Aitkin County supports local Veterans with Operation Green Light

The Courthouse and Government Center shine green for our Veterans.

In advance of the upcoming Veterans Day holiday, Aitkin 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, over 300 counties participated in Operation Green Light.

More than 11% of the population in Aitkin County is composed of veterans who proudly served this country. Many of them came home with disabilities from their service time. Aitkin County wants veterans to know their service is appreciated and sacrifices acknowledged.

In addition to lighting county buildings, bridges and other 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 can let 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.