Madison County, New York, will illuminate the Madison County Courthouse in green from November 4-11, 2023, in recognition of Veterans Day. This marks the fifth consecutive year the county participates in Operation Green Light, a national initiative aimed at supporting military veterans.
The campaign is organized by the New York State Association of Counties (NYSAC) in partnership with the National Association of Counties (NACo). It aims to raise awareness of the challenges many veterans face while promoting available resources at local, state, and federal levels to assist veterans and their families.
Understanding Operation Green Light
Operation Green Light was launched in 2021 as a collaborative effort involving the NYSAC, the NYS County Executives’ Association, and the NYS County Veteran Service Officers’ Association. Since then, it has expanded into a nationwide effort, gaining traction after NACo formally adopted the initiative in 2022.
“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. “Thank you, Madison County wants you to know that your service mattered and we are grateful.”
Encouraging Community Participation
Residents are also urged to connect with veterans they may know, offering assistance such as rides to appointments or simply engaging in friendly conversation. “By shining a green light, we let veterans know that they are seen, appreciated, and supported,” Cunningham added. While the event is centered around the week of Veterans Day, participants are encouraged to continue this gesture throughout the year.
“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,” stated Ron Raymer, Director of the Madison County Veterans Service Agency and a veteran himself. “A message that says 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 or those who know a veteran in need of support, the Madison County Veterans Service Agency can be reached 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, visit www.naco.org/operationgreenlight, www.nysac.org/operationgreenlight, or www.madisoncounty.ny.gov.
