RI Veterans Voice: 08.08.26 – Desert Shield/Storm Memorial, VA News, Local Events – John A. Cianci

by John A. Cianci, Veterans writer

Rhode Island Veterans Prepare to Attend Dedication of National Desert Shield and Desert Storm Memorial in Washington, D.C.

On Saturday, October 24, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. EDT, our nation will formally dedicate the Desert Shield and Desert Storm Memorial on the National Mall. Organised by the National Desert Storm Memorial Association (NDSMA), the public ceremony honors the nearly 700,000 U.S. and coalition service members who answered the call during the 1990–1991 Gulf War, marking approximately 35 years since the conflict.

A dedicated contingent of Rhode Island Gulf War veterans—including RINewstoday veteran contributor John A. Cianci, Desert Shield/Storm Veteran, Master Sergeant(retired)—will travel to the nation’s capital to attend the historic event.

Event Details & Memorial Architecture

• Date & Time: Saturday, October 24, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. EDT (Ceremony starts promptly at 11:00 a.m.)
• Location: Southwest corner of Constitution Avenue NW and 23rd Street NW, Washington, D.C. (near the Lincoln Memorial and Vietnam Veterans Memorial)
• Admission: Open to the public; no registration or RSVP is required
• Official Website: Learn more at NDSWM.org

About the Memorial

Designed to convey both the environmental challenges and the unity of coalition forces, the memorial features:

• The Fallen: An inner sanctum featuring a dedicated wall engraved with the names of the 383 U.S. service members who made the ultimate sacrifice.
• Design Features: A prominent granite Storm Wall, lifelike bronze statues depicting service members clad in chemical warfare protective gear, and a Unity Shieldwater feature.
• Coalition Recognition: Tributes recognizing the 34 international coalition member nations that stood alongside the United States to liberate Kuwait.

Rhode Island’s Service in Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm

More than 3,000 Rhode Islanders deployed or served during Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm across active duty, National Guard, and Reserve components.

The Rhode Island National Guard mobilized four primary units for Southwest Asia operations:

1. 143rd Airlift Wing (Quonset Point): Executed critical airlift support from the U.S. into the European theater, transporting over 6,500 personnel and 161 tons of military cargo.
2. 118th Military Police Battalion (Headquarters): Arrived in Saudi Arabia in January 1991 to command four MP companies tasked with oversee Enemy Prisoner of War (EPW) detainee operations.
3. 119th Military Police Company: Deployed in February 1991 and directly managed three major enemy prisoner-of-war camps in theater.
4. 115th Military Police Company: Deployed in February 1991, operating across seven locations in Southwest Asia to conduct base security, VIP escorts, personal security details, and customs enforcement.

Rhode Island Veterans Connecting at the Dedication

For Rhode Island veterans attending, the dedication represents both a solemn tribute and an opportunity to reunite with fellow service members.

“We are hoping to connect with other Rhode Island Desert Storm veterans before, during, and after the dedication,” said veteran John A. Cianci.

Cianci served with the 119th Military Police Company, mobilizing from Warwick, Rhode Island to Fort Pickett before deploying to Saudi Arabia. The unit eventually relocated to Hafar Al-Batin to support the 402nd Military Police POW Camp. Over the course of the conflict, the camp processed and held over 25,000 Iraqi prisoners of war until the conclusion of hostilities.

Connect with Fellow Rhode Island Veterans

If you are an Operation Desert Shield or Desert Storm veteran from Rhode Island attending the dedication or looking to connect with local veterans:

• Phone: (401) 677-9838
• Email: [email protected]

Remembering Rhode Island’s Lone Casualty: Captain Tommie William Bates

Among the names engraved on the memorial’s inner sanctum wall is U.S. Army Captain Tommie William Bates, Rhode Island’s only military casualty of the conflict.

A Legacy of Service

• Early Life & West Point: Born on November 30, 1962, in Coventry, Rhode Island, Captain Bates graduated from Coventry High School. He earned an appointment to the United States Military Academy at West Point. While at West Point, he was active in the Cadet Chapel and served on the academy’s speech team.
• Military Career: Graduating in 1986, Bates was commissioned as a Field Artillery Officer. He was assigned to the 24th Infantry Division, one of the Army’s primary mechanized heavy divisions.
• Operation Desert Shield: In August 1990, as tension escalated following Iraq’s invasion of Kuwait, the 24th Infantry Division deployed to Saudi Arabia. On September 14, 1990, during the rapid build-up phase of Operation Desert Shield, Captain Bates died from injuries sustained in a military truck accident.
• Resting Place: Captain Bates rests at Woodland Cemetery in Coventry, Rhode Island. His sacrifice embodies the quiet dedication of officers who led their soldiers into the theater during the tense opening weeks of the Gulf War.

When the national memorial is dedicated on October 24, Captain Bates’ memory—along with the service of all 3,000 Rhode Islanders who served—will be permanently honored steps from the Lincoln and Vietnam Veterans Memorials in Washington, D.C.

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VA NEWS

The 2026 Veterans Benefits Guide is now available online

The Department of Veterans Affairs is pleased to present the “2026 VA Federal Benefits Guide for Veterans, Dependents, Survivors, and Caregivers.”

Don’t know what VA benefits and care are available? Not sure which you’re eligible for? The annual Federal Benefits Guide provides information on benefits and services currently available by law and regulation.

