Orleans participating in ‘Operation Green Light’ to recognize military service

Residents encouraged to display green lights through Nov. 11

Photo by Tom Rivers: The Orleans County Courthouse was lighted up in red last week in honor of Red Ribbon Week. The dome will be green through Nov. 11 as part of “Operation Green Light.”

ALBION – Orleans County residents are encouraged to display green lights in their windows at their homes and businesses as part of “Operation Green Light” through Nov. 11. The effort is intended to recognize the service of military personnel.

The county is planning to light the courthouse dome in green from today through Nov. 11 as part of the “Operation Green Light.”

Nancy Traxler, director of the Veterans Service Agency in Orleans County, urged the community to be part of the effort. She noted the veterans’ population has decreased by 44% over the last 20 years in the state.

Veterans continue to serve their community in the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, church groups and civil service, county legislators said in resolution supporting the green light initiative.

Many of the military personnel experience significant stress in transitioning to civilian life, and many commit suicide in that first year out of the military, legislators said.

“With designation as a Green Light for Military Service County, Orleans County hereby declares from November 1st through Veterans Day, November 11th 2021 a time to salute and honor the service and sacrifice of our men and women in uniform transitioning from Active Service,” legislators said in a resolution last week.

The New York State Association of Counties is launching the new Operation Green Light initiative to encourage homeowners, businesses, and governments to light up their homes, buildings, courthouses, and bridges green in support of America’s veterans the week of November 7th.

By shining a green light, participants let veterans know that they are seen, appreciated, and supported, NYSAC said.

“We wanted to do something special this year to honor the service and immense sacrifice of all our veterans, especially those who served over the last two decades in our nation’s fight against terrorism,” said NYSAC Executive Director Stephen J. Acquario. “Operation Green Light gives individuals, businesses and government leaders a way to reach out and let members of the veteran community know what we’re with them and that we appreciate all that they have done to protect our country and our way of life.”