RI Office of Veterans Services

06/13/2026

☀️ What a beautiful morning to celebrate the Gaspee Days Parade! Director Yarn joined in the procession celebrating the burning the the HMS Gaspee —America's first step towards independence in 1772.

06/12/2026

🇺🇸 A huge THANK YOU to our incredible volunteers!

For the past two days, the dedicated team from WPRI 12 has rolled up their sleeves in the heat to clean headstones at the Rhode Island Veterans Memorial Cemetery.

Thank you for honoring those who served! 🙏
We are truly grateful.



If you're an organization interested in volunteering, send us a message!

06/09/2026

Today RIVETS traveled to Morgan Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center to celebrate Flag Day coming up this weekend! Director Yarn provided a moving reading of “My Name is Old Glory,” reminding us that to those who’ve served, the flag is more than just fabric — it’s about the courage, sacrifice, and freedoms it represents.

06/08/2026

Community partners — only ONE WEEK LEFT to submit your applications for the Veterans Service Grant!

Visit https:// vets.ri.gov/reports-and-policies/grant-opportunities or scan the QR code below to begin your application.

Deadline to apply is June 15, 2026

06/08/2026

Veterans and military families — join us for a VA Providence Healthcare System Coffee Hour!

📅 Thursday, June 18th
🕚 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM
📍 East Smithfield Library, 50 Esmond St., Smithfield, RI 02917

This free, drop-in event brings together resources to provide easy access to
• VA healthcare enrollment
• Mental health resources & su***de prevention
• Accessing the benefits you’ve earned
• Compassionate, one-on-one support

Whether you’re looking for information, connection, or just a welcoming space with coffee and conversation, we hope to see you there!

06/06/2026

On this day 82 years ago, June 6, 1944, Allied forces launched the largest seaborne invasion in history — D-Day. Thousands of brave Americans, including many from Rhode Island, stormed the beaches of Normandy to begin the liberation of Europe from N**i tyranny.

The Nation —and our state— paid a heavy price that day, with many young heroes never returning home. Their courage, sacrifice, and determination helped secure the freedoms we cherish today. We honor and are grateful for every Veteran who served in WWII — those who landed on the beaches, those who supported from the air and sea, and those who carried the fight forward.

06/04/2026

Back by popular demand!

RIVETS and Meals on Wheels of Rhode Island are excited to bring the 𝐕𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐬 𝐂𝐚𝐟é back to American Legion Post 43 in Warwick this month!

Our popular event gives Veterans an opportunity to enjoy a delicious meal, great conversation, and camaraderie with fellow service members in a relaxed and welcoming setting. Mark your calendars!

📅 Wednesday, June 17th
🕚 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
📍 American Legion Post 43
662 W. Shore Road, Warwick, RI 02889

06/02/2026

RIVETS Director Yarn joined Westerly’s WBLQ - FM 103.1 and Stereo 1230 in studio this morning for Veterans Hour. He recapped the state’s Memorial Day ceremony and shared updates on RIVETS activities.

05/28/2026

He was credited with steering his crashing B-17 away from the center of a German village, saving countless civilian lives in his final moments and after 80 years, the remains of 20-year-old WWII pilot Lt. Robert J. Barrat from Woonsocket have finally been identified — and he’s coming home to be buried at Arlington National Cemetery.

A World War II pilot from Woonsocket who died when his plane crashed in Germany will be buried Wednesday, May 27, at Arlington National Cemetery.

05/25/2026

Today we honored those brave Americans who have given the ultimate sacrifice for our country across Rhode Island.
• This morning at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, living heroes read the names of our state’s lost during the war. You will never be forgotten.
• At American Legion Post 2’s ceremony, West Warwick High School students performed a powerful musical tribute.
• At the Rhode Island Memorial Day Ceremony, state leaders gathered to remind us the importance of this hallowed day and lay wreaths at the Gold Star Family Monument.

We remember. We honor. We will never forget. 🇺🇸