RI Veterans Voice: 20.06.26 – 104 y.o. RI Veteran, Events, Resources – John A. Cianci

by John A. Cianci, RINewsToday Veterans writer

WWII Caster Salemi, Member of the Italian American War Veterans of Rhode Island

From our story on June 14 — Flag Day:

WWII Caster Salemi celebrated his 104th birthday at a private function hosted by Italian American War Veteran of the United States (ITAM) State Commander John A Cianci in Harrisville, Rhode Island.

An estimated 150 veterans and their families attended Salemi’s 104^th birthday party

Prior to the birthday party, Salemi led a group of veterans cutting the ribbon at the entrance of LZ Bronco’s Veteran & First Responder Resource Center at 1950 Broncos Highway, Harrisville. Among the ribbon cutting group was Senator Elaine Morgan representing the families of veterans who are serving and have served; Morgan is not a veteran herself; rather, she is the proud daughter of a Purple Heart Korean War veteran. Her father, who was severely wounded and paralyzed in the spine during the war, survived and made a miraculous recovery.

Ribbon cutting ceremony at LZ Bronco Veteran & First responder resource Center, Harrisville RI

Senator Morgan represents District 34 (which covers Charlestown, Exeter, Hopkinton, Richmond, and West Greenwich) and serves on the Senate Committee on Special Legislation & Veterans’ Affairs in the Rhode Island General Assembly. Senator Morgan is dedicated to Rhode Island veterans and volunteers in the kitchen 2-3 times a month at the free veteran dinners sponsored by ITAM organization.

“She’s one hell of a dishwasher,” said Cianci jokingly when he introduced her prior to participating cutting the ribbon.

“Soenksen was manning the veteran Resource Center tent at last week’s St. Joseph Festival in Federal Hill and was wandering off during a break on Atwells Ave., when I heard a yell from him, “Gomes”, said Cianci.

The odds of someone attending a school in Newport and stationed in permanent in Jacksonville, FL  to randomly connect to someone he hasn’t seen or talked to in almost 15 years, to include neither had an idea where the other one was.  who was only in Rhode Island attending a two-week course at Naval Station Newport, to almost bump into someone he went to boot camp almost 15 years ago, in Federal Hill, in between the veteran resource tent and a pizza vendor.

During Salemi’s birthday party the 2 Navy veterans caught up on their Navy careers and personnel lives.

After the party, a small group of Salami’s family and friends visited Bella’s Italian Ristorante to connect with owner Gioseeeeeeeeppppp. Both Salemi and the owner of Bella restaurant, Giuseppe Calapai  are from Sicily.

Calapai and Salami communicated in their native tongue of Sicily.

Honored to have be part of Salemi final toast on his 104^th birthday at Bella.

WWII Caster Salemi having a little wine with Bella’s owner, , Giuseppe Calapai , daughter and son, and RINEWSTODAY veteran contributor John A Cianci

More on the incredible life of WWII Caster Salemi

A cornerstone of the Greatest Generation, Salemi’s life is defined by historic military service, a long career in engineering, and deep civic involvement.

Early Life and WWII Service

• Enlistment: Born on June 14, 1922, Salemi initially tried to enlist in the Navy but was disqualified for being colorblind. He was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1943 at the age of 21.
• Pacific Theater: He served as a Technician Fourth Grade (T4) in the 251st Field Artillery Battalion, Company B. He saw intense combat during major campaigns, including the invasions of New Guinea and the brutal three-month battle for Balete Pass in the Philippines.
• Communications: His role involved crucial, high-risk work laying and setting up communication lines between Army companies during active combat
• Postwar Life and Career
• Professional Life: He moved to Massachusetts in 1972 and worked in research and development for Sylvania Electric Products (which later became Verizon via GTE). He spent 39 years in the telecommunications and engineering field before retiring.
• Local Ties: Residing in North Attleboro for decades, he became a pillar of the New England veteran community.
• Veteran Advocacy and Community Impact
• DAV Leadership: He is a lifelong member of the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) and served as a Past Commander for Massachusetts Chapter 56 and Chapter 443.
• Mentorship: He regularly engages with organizations like the Italian American War Veterans and the Gary Sinise Foundation’s Soaring Valor program.
• Longevity Secret: Salemi attributes his exceptional longevity and health to enjoying what he does, consuming alcohol only moderately, and “good genes”.
• Salemi remains physically active and celebrated in Massachusetts and Rhode Island. He continues to make public appearances, including ceremonial honors at Fenway Park for the Boston Red Sox “Hats Off to Heroes” program, and participating in living-history Pacific War re-enactments.

