RI Veterans: Did you know? 11.07.24 (Cold War, volunteer, events, resources ) – John A. Cianci

by John A. Cianci, contributing writer on veterans’ issues

Starting off with questions from one of our readers:

Q: I served from 1975 to 1989 and made friend showed me a Cold War Certificate he had mailed to him as a Cold War Veteran? Am I eligible for one? If yes, how do I get a copy of the certificate?

A: Yes, Steve, you are eligible for the certificate because you served between Septemeber 2, 1945 and Dec. 28, 1991, as long as you were honorable discharged. For more information on Cold War Recogntion Certificate, see information below:  

https://www.hrc.army.mil/content/Cold%20War%20Recognition%20Certificate%20Program%20Overview

Cold War Recognition Certificate Program:

In accordance with section 1084 of the Fiscal Year 1998 National Defense Authorization Act, the Secretary of Defense approved awarding the Cold War Recognition Certificate (CWRC) to all members of the armed forces and qualified federal government civilian personnel who faithfully and honorably served the United States anytime during the Cold War era, which is defined as Sept. 2, 1945, to Dec. 26, 1991, are eligible.

This is the only official site on which to request the CWRC. This site is operated by the United States Army, the executive agency for the CWRC Program. The CWRC is available to qualified individuals at no cost. Any other site offering these certificates or replicas for sale or purchase are not official sites and are not approved or endorsed by the US Army.

Due to the remarkable success of this program, turn-around time for mailing certificates will be a minimum of two months. The CWRC Operations Team is working as fast as possible to clear the backlog. Please do not request feedback prior to 2 months from the request date. Thank you for your patience and interest in the CWRC program.

All members of the armed forces and federal government civilian personnel who faithfully served the United States during the Cold War era, Sept. 2, 1945, to Dec. 26, 1991, are eligible. Individuals requesting a certificate will certify that their character of service was honorable.  Acceptable supporting documentation for proof of service is any official government or military document with recipient’s name, Social Security Number or Military Service Number or Foreign Service Number, and date of service. Please only send copies of supporting documents.

Certificate Application

To apply for a certificate, you must have been a U.S. government employee during the period of the Cold War. See the FAQ for full details. Follow these instructions to submit your application.

1. Fill out the application (NEW APPLICATION LINK) depending upon your current mailing address. Complete all fields that are applicable.
2. Print the application. You must certify your honorable service by signing and dating the application or your application will be rejected. If you are unable to print the application, you may submit a signed and dated letter containing the same information as the application. You must include the phrase “I confirm my faithful and honorable service to the nation during the Cold War Era.”
3. Mail or fax the application to the Cold War Office along with your supporting document to:

Commander, USAHRC
Cold War Recognition Program
ATTN: AHRC-PDP-A, Dept 480
1600 Spearhead Division Avenue
Fort Knox, KY 40122-5408

You may email your application to the [email protected].

An acceptable supporting document includes any official government or military document that contains the recipient’s name, Social Security Number or Military Service Number or Foreign Service Number, and a date showing at least one day of service during the Cold War era (2 September 1945 to 26 December 1991).

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q1:  Why are online applications no longer available?

A1:  The recent increase in DoD-wide computer system security no longer allows for online application for the Cold War Recognition Certificate. A new printable application form replaces the online application.  You can download the application form here.

Q2:  Is this for real?

A2:  Yes. In the 1998 National Defense Authorization Act, the Secretary of Defense approved awarding Cold War Recognition Certificates to all members of the armed forces and qualified federal government civilian personnel who faithfully and honorably served the United States any time during the Cold War era, Sept. 2, 1945, through Dec. 26, 1991. Applicants must certify that their service was “faithful and honorable”, and they must supply a copy of a supporting document which proves that they served during the Cold War era. The certificate may be awarded posthumously to those whose relatives apply on their behalf. There is no charge for a Cold War Recognition Certificate.  Preview Certificate

Note that no medal has been authorized or issued for Cold War Recognition. The program is scheduled to run until the supply of certificates is exhausted. This award is only issued one time. No replacement certificate will be issued.

