Mahoney replied. “Here, take these,” said Rabbi Goode as he handed a pair of gloves to the young officer. “I can’t take those gloves,” Mahoney replied. “Never mind,” the Rabbi responded. “I have two pairs.” It was only long after that Mahoney realized that the chaplain never intended to leave the ship.
Once topside, the chaplains opened a storage locker and began distributing life jackets. It was then that Engineer Grady Clark witnessed an astonishing sight. When there were no more lifejackets in the storage room, the chaplains simultaneously removed theirs and gave them to four frightened young men. When giving their life jackets, Rabbi Goode did not call out for a Jew; Father Washington did not call out for a Catholic; nor did Fox or Poling call out for a Protestant. They simply gave their life jackets to the next man in line. One survivor would later say, “It was the finest thing I have seen or hope to see this side of heaven.”
As the ship went down, survivors in nearby rafts could see the four chaplains — arms linked and braced against the slanting deck. Their voices could also be heard offering prayers and singing hymns.
Of the 902 men aboard the U.S.A.T. Dorchester, only 230 survived. Before boarding the Dorchester back in January, Chaplain Poling had asked his father to pray for him, “Not for my safe return, that wouldn’t be fair. Just pray that I shall do my duty…never be a coward…and have the strength, courage and understanding of men. Just pray that I shall be adequate.”
Although the Distinguished Service Cross and Purple Heart were later awarded posthumously, Congress wished to confer the Medal of Honor but was blocked by the stringent requirements which required heroism performed under fire. So a posthumous Special Medal for Heroism, The Four Chaplains’ Medal, was authorized by Congress and awarded by the President on January 18, 1961.
It was never given before and will never be given again.
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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
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.