Subscribe!
RI Veterans: Did you know? (Veteran plates, Military Caregivers, Memorial Day), John A. Cianci
by John A. Cianci, contributing writer on veterans issues
Question from one of our readers –
How do I get a disabled veteran plate in the State of Rhode Island? John, Exeter RI
Answer – The State of Rhode Island DMV details the requirements and eligibility to obtain the disabled veteran plate, here: https://dmv.ri.gov/registrations-plates-titles/license-plates/veteran-plates
Step 1, to be eligible you must be rated 100% disabled by the VA rating schedule. The 100% rating includes veterans who are 100% rated TDIU.
If you meet the eligibility, the next step is to contact the VA Regional Office, 380 Westminster Street, in Providence, (800) 827-1000, to obtain a special form from the Department of Veterans Affairs, indicating you are 100% disabled according to the VA rating system.
More information on disabled veteran plates:
· Available as passenger or commercial (6300 lbs or less) plates
· Costs for the plates is ZERO.
· You will need to complete the Application for Registration and bring it to the DMV
WWI Veteran Lester Mosley, 96-year-old, presentingFran Cabral with a baked stuff lobster for his appreciation of the care and friendship she provides to him. Picture by John Cianci.
WWII Veteran Wishes Fulfilled
During the Italian American War Veterans of US organization’s recent Coffee-Camaraderie-Connect visit at Friendly Home in Woonsocket, WWII Veteran Lester Mosley was asked if he had any need or wishes the organization could assist him.
Without hesitation, Lester asked for a lobster meal. When further asked, the date and time he would like to have the lobster meal, Lester said, “Oh no, it’s not for me, it for someone who I call my wife, Fran”.
ITAM promised WWII veterans his wishes would be fulfilled in a day or two. A few days after the Coffee-Camaraderie-Connect, Vietnam Veteran Dan Beltrami, Cranston RI and Desert Storm/Operation Iraq Freedom Veteran John Cianci returned to Friendly Home in Woonsocket with the 1 ½ pound baked lobster.
Lester was found in the recreational room listening to music with Fran and other residents. From a distance, Lester recognized ITAM members from Saturday’s visit. Both Lester and Fran were called over by the staff of the facility. WWII Veteran Lester Mosley’s wish to give Fran, a special friend to him, and employee at Friendly Home – a lobster dinner fulfilled; Lester’s satisfaction seeing the look in her eyes when she sees the lobster was heartening.
Mission Complete. According to the other veterans residing at the home, Lester had been telling all he has a special gift for his friend Fran, who is one of the employees at the facility. Moreover, a few of the veterans were concerned Lester had scared away ITAM with such a request. Not so, our brother and sister veterans living at Friendly Home, the ITAM Adopt a Veteran program will be meeting EVERY THIRD Saturday of the month with veterans at Friendly Home.
“The visits with veterans at Rhode Island nursing homes are special.” said one of the ITAM volunteers who visited Friendly Home last Saturday.
WWII Veteran Lester Mosley you are known as the greatest generation – and we THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE!
Bi-Partisan support of bill allowing more than 1 License Plate for Disabled Veterans
At both federal and state levels, rarely do you see bi-partisan support of bills. However, once again State of Rhode Island political leaders passed legislation impacting veterans of lives; a bill that allows disabled veterans to be issued more the one set of license plates and allow transfer of the plates to spouse or caregiver if the veteran can no longer drive.
A few weeks ago, Bill H-5954 passed the State of Rhode Island House of Representatives. The bill’s primary sponsors were Representatives Camille Vella-Wilkinson [D] , Representative David Morales [D], Representative Thomas Noret [D], Representative Julie Casimiro [D], and Representative Alex Finkelman [D].
In April 2023 the Senator Walter S. Felag introduced a bill 2023—S0946, which mirrored the House bill. The Rhode Island Senate voted unanimously in support of the bill introduced by Felag.
Both acts permit disabled veterans to be issued more than one set of license plates, would permit the plates to be transferred to the vet’s spouse or caretaker when the veteran can no longer drive and permits the use of veterans plates on cars, trucks or commercial vehicles having a gross weight of up to 12,000 pounds.
The bill awaits Governor Daniel McKee’s signature, which is expected in the upcoming days.
From Rhode Island Veterans to the Rhode Island House of Representatives and Rhode Island State Senate——–THANK YOU!
___
May is Military Caregiver Month
These selfless individuals provide care and support for our nation’s heroes, who have sacrificed so much to protect our country. As we commemorate this May, it’s important to recognize and appreciate the dedication and hard work of these caregivers.
Military caregivers come from all walks of life and are often family members or close friends of the veteran they care for. They provide a range of services, from emotional support to physical care and medical management. Many caregivers are also responsible for managing household duties, financial responsibilities, and other important tasks.
This May, we want to celebrate the incredible contributions of military caregivers and highlight the resources available to support them. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Caregiver Support Program (CSP) offers a range of services and resources, including education and training, counseling and support, and respite care.
The CSP’s mission is to promote the health and well-being of caregivers who care for our nation’s veterans. By providing support and resources, the CSP helps caregivers navigate the VA health care system and access the resources they need to care for their loved ones.
If you’re a caregiver of a veteran, I encourage you to reach out to Kimberly Cross, LICSW, CCM Caregiver Support Program Coordinator at the Providence VA Medical Center. You can contact Kimberly directly at 401-273-7100 x14308.