Q3:  Who is eligible for a certificate?

A3:  Anyone who worked for the U.S. Government at any time during the Cold War era, Sept. 2, 1945, through Dec. 26, 1991, is eligible, provided their service to the country was faithful and honorable. National Guard and Reserve Soldiers are eligible. Contractors and volunteers are not eligible. Those who are currently active-duty military or civilian employees of the U.S. government are also eligible if they had at least one day of honorable service during the Cold War era.

Q4:  How do I request a certificate?

A4:  Fill out the new printable application and mail to the Cold War Office with your proof of service. An acceptable supporting document includes any official government or military document that contains the recipient’s name, Social Security Number or Military Service Number or Foreign Service Number, and a date showing at least one day of service during the Cold War era (2 September 1945 to 26 December 1991). If you are unable to print the application you may submit a signed and dated letter containing the same information as the application (full name, address, identification including type (SSN, MSN, or FSN), applicant name if different from recipient, and email address (if available)). You must include the phrase “I confirm my faithful and honorable service to the nation during the Cold War Era.”

Q5:  How do I print the application?

A5:  The new application form permits on-screen entry of your request information but must be printed. Online submission of the application is no longer possible. To print the application, you must use the print command in your web browser which is usually found under the File menu. If you click on the File menu you should see the option “Print” appear. Select “Print”, then click “OK”. Due to differences in the different type of web browsers (Internet Explorer, Netscape Navigator, etc.), you may need to use different menu options to print. Consult your browser’s help section for details.

Q6:  What kind of supporting document is acceptable?

A6:  Any document which shows that the intended recipient was a U.S. government employee during the Cold War era will be accepted as proof. The document must contain the name of the recipient, the Social Security Number or Military Service Number or Foreign Service Number which was included in the request for the certificate, and a date showing at least one day of service within the range of 2 September 1945 and 26 December 1991. Examples of acceptable documents include a Leave and Earnings statement, DD214 or other Discharge Paper, or SF50 (Civilian Personnel Action Form.) Please send a copy of your supporting document, DO NOT SEND the original document. Original documents cannot be returned.

Q7:  Where do I send the application? 

A7:   Please submit the completed and signed application along with copies of supporting documents to:
        
         USAHRC
         Cold War Recognition Program
         ATTN:  AHRC-PDP-A, Dept 480
         1600 Spearhead Division Avenue
         Fort Knox, KY  40122-5408

Q8:  What is a Military Service Number or a Foreign Service Number?

A8:  Military Service Numbers (MSN) were issued to members of the armed forces before Social Security Numbers (SSN) were used to identify personnel. The changeover to Social Security Numbers occurred in the late 1960’s, so many retirees who are eligible for the certificate may have only a Military Service number on their supporting document. The Foreign Service Number (FSN) is 

used to maintain records for foreign nationals employed by the US government and who do not have Social Security Numbers.

NOTE: The number supplied in your initial request, be it SSN, MSN, or FSN, must match the number supplied on your supporting document.

Q9:  May I request certificates for my entire unit at once?

A9:  Yes. You must supply a POC with email address and DSN phone number, the name and identification number (SSN) for each of the applicants and the request must be signed by an O-4 /GS-13 or higher. The request must also include certification that all applicants served honorably during the Cold War era. Upon receipt of large group requests the Cold War Office may contact your POC to provide detailed instructions for an electronic submission. The certificates will be mailed to the address provided.

Q10:  Who are considered the primary next of kin?

A10:  If the veteran is deceased, his/her primary next-of-kin (PNOK) may apply for the certificate. If the veteran or federal employee was married, the primary next-of-kin is the spouse, children, or siblings, in that order of precedence. If the spouse is living, he/she must apply before the veteran’s eldest son or daughter. If the veteran’s eldest son or daughter applies, the request must explain that the spouse is deceased. If the veteran was not married, the PNOK is the veteran’s father/mother, or brothers/sisters, in that order of precedence. If the veteran’s parents are living, they must apply before the veteran’s eldest brother or sister applies. If the veteran’s eldest brother or sister applies, the request must explain that the parents are deceased.

