Wake County to Glow Green in Recognition of Veterans

Operation Greenlight with heart/lightbulb logo, Nov. 7–13, 2022

Tonight, the Wake County Board of Commissioners unanimously proclaimed the week of Veterans Day a time to salute our service men and women by asking everyone to shine a green light from their homes or businesses. From Nov. 7 through 13, Wake County buildings will be illuminated green as part of the national Operation Greenlight campaign to show support for local military veterans.

“We know how much our community respects our local veterans, but too often that support isn’t seen or felt by our service members and their families,” said Wake County Commissioner Vickie Adamson. “Wake County is committed to making 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.”

Wake County has the highest population of veterans in the state, with more than 50,000 making their home here. North Carolina has a tradition of being the most military and veteran-friendly state in the nation with 730,000 veterans – 80,000 of which are women. The Wake County Veterans Services Office is dedicated to assisting these service members and their families.

In addition to lighting its buildings green, Wake County encourages residents, businesses, municipalities and community organizations to participate by simply changing one light in their building or home to a green bulb. This can be an exterior light that a passerby sees or an interior light that sparks a conversation with friends. By shining a green light, we let our veterans know that they are seen, appreciated and supported.

Operation Greenlight is a nationwide initiative, spearheaded by the National Association of Counties and the National Association of County Veteran Service Officers, to support veterans and raise awareness about the challenges many face.

According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, roughly 200,000 service members face a stressful transition to civilian life each year. Their first year out of the military is a critical time, with the risk for suicide increasing by nearly 50%. This campaign hopes to help highlight the resources that are available at the county, state and federal level to assist both veterans and their families.

Wake County has made it easy for residents, businesses and community organizations to participate in Operation Greenlight. Visit wakegov.com/greenlight to download promotional social media posts, graphics, talking points and more to help spread the word. And, we encourage everyone to share the photos of their green lights by using the hashtags #WakeGlowsGreen and #OperationGreenlight.

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Press Release