The Board of Larimer County Commissioners proclaimed the week of November 4 – 11 as Operation Green Light for all Veterans, who have earned our gratitude and support serving our nation.

Operation Green Light is a national recognition that started in 2021 in New York and is also recognized by the National Association of Counties [NACo] and the National Association of County Veterans Service Officers [NACVSO].

“This is such a great event that we participate in. It’s more than symbolic --- it’s a way to honor Veterans. It really is visible to all our community members as they pass by the buildings in the evening,” said Larimer County Commissioner Kristin Stephens.

From November 4 -- 11, 2024, the Larimer County Administrative Services building in Fort Collins and the Larimer County Loveland Campus building will be lit with green energy-saving LED lights on timers to symbolize gratitude and support for our Veterans.

“It’s great to have the enthusiasm and partnerships in this,” said Larimer County Commissioner Jody Shadduck-McNally. “It’s great to be one of the counties associated with this and use Operation Green Light to literally shine a light on issues our Veterans face and highlight the resources available to them through our Veterans Services Office and at the state and federal levels for their service and sacrifice.” 

Community members and businesses can also support Operation Green Light by changing one light to green inside a home, on a front porch, or at a business entrance.

Veterans continue to serve our community in many ways after their military service in volunteer organizations, local government, businesses, and other organizations.

“We love the fact that the county wants to support this. As in the past, we’ll be lighting up the Administrative Services Building and the Loveland campus on Peridot Ave.,” said Larimer County Facilities Director Ken Cooper.

Larimer County supports our Veterans to ensure they have the resources they need as valued community members transitioning to civilian life. Nationally about 200,000 service members transition to civilian communities each year. Still, between 44% and 72% of those service members can experience e high levels of stress during their transition with mental health issues, homelessness, and possibly even suicide during their first transition year from military service.