FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
DATE: 04 October 2023
CONTACT: Diana M Pitman, BSN, RN, VSO, dianapi@cumberlandcountynj.gov
Cumberland County to Participate in Operation Green Light in Support of Local Veterans
BRIDGETON – In advance of the upcoming Veterans Day holiday, Cumberland County Board of County Commissioners announced plans to illuminate county buildings green from November 6-12 as part of Operation Green Light for Veterans, a nationwide effort uniting county 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 (NACVSO), 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.
Commissioner Liaison to the County Department of Veterans’ Affairs, Joseph Sileo, stated, “Operation Greenlight brings awareness to County VSOs importance. They are valuable assets that help veterans rediscover themselves once life in the military is completed. They aid in finding employment, file for benefits, general reconstruction to vet’s lives, and so much more!”
In addition to lighting county buildings, bridges, and other meaningful 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 let our 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. We encourage Cumberland County Residents to do the same!
For more information on Operation Green Light, go to https://www.naco.org/sites/default/files/documents/2023_OGLFlyer.pdf.
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