In conclusion, I’m so honored and blessed to be friends with Salimi. To host his 104^th birthday party in Harrisville RI, like many other veterans, family, and friends, we were honored to be in attendance to a living hero, WWII Caster Salemi, and cany wait to celebrate his 105^th birthday next year!

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RI Veteran New

Assembly approves Felag, Boylan legislation to waive VIN check fees for veterans and military members

STATE HOUSE — The General Assembly today passed legislation sponsored by Senate Special Legislation and Veterans’ Affairs Committee Chairman Walter S. Felag and Rep. Jennifer Boylan to waive the fee for vehicle identification number (VIN) inspections for veterans and active-duty military personnel. “From exempting military pensions from state income tax, to waiving pet adoption fees for veterans to creating special vehicle plates for Bronze Star Medal and Purple Heart recipients, the General Assembly has worked over the years to make Rhode Island even more welcoming to veterans and active military members,” said Chairman Felag (D-Dist. 10, Warren, Bristol, Tiverton). “This bill is another way our state can show our appreciation and gratitude for the service and sacrifice of our military service members who have protected our nation and continue to do so.” Said Representative Boylan (D-Dist. 66, Barrington, East Providence), “Waiving these fees is a small way we can welcome military service members and their families to the Ocean State. Service members often move more frequently than civilians due to the commitment of their service, meaning these fees can add up.” When a resident registers a vehicle in Rhode Island for the first time and that vehicle’s last registration was in another state or country, they must have the VIN checked against the vehicle’s paperwork at their local police department. The legislation (2025-H 5081A, 2025-S 0075aa) waives the $10 fee for this certification for veterans and active-duty military personnel, including National Guard members and military reserves.

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Driving as an Amputee?

For many amputees, vehicle modifications are critical to driving unassisted. There are devices and configurations available to help those with nearly any type of amputation get back on the road safely and comfortably. Some organizations are also willing to provide financial assistance to help amputees purchase a modified vehicle or add features to their own.

Find out more from this organization, Richmond Vona: – https://www.richmondvona.com/tips-driving-amputee/

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Purple Heart Monument Project to Honor America’s Combat-Wounded Veterans

A new community initiative, the Purple Heart Monument Project, has been launched by the RI Commandery of the Military Order of Foreign Wars, to create a lasting tribute to the brave men and women who were wounded or killed in service to the United States.

The planned monument, to be placed in the RI Veterans’ Cemetery, will serve as a place of reflection, remembrance, and education—honoring recipients of the Purple Heart while helping future generations understand the true cost of freedom. Designed as a permanent and meaningful landmark, the monument will recognize the courage and sacrifice of service members across all branches and eras.

In a unique historical connection, the monument will also feature the Badge of Military Merit, established by General George Washington in 1782—the nation’s first military decoration and the predecessor to the Purple Heart. This inclusion highlights the enduring legacy of honoring sacrifice from the founding of the United States to the present day.

The legacy project is also being developed as part of the commemoration of America’s upcoming 250th anniversary, making it a timely and significant addition to the community’s efforts to celebrate the nation’s history and values.

Organizers are currently seeking community support, including financial contributions, sponsorships, and partnerships with local organizations to bring the monument to life. Opportunities are also available for educational programming and public engagement tied to the project.

“This monument is more than a structure—it is a symbol of gratitude and a commitment to never forget those who have given so much for our country,” said Ron Barnes, Commander of the Rhode Island Commandery of the Military Order of Foreign Wars.

Community members and organizations interested in supporting the Purple Heart Monument Project or learning more are encouraged to contact COL Ron Barnes, Co-chair, Purple Heart Monument Project, RI Commander. Military Order of Foreign Wars, 508-958-6781 [email protected]

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Volunteer Opportunities for 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

https://dem.ri.gov/about–us/dem–offices/boating–registration–licenses/rhodeislandoutdoors#:~:text=If%20you%20qualify%20for%20a,that%20issued%20the%2 0disability%20decision.

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 †¯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’s name, location, and military and veteran discount offered.

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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)6779VET(9838)

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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/