In addition, I want to let you know about Operation Connect, a free resource guide for Military Members, Veterans, and their families. This guide provides information on a wide range of topics, from health care and education to employment and housing. You can download Operation Connect for free athttps://rielderinfo.com/operation-connect/.
___
Events
Memorial Day 2023
May 26, 2023, Friday, South Kingstown Nursing Home (SKNH) , West Kingstown RI, Memorial Service. The Italian American War Veterans of US will partner with SKNH for an outdoor BBQ after the service.
May 28, 2023, Sunday, 21st ANNUAL CHARLESTOWN MEMORIAL DAY PARADE, The Charlestown Memorial Day Committee, Inc. announces the 21st annual Charlestown Memorial Day Parade and Observances will be held on Sunday, May 28, 2023 rain or shine, produced and directed by the Charlestown Memorial Day Parade Committee and the Charlestown Chamber of Commerce.
The events are held to give honor to our fallen military heroes. The parade will step off at 1:00 p.m., the line of March will be along Route 1A (Old Post Road) in Charlestown beginning at Compass Hardware and ending at Charlestown Liquor Store. Lieutenant Colonel (Retired), Medical Services Corps, United States Army, Joanne E. McGovern, will be this year’s Grand Marshal. LTC (Retired) Joanne E. McGovern will be the first woman Grand Marshal for our parade, and we are exalted to have someone as well decorated as her serve in this esteemed roll.
Memorial observances will be held during two parade stops at the cemetery at Cross’ Mills Baptist Church and at the brook near Town Dock Road; and also, immediately following the parade, at the Charlestown Naval Airfield Memorial at Ninigret Park at approximately 2:15pm. The three observances honor those who died in the service of our Country, on land, at sea, and in the air, respectively.
“We are honored to continue to bring the Charlestown Memorial Day Parade and Observances to Charlestown again this year,” says Chairman and Parade Coordinator Heather Paliotta, also Executive Director of the Charlestown Chamber of Commerce. “It is our privilege to hold this annual tradition and remembrance, we are pleased to be able bring our community together to show our great appreciation and respect to remember those who have served and made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.”
This year we invite all Rhode Island Gold Star Families not only to participate in the Memorial following the parade, but if so inclined to march in our parade next to our Gold Star Float. Please contact Heather Paliotta, Parade Chair and Charlestown Chamber of Commerce Executive Director, to participate at 401-364-3878.
CHARLESTOWN’S OBSERVANCE OF 155th MEMORIAL DAY
Memorial Day was first observed nationally in 1868 as Decoration Day, established by General John Logan, the commander-in-chief of the Grand Army of the Republic (G.A.R., an organization of Union veterans of the Civil War.) His General Orders, No. 11, stated, “The 30t h day of May, 1868, is designated for the purpose of strewing with flowers, or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country during the late rebellion, and whose bodies now lie in almost every city, village and hamlet churchyard in the land.”
Today, 155 years later, flags again commemorate the empty graves of our Civil War soldiers whose bodies never returned home, their names preserved in stone: W.H. Burton, William H. Carpenter, B.F. Hawkes, Samuel Hazard, Reuben A. Healey, Welcome H. Kenyon, Halsey Stevens, William Taylor. In the same cemetery, beside the Cross’ Mills Baptist Church, lie nine Charlestown veterans of the American Revolutionary War, the War of 1812, and the French & Indian War.
The Charlestown Memorial Day Committee honors all who have made the ultimate sacrifice in all of our nation’s wars, in an annual Parade and Observances. The Gold Star Memorial float recognizes local World War II casualties, and the POW/MIA recognizes those who never returned from war, recorded as Prisoners of War or Missing in Action.
For more information, email us at[email protected], or call parade chair Heather Paliotta at 401-364-3878.
May 29, 2023, Monday, FREE Appreciation Macaroni and Meatball Luncheon, Badgers Pub, 530 Broadway Pawtucket RI, for veteran and one guest, 12:00 to 5:00pm. Sponsored by the Italian American War Veterans of US.
June 5, 2023, Monday Federal Hill Veteran Coffee House, (always meet the FIRST Monday of the month) , 9-11 am. Roma Ristorante, 310 Atwells Ave, Providence (free parking across the street). Veterans and their guests are invited. Refreshments are available, which include Italian toast, pastries, and calzones. Any questions call Italian American War Veterans of US, (401) 677-9838, email, [email protected]
June 10, 2023, 12:00 p.m. at Tomaselli’s at Rosario, Honor Flight Cigar Dinner Fundraiser, Cranston Firefighters IAFF Local 1363, Chuck Pollock and Armand Niquette are hosting a Benefit Cigar Dinner in support of the RI Fire Chiefs Honor Flight Hub . Tomaselli’s at Rosario, 17 Rosario Drive, Providence. There will be an Italian buffet, cash bar, raffles and cigars will be provided by Mr. Cigar & Cigar World.
Donations to attend the event are $65.00 per person. If you, your friends or company would like to attend and support this event and the RIFC Honor Flight Hub please call Chuck Pollock at 401-569-2800 or Armand Niquette at 401-486-4991. Please see the attached flyer.
June 17, 2023, Saturday, Adopt a Veteran, 10:30 to 12:00 p.m. Friendly Home, Woonsocket RI and Italian American War Veterans of US (ITAM) and volunteers have partnered to host a monthly Veteran Coffee Hour for the veterans at the facility.
___
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.
___
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.
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 listed below:
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.
___
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/
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.