In the week leading up to Veterans Day, multiple entities are joining Peoria County in participating in Operation Green Light, an international initiative to honor military veterans. The Peoria Riverfront Museum’s Dome Planetarium, the Murray Baker Bridge, and the three A Final Salute war memorial statues at the Peoria County Courthouse will all be illuminated in green light from November 6-12.
“The green light is a visual reminder of our appreciation for the valor and dedication of our nation's military personnel and their families, both on and off the battlefield,” said Michael Brooks, Superintendent of the Peoria County Veterans Assistance Commission. “Operation Green Light aims to raise awareness about the unique challenges faced by veterans, as well as highlighting resources such as our Veterans Assistance Commission that is available in our community to assist veterans and their families.”
The campaign is spearheaded by the National Association of Counties and the National Association of County Veteran Service Officers. We thank the Peoria Riverfront Museum and City of Peoria for their support and solidarity in lighting the Murray Baker Bridge and the Dome Planetarium in green with us. Through Operation Green Light, our county governments and our communities will send a message that veterans are seen, appreciated, and supported.
Residents and businesses are also encouraged to participate by simply changing one light bulb in their location 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 or customers.
The hashtag #OperationGreenLight can be used on social media to share and see participation efforts nationwide.
Visit naco.org/operationgreenlight for more information on the project. Visit the Veterans Assistance Commission’s webpage at www.peoriacounty.gov/303/Veterans-Assistance to learn about their services.