Operation Green Light seeks to shine a light on Veterans' needs

Strafford Superior Courthouse in Dover (Courtesy photo)

DOVER - In advance of the upcoming Veterans Day holiday, Strafford County has announced that county buildings will be illuminated green from Nov. 5-12 as part of Operation Green Light, a new national collaborative initiative of the National Association of Counties (NACo) to support military veterans, as well as raise awareness about the unique challenges faced by many veterans and the resources that are available at the county, state, and federal level to assist veterans and their families.

In addition to lighting county buildings, residents and businesses are encouraged to participate by simply changing one light bulb in their house 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. While this event is focused around the week of Veterans Day, participants are encouraged to continue shining the light year-round. Residents can share their participation on social media using the hashtag #OperationGreenLight.

"Operation Green Light is a simple way to express our collective appreciation for the public service of our veterans," said NACo President Denise Winfrey. "We encourage everyone to join us in displaying a green light for our veterans and to also reflect on how we, as a nation and at the county level, assist our military service personal back into civilian life upon completion of their service to our country."