Craven County has illuminated several county buildings 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.
Through Veterans Day on November 11, county buildings and landmarks 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. Craven County adds one building each year, with the St. Luke’s building added this year to the group, which includes the Administration Building, Courthouse and Judicial buildings, Veterans Services Center, Convention Center, and the Tax Administration/Register of Deeds building.
Now in its fifth year, Operation Green Light is expected to draw hundreds of participating counties from states across the nation. 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.
Out of 100 counties in North Carolina, Craven County has the third highest concentration of Veterans as a percentage of population, with 12.8% of the population having served. Craven County Government, through the Veterans Services Department, provides various services and referrals so veterans, dependents, and survivors can apply for and receive the benefits that they earned.
“We thank the thousands of veterans in Craven County for their service to our nation. We are committed to ensuring veterans receive the support they need, and this week serves as a way for us to show our appreciation for their contributions to our country and our county,” stated Denny Bucher, Chairman of the Craven County Board of Commissioners.
Craven County residents, businesses, and community organizations are encouraged to participate in Operation Green Light by changing one light to a green bulb. By sharing a green light, we let our veterans know that they are seen, appreciated, and supported.
Counties and residents across the country are sharing their participation on social media using the hashtag #OperationGreenLight.
For more information on Operation Green Light, click here.