In advance of the upcoming Veterans Day holiday, Lincoln County
announced plans to illuminate county buildings green from Nov. 6-12 as part of
Operation Green Light for Veterans, a nationwide effort uniting counties to support
military veterans. The initiative, led by the National Association of Counties (NACo), raises awareness around the unique challenges faced by many veterans and the resources available at the county, state, and federal levels to assist veterans and their families.
Now in its second year, Operation Green Light is spearheaded by NACo and the
National Association of County Veterans Service Officers, building upon successful
efforts by the New York State Association of Counties and the NYS County Veteran
Service Officers’ Association in 2021. In 2022, more than 300 counties participated in
Operation Green Light. Lincoln County Veteran Services helps veterans navigate the complexity of the VA. They also assist with homeless/houseless veterans, employment services, widow and dependent benefits as well as veteran disability and pension benefits.
During its regular meeting Nov. 1, the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners approved a resolution in support of Operation Green Light, encouraging residents to participate Nov. 6-12.
"Lincoln County is home to approximately 5,200 individuals that served in the US
military,” Lincoln County Veterans Service Officer Keith Barnes said. “That accounts for
almost 10% of the county's population. The simple act of having a green light at your
residence or business will show that you care for these individuals. The support last
year was overwhelming, and we hope you will participate again this year.”
In addition to lighting county buildings, bridges, and other meaningful landmarks,
residents, businesses and other organizations are encouraged to participate by simply
changing one light bulb in their home to a green bulb. This can be an exterior light that
neighbors and passersby see, or an interior light that sparks a conversation with friends.
By shining a green light, we let our veterans know that they are seen, appreciated, and
supported.
“Operation Green Light is a gesture of support and appreciation for the public service of
our veterans,” said NACo Executive Director Matthew Chase. “With hundreds of
counties coming together to light everything from bridges to courthouses, we know
veterans across the country will see and feel the gratitude we all feel for their service
and sacrifices.” Counties and residents across the country are sharing their participation on social media using the hashtag #OperationGreenLight.