The updated handbook contains a comprehensive listing of VA programs, including phone numbers and websites for easy reference. The Federal Benefits Guide hosts a wealth of information on most VA benefits and services, including:

Compensation

Life insurance

Pension and fiduciary services

Education benefits

Economic development and employment

Home loan guaranty programs and housing assistance

Mental health resources

The handbook will help Veterans, service members and their families understand the full scope of available VA resources so that they can make the most of life after service. It provides details on eligibility requirements for each benefit, and because VA serves different generations of Veterans, outlines the qualification guidelines for distinct periods of service to clarify eligibility for Veterans with service spanning both peace and wartime periods.

The VA Federal Benefits Guide is available in both print and digital formats. Veterans and family members can access the booklet on VA’s website, providing instant and convenient access to the wealth of information it contains. A limited number of printed copies may be available at your local medical center, Vet Center or regional office. To find the nearest VA facility, go to www.va.gov/find-locations.

The information in this guide is validated by VA as of Oct. 10, 2024. For the most up-to-date information, Veterans and family members should visit www.va.gov, or go to the specific links provided in this publication to access information on the program that they are interested in, as regulations, payments and eligibility requirements are subject to change. You can also call VA at 800-827-1000 from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET Monday through Friday to speak with a representative.

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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.

 

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Local Events

October 11, 2026, Lindy’s Tavern, North Smithfield RI

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.

October 13, 2026, Tuesday  Veteran Appreciation Dinner, 5:00 p.m to 6:30 p.m., Toast & Tap, 45 Quaker Lane, West Warwick , 5:00 – 6:30 p.m. Lane, West Warwick. FREE Veteran and guest, lasagna or American Chop suey, salad, dessert and more. The event is sponsored by a donation Front Line Ministry for Freedom, Bristol ,RI to the Italian American War Veterans of the US; the meal is prepared and served by members of the veteran organization. More information contact John, (401) 677-9838 or [email protected]

October 14, 2026 , Wednesday, Veteran Outreach from 11:00 a.m to 1:00 p.m, American Legion, Post 88, 111 Chapel Street, Burrillville, RI  – Local Veterans invited to connect with community resources and get assistance accessing VA benefits you’ve earned.

October 20, Tuesday, 6pm to 7:30pm, Warwick Public Library. Living at Home for Veterans with their benefits, to include $1000 to $4000 benefit from the VA to pay for needed services to have veteran remain living at home. Or, for eligible veterans FREE nursing home care if needed.

NOTE The change from 2^nd Wednesday of the month to 2^nd Tuesday of the month at Toast n Tap. All future dinners will be 2^nd Tuesday of the month.

November 9, 2026:

November 9, 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. Need help with navaigating VA benefits, federal, state, VA home loan, VA education program , VA Health Care, Veteran Service Officer/ Advocate of the Italian American War veterans of US is available for walk-in assistance from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m.

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.

November 14, 2026 Mohegan Sun, Ct. VetsRock, 11:00 a.m – 6:00 p.m.

The day opens with a ceremony hosted by WTNH’s Gil Simmons from 11:00am to Noon at The Shops at Mohegan Sun, in front of the Box Office. The Tribal Color Guard presentation kicks things off, followed by remarks from Mohegan Sun’s Executive Team and distinguished guest speakers, with a choir performing the National Anthem. After the ceremony, guests are invited to continue the celebration in the Uncas Ballroom. Whether you’re a veteran, active-duty service member, family, or supporter — Vets Rock is your day. Come connect, discover, and be celebrated! Mohegan Sun will also be offering Casino 101 featuring free blackjack and roulette lessons!* and a Mohegan Sun Job Fair. Military Discounts At Mohegan Sun. Enjoy discounts at more than 20 dining locations and more than 10 shopping locations! These discounts are available to anyone with a non-expired military ID including active duty, veterans and military dependents.

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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

3^rd Tuesday, Morgan Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center, 80 Morgan Ave Johnston, RI

4^th 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

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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!

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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

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Free Help for Homeless Veterans

Veterans who are homeless or at risk of homelessness-and their family members, friends, and supporters-can make the call to or chat online with the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans, where trained counselors are ready to talk confidentially 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Who Can Call

• Veterans who are homeless or at risk of homelessness
• Family members, friends and supporters calling on behalf of Veterans
• VA Medical Centers and other VA facilities and staff
• Federal, state and local partners
• Community agencies and providers who serve Veterans who are homeless

Why Make the Call to 1-877-4AID VET (877-424-3838)

• It’s free and confidential
• You’ll get access to trained VA counselors
• It’s available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
• You’ll get information about VA homeless programs, health care and other services in your area

What Happens When Veterans Make the Call

• A trained VA staff member asks a few questions to find out what you need
• Then, you’re connected to the nearest VA staff person who can help
• What Happens When Others Make the Call
• Family members and non-VA providers receive information about available homeless programs and services
• They can keep their information confidential or leave contact information so staff can follow up
• VA’s Resources for Homeless and At-Risk Veterans
• VA offers a wide array of services to help homeless and at-risk Veterans.

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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]

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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.

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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 â€ ¯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.

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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 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)

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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.

John’s column, RI Veterans Voice appears in RINewsToday every Thursday:  https://rinewstoday.com/john-a-cianci/