Participate in Operation Green Light for veterans Nov. 7-13

In advance of this year’s Veterans Day holiday, civic leaders, business owners and residents are being asked to light up buildings and homes with a green light from Nov. 7-13 as part of Operation Green Light. This new national initiative is to show support for military veterans, as well as to raise awareness about the unique challenges they face and the resources that are available to assist them and their families.

In my own community, county and municipal buildings will be illuminated green, and area veterans’ organizations, service clubs and media outlets are being encouraged to participate and help spread the word. The hope is that towns all across America will demonstrate widespread support to let veterans know they are seen, appreciated and supported.

Sometimes I question whether such demonstrations are worthwhile and actually do any good, but what I like about this awareness campaign is that its messaging focuses on helping veterans here and now. The program is sponsored by the National Association of Counties and the National Association of County Veteran Service Officers. These organizations provide boots-on-the-ground help and resources to veterans. And I believe it’s at the local level that veterans receive the support they need most, within their own communities and among their families, friends and neighbors.

“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 personnel back into civilian life upon completion of their service to our country,” said Denise Winfrey, president of the NACo.

There are more than 17.5 million veterans in the United States. Post-service housing, employment, education, healthcare—and particularly mental health—are key areas of needed support for veterans. It is particularly surprising and sad to know that veterans have a 57 percent higher risk of suicide than those who have not served. That’s more than one and a half times the national average.

So, if putting a green light outside my house for a few days helps raise awareness and reminds us of the responsibility we have to those who are willing to risk all for our country and to provide them the support they need when they come back home, then count me in. My front yard is going to glow like an emerald.

You, too, can participate by simply changing one exterior light bulb outside your home (and business) to a green bulb that can be seen by neighbors and passersby. You can also share your photos on social media using the hashtag #OperationGreenLight.

For more information and links to resources available to veterans, visit this website.