To celebrate Veterans Day and recognize the unique challenges that many veterans face, the Saline County Commission signed a proclamation supporting Operation Green Light for Veterans at today’s County Commission Meeting.

According to the County, Operation Green Light is meant to connect veterans and their families to the assistance and resources available to them.

The proclamation, presented by Saline County Management Intern Farel Otieno, declares Nov. 7 to 13, 2022 as a time to salute and honor the service and sacrifice of our men and women transitioning from active military service. In observance of Operation Green Light, various Saline County buildings will be illuminated with green bulbs to shine a light on the needs of veterans.

“We all enjoy our freedom,” said Bob Vidricksen, Saline County Commissioner and Army veteran. “Shining a green light is one small way we can let our veterans know that they are seen, appreciated, and supported.”

In addition to lighting county buildings, residents and businesses are encouraged to participate by simply changing one light bulb 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.

“I encourage everyone to join us in expressing our profound gratitude for the sacrifices and contributions our veterans and their families made on the battlefield and at home,” said Vidricksen. “Hopefully, there will be a run on green lights.”

Green light bulbs are available at various local businesses including Menards, Ace Hardware, Big Lots, and Walmart.

While this event is focused around the week of Veterans Day (November 7th -13th), participants are encouraged to continue shining the light year-round. Residents can share their participation on social media using the hashtag #OperationGreenLight.

Operation Green Light is a new national collaborative initiative of the National Association of Counties (NACo) to support military veterans.

“Operation Green Light is a simple way to express our collective appreciation for the public service of our veterans,” said NACo President Denise Winfrey. “We encourage everyone to join us in displaying a green light for our veterans and to also reflect on how we, as a nation and at the county level, assist our military service personal back into civilian life upon completion of their service to our country.”

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Saline County photo: (from left) Saline County Management Intern Farel Otieno and Bob Vidricksen, Saline County Commissioner and Army veteran.