The Rio Grande Valley State Veterans Cemetery sign has 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 4 through 11, 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 third 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 inside or outside their home to a green bulb. By shining a green light, we let our veterans know that they are seen, appreciated, and supported, and we open up conversation about the needs of veterans and the services that support veteran communities.

Counties and residents across the country are sharing their participation on social media using the hashtag #OperationGreenLight. For more information on Operation Green Light, visit https://www.naco.org/program/operation-green-light-veterans.