Information is from the Johnston County Public Information Office.
Johnston County To Launch Operation Greenlight to Support Johnston County Veterans
For Immediate Release: September 30, 2022
Smithfield, NC – In preparation for the upcoming Veterans Day holiday, most Johnston County buildings will be illuminated green from October 3 through November 11 as part of Operation Green Light, a new national collaborative initiative of the National Association of Counties (NACo) to support military veterans and raise awareness about the unique challenges faced by many veterans. The event also helps promote the resources available to veterans at the county, state, and federal levels.
The new national collaborative is spearheaded by the National Association of Counties and the National Association of County Veteran Service Officers, building upon the successful efforts of the New York State Association of Counties and the NYS County Veteran Service Officers’ Association in 2021.
“I first heard of Operation Green Light at our Commissioners Association annual conference,” said Johnston County Commissioner Ted Godwin.
“Displaying a green light is a tangible way to show support for our veterans here in the County. It’s a simple gesture that brings everyone together in a common effort. It would be great if we could make Johnston County green during Veteran’s Day week.”
Commissioner Godwin is one of four veterans on the Johnston County Board of Commissioners.Commissioners April Stephens, Tony Braswell and Fred Smith are the other veterans on the Board.
In addition to lighting County buildings, residents and businesses are encouraged to participate by simply changing one light bulb in their house to a green bulb. This can be an exterior light that neighbors and passersby see, 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. While the national event is focused around the week of Veterans Day, November 7-13, Johnston County residents are encouraged to begin shining their lights tomorrow through the Veterans Day holiday. Residents can share their participation on social media using the hashtag #OperationGreenLight.
Visit www.naco.org/