The following is from Alachua County Veteran Services Director Kim Davis (USN, FLARNG).
Each year, our nation comes together on Veterans Day to honor and celebrate the hundreds of thousands of brave Americans who have served our country in uniform.
Now more than ever, our Veterans need our support. In a time when our country is divided on many issues, we can all agree that those who risked everything to protect our country and our way of life deserve our support and gratitude.
That’s why this year, Alachua County is again joining with our colleagues nationwide to participate in Operation Green Light for Veterans, an initiative designed to shine a light on the service of our Veterans and their families.
With the need for the safety and security of our nation comes the responsibility to support and serve the Veterans who sacrificed on our behalf. Unfortunately, too many Veterans still struggle with civilian life.
Veteran suicides have claimed over 30,000 lives since 2001—four times more than U.S. military personnel who died in combat in Iraq and Afghanistan. As a nation, we must do a better job of helping these brave men and women recover.
As part of “Operation Green Light for Veterans,” we are illuminating multiple county buildings green beginning on November 6, 2023, and we encourage individuals and businesses to join us by changing one light bulb in the entryway of your house or business to a green bulb. Shining a green light lets Veterans know they are seen, appreciated, and supported.
While this event is focused on the week of Veterans Day (November 6-12), we hope it sparks conversation and encourages support and appreciation for America's Veterans year-round.
Operation Green Light is also an opportunity to raise awareness of the resources available to Veterans and their families. Here in Alachua County, we’re proud to serve the approximately 20,000 Veterans and their families through Alachua County Veteran Services.
Our Veteran Service Team connects our Veterans to federal, state, county, and community resources and benefits throughout the year. We encourage Veterans and family members to learn more about available services at Alachua County Veteran Services by calling 352-264-6740.
Participate in Operation Green Light this Veterans Day and join us in shining a light of hope and support for our Veterans.
