Subscribe!
RI Veterans Voice: 01.10.26. Gary Sinise’s RI visit, Veterans info, Local events, Resources – John A. Cianci
by John A. Cianci, Veterans writer
Gary Sinise and the Lt. Dan Band Complete Historic 50-State Tour with Newport Performance
Actor and humanitarian Gary Sinise and the Lt. Dan Band achieved a historic milestone on Sunday, September 27, 2026, performing their 50th state concert at Naval Station Newport in Rhode Island. The performance officially completed the group’s decade-spanning mission to perform in all 50 U.S. states to honor and entertain service members, veterans, and first responders.
“WE have completed the 50-state tour,” Sinise announced.
Originally set as an outdoor military support concert, rainy weather forced a venue shift to Kay Hall (Building 1801) on base. Despite the standing-room-only conditions, military members, veterans, and eligible DoD patrons filled the venue to mark the momentous occasion.
VIP Meet & Greet Honors Local Veterans
Prior to taking the stage, Gary Sinise participated in a VIP meet-and-greet with military service organizations, including representatives from the Department of Rhode Island Italian American War Veterans of the United States (ITAM).
During the reception, ITAM members presented Sinise with a large, commemorative dog tag engraved with the letters “RI 50”, marking Rhode Island’s place as the final state on the band’s nationwide tour.
Among the attendees was 104-year-old World War II veteran Caster Salemi. Salemi, who served in the Pacific Theater, shared stories from his wartime service with Sinise. He also expressed appreciation for the Gary Sinise Foundation’s Soaring Valor program, which sponsors WWII veterans and their guardians on honor trips to visit the National WWII Museum in New Orleans.
Discussions on Rhode Island Veteran Legacy and Victory Day
Also attending the VIP session was RINewsToday veteran contributor, combat-disabled Desert Storm/Operation Iraqi Freedom veteran, and ITAM leader John A. Cianci.
During their conversation, Sinise acknowledged Cianci’s deep knowledge of his ongoing national advocacy, particularly Sinise’s efforts in spearheading the creation of the American Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial in Washington, D.C.
Cianci highlighted Rhode Island’s unique military heritage, noting that Rhode Island remains the only state in the nation that continues to celebrate Victory Dayas an official state holiday on the second Monday in August. The holiday commemorates the official end of WWII following Japan’s surrender. Cianci explained the ongoing efforts required over the years to preserve the holiday’s official name and historical context.
To conclude the meeting, Cianci formally invited and offered to sponsor Sinise to return to Rhode Island in August 2027 to participate in the annual ITAM Victory Day celebration, which brings together remaining World War II veterans, local service members, and their families.
For RINewsToday veteran contributor John Cianci, having the opportunity to meet Gary Sinise was a deeply personal honor—a chance to express gratitude to a man long admired for his unwavering devotion to active-duty service members, veterans, and military families. While Sinise was unable to commit to a return date just yet, he graciously provided Cianci with the key contacts necessary to begin coordinating a future visit. Rhode Island was truly privileged to serve as the historic final stop in the Lt. Dan Band’s 50-state tour, leaving the Ocean State inspired by a shared mission to ensure those who served are never forgotten.
More information on American Disabled Veteran Memorial:
The American Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial in Washington, D.C., is the nation’s first national memorial dedicated solely to honoring disabled veterans across all branches of service and conflicts, acknowledging both visible and invisible wounds.
Location within the National Park Service
The memorial is administered by the National Park Service (NPS) under the National Mall and Memorial Parks administrative unit.
- Address: 150 Washington Avenue SW, Washington, DC
- Position: It sits on a 2.4-acre triangular site directly southwest of the U.S. Capitol Building and adjacent to the United States Botanic Garden.
Design Breakdown & Symbolism
Designed by Michael Vergason Landscape Architects, the memorial uses a blend of granite, glass, bronze, fire, and water to evoke contrast, reflection, and human experience.
- Star-Shaped Fountain & Ceremonial Flame:
o Design: A dark five-pointed star basin constructed from St. John’s Black granite. At its core, an eternal flame emerges directly out of the surface of the water.
o Meaning: The star represents the five branches of the U.S. Armed Forces. The combination of fire emerging from water symbolizes the delicate balance between life and death, trauma and healing, and light rising out of darkness.
- Reflecting Pool:
o Design: Extending from the star fountain, this quiet body of shallow water is lined with black granite, precisely aligned to mirror the U.S. Capitol dome.
o Meaning: Designed to offer a quiet space for contemplation, the slow, continuous movement of water over the pool’s infinity edges symbolizes patience, resilience, and personal renewal.