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Events

August 2, 2024 – Rhode Island National Guard Retiree Reunion This year’s reunion will be at the Quonset Officers Club, 200 Lt. James Brown Rd. N. Kingston, RI 02852. If anyone knows of other retirees who may not have access to a computer please pass on this information. As always, spouses, friends and guests are always welcome. The buffet cost will be $35.50pp. Cut off date for payment will be 30 July. Checks can now be sent to: Make checks payable to: Bob Antonelli and mail to 9 Hurlburt Ave, Johnston, RI 02919. Questions/concerns, contact Bob Antonelli at [email protected]  – Cell: 401-837-6028/401-996-3764

August 5, 2026 – 9:00 to 11:00 Federal Hill Veteran Coffee House, ROMA, 311 Atwells Ave, Providence RI. Event sponsored by Italian American War Veterans of US/ Dept. of RI. Free REFRESHMENTS, pastries and calzones for all veterans and guest throughout the event.

August 12, 2024 Monday, Victory Day Celebration honoring our World War II Veterans . 2 locations, Perella’s Ristornate, Metcom Ave and Dan’s Place, West Greenwich. The event is sponsored by Italian American War Veterans of US, and will include FREE DINNER for all World War II Veterans and their families. WWII veterans can reserve an entire table for his family and friends. More information contact ITAM at (401) 677-9838 or email [email protected] 

Saturday, Aug. 24: Narragansett Town Beach, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.; Veteran Surf Session by Soldiers Surf. Equipment (surfboards and wetsuits), surf instruction and lunch are provided to veterans and active-duty service members at no charge. Go to soldierssurf.com to register or volunteer. For further details, email Mike Tubridy at [email protected].

August 28, 2024, Wednesday 500PM Rosario Club  ITAM Meeting and FREE dinner for ALL ITAM members and invited guest. Monthly dinner will pay tribute to Rhode Island veteran, PFC Anthony John Sivo, who gave the ultimate sacrifice while serving in the Vietnam War.

Saturday, Sept. 14, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Veterans Resource Fair at Schofield Armory, 705 New London Ave., Cranston. Organized by Ocean State Unit 118 of Military Women Across the Nation (MWAN), the event is open to all veterans and their families. Representatives from various providers, such as the VA, VA Hospital, and Social Security, will provide information and answer questions. For details, call retired Col. Patty Ryan at (401) 369-1280 or email her at [email protected].

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VETERANS VOLUNTEER! 

Italian American War Veterans of US (ITAM) Volunteer Opportunities:

Leave No Veteran Alone Program – Monday and Saturday, ITAM seeks volunteers to meet up at designated nursing homes to meet and socialize with veterans living at the facility. We schedule the facilities 30 to 60 days in advance. Volunteers socialize with veterans and TRY TO SPOIL them with refreshments we provide.  Point of contact, Wendy Cianci, assistant (401) 677-9838.

August 28, 2024, 4:30 – 6:00 – Rosarion Club, Providence RI Monthly End of the month dinner for members and their guest of the Italian American War Veterans of US. Invited guest is the family of PFC Anthony John Sivo, KIA Vietnam in 1968.

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RI Boots to Bushels – Summer Workshop Series

Boots to Bushels Summer Workshop Series started on May 15th and will run until September 25, 2024, Wednesdays, 9:00 AM-11:00 AM. Calling all beginning farmers, military veterans, and those interested in pursuing a career in agriculture. Join us for hands-on learning at the URI Agronomy Farm this summer. Workshops will cover risk management topics ranging from methods to mitigate climate change, sustainable pest and disease management, cover crops and more!

