Oct 27, 2022
BATAVIA — Genesee County turned its attention Wednesday to honoring veterans with an Operation Green Light announcement it made and a resolution legislators later passed that evening.
The county announced that the Old Courthouse will be illuminated green from Nov. 6-12 as part of Operation Green Light, a nationwide push to support veterans and raise awareness about the challenges faced by many veterans.
“Operation Green Light also focuses on sharing resources that are available at the county, state and federal level to assist veterans and their families,” the county said in a press release.
The New York State Association of Counties and state County Veteran Service Officers’ Association developed Operation Green Light in 2021 and the National Association of Counties and National Association of County Veteran Service Officers adopted it this year.
“We want to make sure our veterans and their families know that their service mattered, that we are grateful for their sacrifices, and that it is now our turn to make sure they are served by their county government and our community,” the county said.
The county encouraged residents and businesses to demonstrate show their support by changing an entryway light bulb to a green bulb. By shining a green light, we let veterans know that they are seen, appreciated, and supported. Participants are encouraged to continue shining the light year-round and to share photos and messages on social media using -OperationGreenLight
At its regular meeting, the Legislature passed a resolution declaring October through Veterans Day, Nov. 11, a time to salute and honor the service and sacrifice of our men and women in uniform making the transition from active service to civilian life.
“Studies indicate that 44% to 72% of service members experience high levels of stress during transition from military to civilian life. Active military service members transitioning from military service are at a high risk for suicide during their first year after military service,” the resolution stated.
Legislator Gary Maha said this was the second year the Legislature approved a similar resolution.
“I think. in my mind, being a veteran, we should do everything we can in order to support veterans, especially here in Genesee County,” he said.
Livingston County is also participating in Operation Green Light, asking residents to display a green light bulb in their home or place of business through Nov. 13.
