In 1954, President Eisenhower signed a bill proclaiming November 11 as Veterans Day, calling on the nation to “solemnly remember the sacrifices of all those who fought so valiantly, on the seas, in the air, and on foreign shores, to preserve our heritage of freedom, and let us reconsecrate ourselves to the task of promoting and enduring peace so that their efforts shall not have been in vain.” This November 11, we will come together as a nation on Veterans Day to honor and celebrate these brave individuals who have served our country in uniform.
For the second year, Cook County and Lake County are joining the National Association of Counties (NACo) and the National Association of County Veteran Service Officers (NACVSO) in support of Operation Green Light for Veterans, an initiative designed to shine a light on the service of our Veterans.
As part of Operation Green Light for Veterans, both Cook County and Lake County will be illuminating buildings in green beginning on November 6, 2023, to remind the Veterans and their families in our communities that we are here for them. Individuals and businesses are encouraged to join by changing one light bulb of your house or business to a green bulb.
By shining a green light, you let Veterans know that they are seen, appreciated, and supported. While this event is focused on the week of Veterans Day (November 6th-12th), individuals are encouraged to continue to shine the light year-round.
Operation Green Light is also an opportunity to raise awareness of the resources available to Veterans and their families. Cook and Lake Counties are home to more than 1,300 Veterans and served by two Veterans Services offices. Throughout the year, the Cook and Lake CVSOs are busy connecting Veterans to benefits resulting in nearly $16million in awarded VA benefits.
This Veterans Day, join us in shining a light of hope and support. Join Operation Green Light and let’s turn Cook County and Lake County green for our Veterans.
Contact your County Veterans Service Officer with questions regarding Veteran status and benefits eligibility. Please do not forget to leave a message if we do not answer, as we are busy assisting others. Please be patient with your CVSO, as we are busy attempting to assist all our Veterans, their families, caregivers, and survivors.
Brad Anderson and Melissa Crandall are the Lake County Veterans Service Officers and can be reached at 218.834.8326 or cvso@co.lake.mn.us
Karen Christianson is the Cook County Veterans Service Officer and can be reached at 218.387.3639, or karen.christianson@co.cook.mn.us