Each workshop is $10.00/per person. NO REFUNDS Register by clicking here. Each workshop takes place from 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. at URI Agronomy Farm – 30 Thirty Acre Pond Rd, Kingston, RI 02881

WORKSHOP TOPICS

July 31, 2024: Weeds: Identification and management and DIY tool workshop

August 14, 2024: Soil Health: Soil testing, Understanding your soil tests and fertility

August 28, 2024: Sustainable Pest and Disease Management: Scouting, pest and disease identification (field walk), management methods, backpack sprayer demo

September 11, 2024: Produce Safety: harvest, wash and pack

September 25, 2024: Soil Health: Cover cropping, crop rotation and mulching

QUESTIONS? Contact Tricia Lourenco Boucher by emailing [email protected]. This program is supported by USDA/NIFA under Award Number 2023-70027-40447.

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Providence Children’s Museum offers free admission to active military families

Providence Children’s Museum (PCM) participates in the Blue Star Museums program this summer. The national initiative, a collaboration between the National Endowment for the Arts, Blue Star Families, and the Department of Defense, provides free admission to all currently serving U.S. military personnel and their families from Armed Forces Day, through Labor Day, Monday, September 2, 2024.

The free admission program is available for those currently serving in the United States Military—Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, Navy, and Space Force, members of the Reserves, National Guard, U.S. Public Health Commissioned Corps, NOAA Commissioned Corps, and up to five family members. Qualified members must show a Geneva Convention common access card (CAC), DD Form 1173 ID card (dependent ID), DD Form 1173-1 ID card or the Next Generation Uniformed Services (Real) ID card for entrance into a participating Blue Star Museum.

Providence Children’s Museum serves children and adults of all backgrounds and from all communities. Its focus is on children, ages 1 to 11, and the adults who care for them by presenting hands-on, play-based exhibits and programs that explore arts, culture and science, technology, engineering, and math.

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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 Golf,  Goddard Park Golf Course Fee Exemption for Totally Disabled Veterans: 

Rhode Island resident Veterans who have a 100% permanent and total, service-connected disability rating from the VA are exempt from paying any fees to play Golf at the Goddard Park Golf Course. For more information call the Clubhouse at Goddard Memorial State Park from April 1st through the 3rd Saturday in November at 401-884-9834 or year-round at Division Headquarters at 401-667-6200.

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 an ORIGINAL DOCUMENT OF THE FINAL DECISION(S). You will also be required to enter the date the decision expires. The Department will audit compliance with the certification and may, at any time, request a copy of the current DOCUMENT OF THE FINAL DECISION(S). Failure to submit the documentation by the date requested may result in the suspension of your fishing and hunting license. Also, Rhode Island General Law 11-18-1 prohibits giving false documents to an agent, employee, or public official. The penalty is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $1,000 or imprisonment up to one year.

Rhode Island Hunting and Fishing Benefits for Service Members and Veterans: Rhode Island offers several hunting and fishing benefits to Service members and Veterans. A short description of each is listed below. Applicants are required to show documentation proving eligibility when they apply:

Applicants can apply online at Rhode Island Outdoors, in person at the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management, Office of Boating Registration and Licenses in Providence (Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.), at an Authorized In-Person Sales Agent, or they can mail applications to:

Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management
235 Promenade Street, Room 360
Providence, RI 02908
Phone: 401-222-3576

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/rhode-island-outdoors#:~:text=If%20you%20qualify%20for%20a,that%20issued%20the%20disability%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:

If the disabled Veteran cannot drive, the vehicle transporting the Veteran will not be charged.

Veterans must apply in person at the Rhode Island State Parks and Recreation Headquarters and are required to show official documentation (dated within the past year) from the VA that states they have a 100% service-connected disability.

Rhode Island State Parks and Recreation Headquarters
1100 Tower Hill Road
North Kingstown, RI 02852
Phone: 401-667-6200
Email: [email protected]

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RESOURCES  & ongoing groups 

Below are all the groups the Providence Vet Center is currently offering.  As this list changes, I will provide updates. Please send me any questions that you may have, thank you for your time! 

