St. Louis County encourages people to turn on a green light in support of veterans

St. Louis County will join communities across the nation in participating in Operation Green Light for Veterans this November, and invites people, businesses and other government entities to also take part in recognizing the service and sacrifice of our nation’s veterans.

Participation is easy. Whether it be a single green light bulb or a string of green lights, people are asked to display them November 4-11, the week leading up to Veterans Day. The goal is to light up storefronts, buildings, and landmarks in green. People are encouraged to then share photos on social media using hashtags #OperationGreenLight #SupportOurVeterans #StLouisCountyMNCares.

“Veterans are an important part of St. Louis County and Operation Green Light is a simple but powerful way for all of us to show them that their service matters,” said Nadine Wells, County Veterans Service Officer. “Last year we saw great support stretching from the City of Hibbing to the City of Duluth. Even Bentleyville showed its support by lighting its main tree green! We are hoping this will grow from last year and continue to grow for years to come.”

A video highlighting the landmarks in St. Louis County that participated in Operation Green Light can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oR57wAK0bKA

The St. Louis County Board has issued a proclamation to honor veterans and encourage participation in Operation Green Light for Veterans. St. Louis County is committed to making Operation Green Light an annual tradition, ensuring that each November, our community stands united in visible support of those who served in the U.S. Armed Forces.

Operation Green Light was launched in 2021 by the National Association of Counties (NACo) and the New York State Association of Counties. Green is the color of hope, renewal, and well-being, and sends a message of support and gratitude to veterans and their families. By displaying a green light for veterans, people not only bring attention to veterans and their needs, but also reminds everyone to reflect on how our communities can assist military service personnel as they transition back into civilian life upon completion of their service.

St. Louis County is home to more than 13,000 veterans. The St. Louis County Veterans Service Office works to connect veterans with the federal, state and other benefits they’ve earned through their military service. To learn more, visit stlouscountymn.gov/veteran. For more information about Operation Green Light and how to participate, contact the St. Louis County Veterans Service Office at 218-725-5285.