Polk County announced today (Monday, November 6) that Polk County Buildings have been illuminated green as part of Operation Green Light for Veterans, a nationwide effort by counties, the National Association of Counties (NACo), and the National Association of County Veterans Service Officers.
From November 6-12, county buildings and landmarks across the country will be illuminated green to show support for veterans and raise awareness around 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 expected to draw hundreds of counties to participate. The county role in administering services for veterans includes County Veterans Service Officers helping fellow former service members access more than $52 billion in federal health, disability, and compensation benefits each year, as well as other services supporting the approximately 200,000 service members who transition into civilian communities annually.
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.
Counties and residents across the country are sharing their participation on social media using the hashtag #OperationGreenLight.
The American Legion Auxiliary, VFW Auxiliary, and DAV Auxiliary have purchased green light bulbs, and they are available at the Golden Link at no charge—one per household until they are gone.
For more information on Operation Green Light, click here.
