Operation Green Light

Lincoln County commissioners have proclaimed support for Operation Greenlight, a campaign encouraging residents, businesses and government offices to display green lights in honor of veterans and service members transitioning to civilian life.

The proclamation asks the community to display a green light from Nov. 4 through Veterans Day, Nov. 11, 2026. Commissioners approved it unanimously during their regular meeting.

Kevin Hayden, a Navy veteran and member of the Lincoln County Veteran Resource Center team, told commissioners that 2026 marks the campaign’s sixth year.

Led by the National Association of Counties and the National Association of Veterans Services Officers, Operation Greenlight uses green lighting as a visible sign of support.

“Green internationally is recognized as a symbol of hope and renewal,” Hayden said. “In everyday life, green light means move forward, and that’s exactly what the campaign is about: signaling the community’s desire to help veterans successfully transition from service and move forward into civilian life.”

Hayden said roughly 5,000 veterans live in Lincoln County, representing about 11% of the county’s population—higher than the state and national averages, according to figures he shared with the board.

Veterans may face physical and mental health challenges, housing needs and employment hurdles during the transition to civilian life, Hayden said. The county’s two accredited veteran services officers help connect veterans with health care, housing and benefits they have earned through their service.

The office also hears from veterans who need help getting to appointments, a challenge in rural communities. Hayden said the county is working with community partners and volunteer organizations on transportation options.

He said the office serves veterans of different generations. Some older veterans, including Vietnam-era veterans, are only now seeking assistance after years of reluctance or distrust of services. Younger veterans are also coming in, Hayden said, though many do not know the office is available.

“Just getting them to give us a call and start a conversation” can help, he said, adding that it may take more than one conversation for some veterans to feel comfortable seeking services. The staff’s own military experience can help build that connection, he said.

Hayden encouraged residents, businesses and government offices to take part by displaying a green light, saying the visibility can spark conversations and show veterans that the community stands behind them.