McCollum, Molinaro Introduce Bipartisan Resolution Honoring Operation Green Light for Veterans

Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-MN-04) and Congressman Marc Molinaro (R-NY-19) have introduced a resolution in the United States House of Representatives in support of Operation Green Light for Veterans, to raise awareness about important county resources available to help veterans transition to civilian life.

“Our nation owes a debt of gratitude to the brave U.S. service members who defend and protect our nation and its ideals at home and abroad,” Rep. McCollum said. “Operation Green Light for Veterans not only encourages county governments to illuminate buildings with green lights from November 6 to November 12 to symbolize unwavering support, appreciation, and recognition for veterans, but it also helps connect veterans with vital county resources to help them thrive in their daily lives. I thank the National Association of Counties (NACo), including NACo Military and Veterans Policy Committee Chair and Ramsey County Commissioner Trista Martinson, for their leadership, and I urge my colleagues to join me and Rep. Molinaro in supporting this resolution to demonstrate our commitment to ensuring our veterans have what they need to successfully transition to civilian life.”

“I am honored to recognize Operation Green Light with Congresswoman Betty McCollum,” Rep. Molinaro said. “Operation Green Light helps raise awareness about the challenges veterans face accessing services by encouraging counties across America to shine a green light during the month of November. Encouraging veterans to connect to county veteran service agencies, and other local resources will help ease their transition back into civilian life. I am proud to lead this effort with Rep. McCollum to raise awareness – as I did as a county official – about Operation Green Light and support our nation’s heroes.”
 

“Operation Green Light for Veterans is an important way for counties to honor and show support for veterans in our communities,” said NACo President Mary Jo McGuire. “Counties thank Representatives McCollum and Molinaro for recognizing the significance of this initiative and its growing momentum. As we strengthen our intergovernmental partnership to support our nation’s veterans and their families, we look forward to seeing even more counties light up buildings and landmarks in green this November.” 

The text of the H.Res. 750 is below and here. More information on Operation Green Light for Veterans can be found here.

Recognizing Operation Green Light for Veterans as an Opportunity for Veterans to Connect with Important County Resources

Whereas, the United States of America owes an immeasurable debt of gratitude to the brave men and women who have served in its armed forces, safeguarding our liberties and upholding the principles upon which our nation was founded;

Whereas, veterans across the nation continue to face challenges in accessing essential resources that can support their successful transition to civilian life;

Whereas, the National Association of Counties (NACo), in collaboration with the National Association of County Veterans Service Officers (NACVSO), has launched the Operation Green Light for Veterans campaign;

Whereas, Operation Green Light for Veterans encourages counties, parishes, and boroughs across the country to illuminate their buildings with green lights from November 6 to November 12, 2023, symbolizing unwavering support, appreciation, and recognition for veterans;

Whereas, this vibrant and symbolic gesture serves as a visible reminder to veterans that their service is seen, valued, and honored by their local communities;

Whereas, Operation Green Light for Veterans further aims to facilitate connections between veterans and vital county resources, fostering an environment where former service members can access the assistance, guidance, and support necessary to thrive in their civilian lives;

Whereas, participating counties are encouraged to adopt resolutions declaring their commitment to Operation Green Light, reinforcing the collective dedication to veterans' well-being;

Whereas, the campaign encourages counties to engage in outreach efforts, including collaboration with members of Congress, local news media, and social media platforms, to amplify the impact of their support and encourage broader participation;

Whereas, Operation Green Light for Veterans exemplifies the profound collaboration between federal, state, and local entities in ensuring veterans' successful integration into their communities;

Whereas, the campaign highlights the historical legacy of counties in serving veterans and underscores their continued commitment to facilitating access to crucial resources for veterans;

Whereas, this initiative aligns with the core principles of unity, gratitude, and respect that define our nation's character;

Now, therefore, be it resolved, that the House of Representatives recognizes and commends the National Association of Counties (NACo), the National Association of County Veterans Service Officers (NACVSO), and the Operation Green Light for Veterans campaign for their exemplary efforts in demonstrating unwavering support for veterans and their crucial role in connecting veterans with important county resources;

Be it further resolved, that the House of Representatives encourages all counties, parishes, and boroughs to participate in Operation Green Light for Veterans, illuminating their buildings with green lights as a powerful symbol of appreciation and as an avenue for veterans to connect with essential county resources;

Be it further resolved, that the House of Representatives urges its members to engage with their local communities to raise awareness about Operation Green Light for Veterans and to support its goals of honoring veterans and facilitating their access to county services.

###