- “Voices of Veterans” Glass Panels:
o Design: A series of 48 large, translucent laminated glass panels etched with personal photographs, historical quotes, and firsthand accounts of wounded veterans.
o Meaning: The transparency of the glass signifies that physical and mental physical injuries are often complex, layered, and sometimes hidden. Visitors can read the words and view the etched faces while looking through them at the surrounding monuments, connecting personal sacrifice to the broader nation.
- Bronze Silhouette Sculptures:
o Design: Sculpted by Larry Kirkland, four large bronze cutout panels stand alongside the glass walls. They depict four phases of a soldier’s experience: Call to Duty, Trauma of Injury, Healing, and Renewal of Purpose.
o Meaning: They physically ground the emotional and personal stories featured on the adjacent glass panels, contrasting the ideal soldier’s stance with the stark reality of war.
- Granite Wall of Gratitude:
o Design: Made of Bethel White granite from Vermont, framing the perimeter. Inscribed on these walls are words from George Washington and Dwight D. Eisenhower, carved by the historic John Stevens Shop.
o Meaning: Serves as a solid, permanent backdrop affirming the country’s enduring obligation to honor those who served.
- The Tree Grove:
o Design: Over two-thirds of the site is planted with a grove of ginkgo trees and bald cypresses.
o Meaning: Ginkgos are renowned for their strength and resilience; their leaves turn a brilliant gold every year around Veterans Day, serving as a living symbol of hope, endurance, and growth.
Gary Sinise & The Dedication
Gary Sinise served as a national spokesperson for the American Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial Foundation during its decade-long effort to construct the site. He was a featured speaker at the official dedication ceremony held on October 5, 2014.
- You can watch Gary Sinise’s involvement and insights regarding the memorial’s mission via CBS News / Face the Nation.
- You can also view highlighted content and dedication remarks directly on the Gary Sinise Foundation Channel.
___
DeCoste Memorial Foundation Awards First Rhode Island Veteran Education Grant
The DeCoste Memorial Foundation has officially awarded its first Rhode Island Veteran Education Grant, marking an important milestone in the non-profit’s expanding mission to support local military members, veterans, and their families.
This week, Alexis DeCoste presented the inaugural grant to U.S. Army Veteran Desjardin Lima. The presentation carried deep personal significance, as Alexis awarded the grant in memory of her late father, Senior Chief Scott DeCoste.
Honoring the Legacy of Senior Chief Scott DeCoste
Senior Chief Scott DeCoste served 23 years in the United States Navy before losing an eight-week battle with service-connected cancer in 2015. A proud 1984 graduate of Woonsocket High School, Senior Chief DeCoste lived by the motto “Go Big or Go Home,” dedicating his life to serving his country and helping others without expecting anything in return.
Following his passing, his family channeled their grief into purpose by establishing the foundation in June 2016. What began as a single $500 scholarship awarded to a graduating senior at Woonsocket High School has since grown into an organization that has awarded tens of thousands of dollars in scholarships, grants, and direct support to military and service-connected families across Rhode Island, Southeastern Massachusetts, and Virginia.
The new Veteran Education Grant represents the latest evolution of this legacy, directly aiding veterans like Lima as they pursue higher education and career development.
Upcoming Comedy Night Fundraiser
Direct support initiatives like the Veteran Education Grant are made possible through community donations and local fundraising events.
To support these ongoing programs, the foundation is hosting its annual Comedy Night Fundraiser:
- Date: Saturday, October 3, 2026
- Time: 7:00 PM
- Location: Italian Workingmen’s Club, Woonsocket, RI
- Tickets: $30
- Event & Ticket Link: Funny4Funds Event Page
To learn more about Senior Chief Scott DeCoste, explore foundation initiatives, or donate directly, visit the DeCoste Memorial Foundation.
___
Landing Zone Bronco Veteran & First Responder Resource Center News
1950 Bronco Highway, Burrillville RI (401) 677-9838- landingzonebronco.org
October 13 , 2026 Sunday 8:00 – 10:00 p. m. FREE Breakfast for Veterans and Guest. FREE Breakfast for veterans and 1 guest, Landing Zone Bronco Veteran & First Responder Resource Center, 1950 Bronco Highway, Burrillville RI. Sponsored by the Italian American war veterans of the Us. Veterans riding mules or horses are welcomed.
___
Local Veterans Events
October 5 , 2026 Monday 9:00 – 11:00 a.m FREE Veterans & Guest, Coffee and Cannoli Social, ROMA, 310 Atwells AVE, Providence RI. Join the Italian American War Veterans of the US at ROMA, coffee, espresso, Italian toast, Italian pastries, calzones, pizza and more.
–
October 13 , 2026 Sunday 8:00 – 10:00 p. m. FREE Breakfast for Veterans and Guest. FREE Breakfast for veterans and 1 guest, Landing Zone Bronco Veteran & First Responder Resource Center, 1950 Bronco Highway, Burrillville RI. Sponsored by the Italian American war veterans of the Us. Veterans riding mules or horses are welcomed.
