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Easton, MD - Talbot County is pleased to have kicked off the Operation Green Light campaign on Monday, November 4, in tribute to veterans ahead of Veterans Day.
From now until November 11, residents and local businesses are encouraged to swap out their outdoor lights for green bulbs to show support for military veterans and to highlight the resources available locally to residents. Now in its third year, Operation Green Light is a nationwide initiative led by the National Association of Counties (NACo) and the National Association of County Veterans Service Officers.
“We are excited to shine a green light across Talbot County and honor our veterans,” said Sarah Kilmon, Communications Manager. “This year’s campaign aims not only to light up landmarks but also to inspire people from every corner of the county to get involved in supporting veterans and their families.”
To participate in the initiative, the County invites businesses and residents to make a contribution by:
- Turning on green light bulbs for their homes and businesses
- Sharing resources available to veterans in our area. Visit talbotcountymd.gov/operationgreenlight for a resources list Rallying friends, family, and networks to join this initiative, together illuminating Talbot County in a vibrant show of support for our veterans. The week-long observation will culminate with the celebration of Veterans Day. A ceremony will be hosted by VFW Post 5118, 355 Glebe Road, Easton, MD on November 11, starting at 3 p.m.
There are several programs and organizations in Talbot County and the region that help support veterans and their families. Some of these resources were recently highlighted in the October 22nd Council meeting, where representatives from Mid-Shore Behavioral Health and American Legions Post 70 and 77 received a proclamation to honor Operation Green Light.
During the meeting, Lisa Short, Behavioral Health Coordinator and Adult Population Supervisor at Mid-Shore Behavioral Health, mentioned several resources that are available to veterans.
On a national level, the recently launched Veterans Crisis Line, which can be reached by “dialing 988 then pressing 1”, can connect veterans and family members to personnel trained in crisis intervention and military culture.
Locally, Short encourages veterans to connect with their local VA and utilize that connection in tandem with other services such as Cambridge VA Outpatient Clinic, Health Care for Homeless Veterans (HCHV), Maryland’s Commitment to Veterans, Perry Point VA Medical Center, Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF), and the Veteran and Military Support Alliance (VAMSA). These resources offer healthcare, mental health support, housing assistance, crisis intervention, substance use services, and peer support for veterans.
A list of resources is also available at talbotcountymd.gov/operationgreenlight.
The Operation Green Light initiative offers many resources, making it easier for veterans and their families to find the support they need. Please join the County in shining a green light of hope and support for the more than 3,000 veterans who call Talbot County home.
