In a unifying effort to honor military service, Scott County has illuminated its Government Center in green, joining the nationwide #OperationGreenLight for Veterans campaign. This initiative seeks to express solidarity and gratitude towards veterans and their families in a time when the country wrestles with division on numerous fronts. The gesture of green light, a universal symbol for 'go' or 'move forward', is now repurposed to convey a message of acknowledgment and appreciation to those who have served.

According to Scott County's official announcement, local residents and businesses are encouraged to participate in this act of recognition. The impactful visual statement is meant to ensure veterans feel seen, acknowledging their sacrifices not just on Veterans Day, but throughout the year. The Government Center will maintain its green glow throughout the week, symbolizing the county's ongoing commitment to veteran support.

In a related legislative move, the Scott County Board of Commissioners put forth a unanimous decision with the adoption of Resolution 2024-279. This decree formally designates the period from November 4 to November 11, as 'Operation Green Light' week, thereby institutionalizing the county's commitment to this cause. Scott County Veterans Service Director Derek Farwell presented the resolution, which bolsters the county's effort in supporting veterans' affairs.

Scott County Board Chair Barb Weckman Brekke reflected on the importance of extending gratitude to veterans beyond a single designated day. This sentiment taps into the broader spectrum of services, and supports offered by the Scott County Veterans Service. "We have Veterans Day, but it’s important to think about our veterans every day,” Brekke said in a statement, accentuating the need for consistent acknowledgment and support for veterans' contributions to national safety and freedom.