.
Wednesday, November 11, 2026 . The state’s largest fundraiser for homeless veterans is shaping up to be the biggest one yet. The yard sign is always the majority sponsor, as last year there were 70 in total. Rucking for Roofs and the Rhode Island State Elks Association have been named the top resource for at-risk veterans from the HUD VASH.
___
Volunteer Opportunities Serving Veterans:
Serve and socialize with Rhode Island veterans by volunteering. See below for opportunities:
VETTIP Volunteers are provided verification of community hours, which can be used for required government programs requiring community service hours.
Italian American War Veterans of US (ITAM) Volunteer Opportunities:
Leave No Veteran Alone Program (https://italianamericanwarveteran.org) – 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 the refreshments we provide. Point of contact, Wendy Cianci, assistant (401) 677-9838.
Monthly Schedule for long-term care and assisted living facilities needing volunteers:
Saturdays:
1st Saturday: South Kingstown Nursing and Rehab, 2115 S County Trail, West Greenwich, RI
3rd Saturday, Friendly Home, 303 Rhodes Ave, Woonsocket, RI
Mondays:
2nd Monday – Greenwood Nursing and Rehab, 1139 Main Ave, Warwick, RI
4th Monday– Chapel Hill Senior Living, 10 Old Diamond Hill Road, Cumberland, RI Tuesdays
1st Tuesday Village House Nursing and Rehab, 70 Harrison Ave, Newport, RI
2nd Tuesday– St. Antonie Residence, 10 Rhodes Ave, North Smithfield, RI
3rd Tuesday, Morgan Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center, 80 Morgan Ave Johnston, RI
4th Tuesday – 1st Friday-Benchmark at Forge Hill, 4 Forge Hill Road, Franklin, MA
Wednesdays
1st Wednesday– Eastgate Nursing and Rehab, 198 Waterman Ave, East Providence RI
2nd Wednesday -West Shore Health Center109 West Shore Road, Warwick RI
Fridays
1st Friday-Benchmark at Forge Hill, 4 Forge Hill Road, Franklin, MA
___
Disabled American Veterans Volunteer Drivers Needed at VA Providence
Looking for a meaningful way to give back? Join VA Providence’s Volunteer Transportation Network (VTN) and help ensure Veterans get to their medical appointments with ease and dignity.
As a volunteer driver, you’ll play a vital role by picking up and dropping off Veterans using our DAV vans.
What We’re Looking For:
Active driver’s license & vehicle insurance
Clean driving record
Ability to pass a background check
COVID-19 vaccination
Details: © Standard hours: 6:00 AM to 1:00 PM (flexible options available) – Contact: Joseph Medeiros at (401) 457-3387 or Voluntary Services at (401) 457-3002 to learn more!
Let’s make the road smoother for those who’ve served-volunteer today!
___
Information on the National Desert Shield and Storm Memorial
The Desert Shield and Desert Storm Memorial is a new national monument to be built at the National Mall in Washington D.C.The groundbreaking ceremony occurred on July 14, 2022.
Although we have been constructing the various elements of the memorial off-site for several years, on-site construction has begun. The dedication will be October 24, 2026.
National Desert Storm and Desert Shield War Memorial Act – Authorizes the National Desert Storm Memorial Association to establish a commemorative work on federal land in the District of Columbia to commemorate and honor those who, as members of the Armed Forces, served on active duty in support of Operation Desert Storm or Operation Desert Shield.
Construction of the Memorial is led by the National Desert Storm Memorial Association, a 501(c)3 organization in Washington, D.C. The association is led by a Board of Directors comprised of veterans who served during Operation Desert Storm. More information on monument go to https://www.ndswm.org/ and https://www.mynbc5.com/article/desert-storm-memorial-emily-bedard-rob-eccleston/69295603
___
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.
___
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 (401) 222-3576
To purchase online, you will be required to certify that you have:
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″ ³ ¨Providence, RI 02908 – Phone: 401-222-3576
Learn more about FREE Rhode Island Hunting , Fishing, State Parks, and Golf Benefits for Service Members and Veterans
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: 401-6676200, Email: [email protected]
___
VETERAN 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– 1stâ€and 3rd Monday of the month from 2:30 – 4:00 pm.
___
Discounts for Veterans
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 Youâ€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 Youâ€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.
___
If you are a retailer and or a veteran aware of a business not listed above, please forward to: [email protected]; 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, [email protected], ITAM Office (401) 677-9VET (9838)
___
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.
John’s column, RI Veterans Voice appears in RINewsToday every Thursday: https://rinewstoday.com/john-a-cianci/