Cape Fear community asked to support veterans through Operation Green Light

(WWAY) — With Veterans Day just around the corner, organizations across the Cape Fear are encouraging residents and businesses to participate in Operation Green Light, a national initiative recognizing the service and sacrifice of our nation’s veterans.

From November 6-12, residents can display a green light in a window or use a green bulb in an exterior light as way of recognizing and supporting veterans in the community.

This year, the exterior of the New Hanover County Health and Human Services building (1650 Greenfield Street) will once again be lit in green, along with lighting at two new facilities – the Health and Human Services Annex across the street (1507 Greenfield Street) and the Senior Resource Center (2222 S. College Rd).

“Last year, it was amazing to see so many homes and businesses in our community join us in recognition of Operation Green Light,” said Veteran Services Officer Betsy Graham. “This year, we’ve added more county facilities to the list of places that will be lit up in green and we hope even more community members will help us shine a literal light of support for the veterans who live in our area.”

Pender County is also participating. In honor of the initiative, Pender County will illuminate the Hampstead Annex, Administrative Building, and Courthouse downtown Burgaw with green lights the week of Veterans Day (Nov. 6-12, 2023) from dusk to dawn. They will also post signs, so the community is made further aware of the project.

“Some of these Veterans came home without welcome and to nothing. Operation Greenlight is so important because it shows every Veteran, Active-Duty Service Member, and their families that their service to this country is important and that our County really appreciates them,” said Director of Pender County Veterans Services Michelle Leach. “Pender County would not be as great as it is without the men and women who served this country.”

In Brunswick County,  the Judge Ola M. Lewis Brunswick County Courthouse and the Charters of Freedom settings will be illuminated with green lights the week of Veterans Day (Nov. 6-12, 2023) from dusk to dawn. The courthouse and settings are at 310 Government Center Drive, NE in Bolivia (28422).

“Operation Green Light is a time we can come together as a county to honor the service and sacrifice of our local veterans,” Chairman Randy Thompson said. “We encourage the community to participate in this annual tradition by displaying a green light in their place of business or residence during the month of November.”