***All Vet Center Groups require that the Veteran be enrolled with the Vet Center prior to attending. To check eligibility or for questions, please contact the Vet Center at (401) 739-0167 or reach out to our Veteran Outreach Program Specialist (VOPS) 

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Group (PTSD) – 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month from 2:00 – 3:30 p.m. (Group is only active September through May) 

Global War on Terrorism (GWOT) and Vietnam Veterans PTSD Group – 2nd and 4th  Wednesday of the month from 9:30 – 11:00 a.m. 

Vietnam Veteran PTSD Group – 1st and 3rd Monday of the month from 10:30 – 12:00 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. 

Art Expression Group – Every Thursday from 9:00 – 12:00 p.m. 

Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF)/Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF)/Operation New Dawn (OND) Group – Every Wednesday from 11:00 – 12:00 p.m. 

Stress Management – Every Thursday from 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. 

Low Impact Walking  Group – Every Tuesday from 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. 

Guitar 4 Veterans – Every Wednesday from 7:00-8:30 p.m. 

Monday Mindfulness Group – Every Monday from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. 

Yoga Group – Every Friday from 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. 

Moral Injury Group – Every Friday from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. 

Modern Warrior Support Group – 1st and 3rd Monday of the month from 2:30 – 4:00 pm. 

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Discounts for Veterans 

Providence Children’s Museum Offers Free Admission to Active Military Families This Summer

Providence Children’s Museum (PCM) announces its participation in the Blue Star Museums program this summer. The national initiative, a collaboration between the National Endowment for the Arts, Blue Star Families, and the Department of Defense, provides free admission to all currently serving U.S. military personnel and their families from Armed Forces Day, Saturday, May 18, 2024, through Labor Day, Monday, September 2, 2024.

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

GameStop – is offering a 10% in-store military discount on all pre-owned products, collectibles, and select new products. Available to current and former military members who bring any valid proof of service or when they verify through  ID.me 

Home Depot – Offers a 10% off military discount on regularly priced merchandise for in-store purchases for active duty, retired military, and reservists at participating locations. Customers are required to show a valid government-issued military ID card to redeem this offer. 

Kohls – 15% discount offers for active military, veterans, retirees, and their immediate family members a 15% discount on purchases made on Mondays, in store only. In order to receive the military discount, eligible customers must present proper identification along with any tender type. 

Jiffy Lube – HONORING VETERANS ALL DAY EVERY DAY! – We didn’t want to wait for Veteran’s Day to express our appreciation and gratitude for your service. That’s why every Team Car Care owned and operated Jiffy Lube® service center is offering our BEST discount of 10% OFF as a “Thank You” to the men and women of our Armed Forces for their service to our country. *Disclaimer*- I.D. required. No coupon is required. Excludes batteries and brakes, alignment, and diagnostic services. Available only at 3 select locations: Tioque Ave, Coventry RI – Bald Hill Road, Warwick RI – Park Ave, Cranston RI 

Michaels – offers a 15% off military discount on the entire in-store purchase including sale items for active duty, retired military, guard, reservists, veterans, and family members. How to get: 1. Create an account. Log in to Michaels Rewards. 2. Get verified. Provide your military information to get verified, instantly. 3. Go shopping! To use your discount online and in store, just sign into your account or provide your Michaels Rewards phone number at checkout. 

O’Reilly Auto Parts – 10% discount on in store items for Active Duty, Veterans and families. Last verified 3/4/21. 

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If you are a retailer and or a veteran aware of a business not listed above, please forward to: [email protected]:  the business’s name, location, and military and veteran discount offered.

If you have an event, meeting, other pertinent veteran information, or email questions or help needed, contact the Italian American War Veteran Service Officer, John A Cianci, [email protected], ITAM Office 1-(401)677-9VET(9838)  

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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.