Madison County is set to illuminate the Madison County Courthouse in green from November 4 to November 11, 2023, in recognition of Veterans Day. This marks the fifth year that the county will participate in Operation Green Light, a nationwide initiative aimed at supporting military veterans. The campaign, which originated in 2021, is a collaborative effort led by the New York State Association of Counties (NYSAC) and the National Association of Counties (NACo).
The aim of Operation Green Light is to raise awareness about the challenges veterans face and to promote the resources available to them at various levels of government. “Operation Green Light is just one small way we can show our veterans how much we appreciate the sacrifices they made for our safety and security,” said James J. Cunningham, Chairman of the Madison County Board. He emphasized the importance of acknowledging the contributions of veterans, stating, “Thank you, Madison County wants you to know that your service mattered and we are grateful.”
Community Participation and Support
Alongside the courthouse lighting, Madison County is encouraging local municipalities, businesses, and residents to join in by switching one light to a green bulb. This can be an outdoor light visible to passersby or an indoor light that can initiate conversations about veteran support. Residents are also encouraged to reach out to veterans they know, offering assistance such as transportation to medical appointments or simply providing companionship.
By adopting this simple act of changing a light bulb, community members can convey to veterans that they are visible, appreciated, and supported. Although the focus of this initiative is during the week of Veterans Day, participants are encouraged to maintain this gesture year-round. The community can share their involvement on social media using the hashtag #OperationGreenLight.
Resources for Veterans
Ron Raymer, the Director of the Madison County Veterans Service Agency and a veteran himself, highlighted the initiative’s importance. He stated, “Operation Green Light is a great initiative and opportunity to send a strong and highly visible message to both the veteran community and active-duty service members alike who may call Madison County home.” Raymer affirmed that the campaign sends a clear message of support, stating, “We stand at the ready to support you and welcome you with a network of services designed to assist in the journey home.”
For veterans in need of support or assistance, the Madison County Veterans Service Agency is available at (315) 366-2395 or through their website at www.madisoncounty.ny.gov. The agency offers connections to federal, state, and local benefits and services.
To learn more about Operation Green Light, interested individuals can visit www.naco.org/operationgreenlight, www.nysac.org/operationgreenlight, or the Madison County website at www.madisoncounty.ny.gov. This initiative serves as a reminder of the ongoing commitment to support those who have served their country.
