Madison County is showing its support for veterans by illuminating the Madison County Courthouse in green from November 4 to 11, 2023. This initiative, part of the nationwide Operation Green Light, aims to raise awareness of the challenges faced by military veterans and highlight available resources.
Operation Green Light began in 2021 through a collaboration involving the New York State Association of Counties (NYSAC), the NYS County Executives’ Association, and the NYS County Veteran Service Officers’ Association. The campaign has expanded nationally since the National Association of Counties (NACo) adopted it in 2022. Madison County is participating for the fifth consecutive year.
Community Participation and Support
According to James J. Cunningham, Chairman of the Madison County Board, “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.” He emphasized the importance of recognizing the service of veterans and expressed gratitude for their sacrifices.
In addition to the courthouse lighting, Madison County encourages local municipalities, businesses, and residents to join the effort by changing one light to a green bulb. This could be an exterior light visible to the community or an interior light that can spark conversations about veteran support.
Residents are also encouraged to reach out to veterans they may know, offering assistance with tasks such as transportation to medical appointments or simply providing companionship. By illuminating a green light, community members can convey to veterans that they are seen, appreciated, and supported.
Connecting Veterans with Resources
The initiative is not limited to the week surrounding Veterans Day. Participants are encouraged to continue showing their support year-round. Social media users can share their involvement in the campaign using the hashtag #OperationGreenLight.
Ron Raymer, Director of the Madison County Veterans Service Agency, highlighted the importance of the initiative, stating, “Operation Green Light is a great opportunity to send a strong and highly visible message to both the veteran community and active-duty service members alike.” He emphasized the county’s commitment to providing a network of services designed to assist veterans during their transition back home.
For veterans or individuals who know veterans needing 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 resources.
To learn more about Operation Green Light, visit www.naco.org/operationgreenlight, www.nysac.org/operationgreenlight, or the Madison County website.
