Hamilton County is lighting up in support of our military veterans this Veterans Day, with a powerful message of gratitude sent out by county commissioners who've planned to illuminate public buildings in green from November 4-11. Partaking in the nationwide Operation Green Light for Veterans, the initiative highlights veterans' ongoing challenges and aims to connect them with available resources at various government levels. This year's event marks the third annual observance, according to an announcement from the county reported by the Hamilton County government website.
Building on the efforts that started in 2021 with New York State's associations, over 300 counties jumped on board last year, showcasing a unity spanning across the United States. "Hamilton County has a proud history of serving our Veterans including our recent and first-ever Veterans Appreciation Day at Great American Ballpark where over 3,000 people, veterans and their loved ones, found direct access to resources and services," President of the Board of County Commissioners Alicia Reece illuminated, with pride beaming in her statement obtained by the Hamilton County government website.
Reflecting on the symbolic green light effort, Commissioner Denise Driehaus told the same source from the Hamilton County government website, "By lighting up our county buildings, we’re showing our support for those who have served and sacrificed for our country." Commissioner Stephanie Summerow Dumas further emphasized the initiative's more profound significance, noting that it's not just about an aesthetic display but casting a light on veterans' sacrifices and supporting them with rightful resources and opportunities.
The movement extends beyond governmental structures, encouraging residents and businesses to replace one of their light bulbs with a green one. This simple act serves as a beacon of recognition and support for veterans, fostering dialogue surrounding their needs and the services to improve veterans' lives. "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 hold for their service and sacrifices," shared NACo Executive Director Matthew Chase, shedding light on the collective act of appreciation, illuminated on the Hamilton County government website.
As green lights dazzle across Hamilton County and throughout the nation, participants are sharing their support on social platforms, tethered by the hashtag #OperationGreenLight. Click here for more information on how to engage with the initiative and signal support for our veterans.
