Inyo County to Shine a Light on Veterans • Board of Supervisors • 10/18/2024

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In advance of the upcoming Veterans Day holiday, the Inyo County Board of Supervisors announces plans to illuminate county buildings green from November 4-11 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 third 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 2023, more than 300 counties participated in Operation Green Light, including Inyo County.

"This will be the third year that Inyo County has participated in Operation Green Light to show support for our veterans and acknowledge the challenges they face on and off the battlefield," said Inyo County Veterans Service Officer Gordon Greene. "In 'Operation Green Light,' the light is green because the color green symbolizes support, appreciation, and hope for veterans, signifying that they are seen and valued by their community, while also representing the idea of 'greenlighting' or giving permission for positive action to move forward in their transition to civilian life. This is a truly heartfelt and worthy effort - and means so much to veterans to know they are valued and cared for - and I encourage residents and businesses to join us in shining a light on and for our former armed services members."

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 inside or outside their home to a green bulb. Shining a green light lets veterans know that they are seen, appreciated, and supported, and it opens up conversation about the needs of veterans and the services that support veteran communities.

"Operation Green Light is a gesture of support and appreciation for the public service of our veterans," said Board Chairperson Matt Kingsley. "We are proud and grateful to be able to join in this amazing effort and we hope veterans across the county will see and feel the gratitude we all hold for their service and sacrifices."

Counties and residents across the country are sharing their participation on social media using the hashtag #OperationGreenLight.

For more information on Operation Green Light, click here. For more information about services available to veterans in Inyo County, contact VSO Greene at (760) 873-7850 or [email protected], or visit https://www.inyocounty.us/services/veteran-services.