FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Monday, Nov. 7
Press contact: Ryan Yambra, ryan.yambra@multco.us
In advance of the upcoming Veterans Day, Multnomah County will light the Morrison Bridge green Monday, Nov. through Thursday, Nov. 10, as part of Operation Green Light. The new national initiative of the National Association of Counties (NACo) is an effort to better support military veterans by raising awareness about the unique challenges faced by many veterans and the resources that are available at the County.
“Our nation’s voluntary military force members, and their families, have made immense sacrifices for our safety and security,” said Sheila Balbin, who manages Multnomah County’s Veterans’ Services Program. “We want to make sure our veterans and their families know that their service mattered, that we are grateful for their sacrifices, and that it is now our turn to make sure they are served by their county government and our community.”
The new national collaborative is spearheaded by the National Association of Counties and the National Association of County Veteran Service Officers, building upon the successful efforts of the New York State Association of Counties and the NYS County Veteran Service Officers’ Association in 2021.
In addition to lighting County buildings, residents and businesses are encouraged to participate by simply changing one light bulb in their house 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.
By shining a green light, neighbors can let our veterans know that they are seen, appreciated, and supported. While this event is focused around the week of Veterans Day (Nov. 7 to Nov. 13), participants are encouraged to continue shining the light year-round. Residents can share their participation on social media using the hashtag #OperationGreenLight.
Commissioner Sharon Meieran, who represents the Board on the Veterans Task Force, is leading the County’s participation in Operation Green Light. This will be the first time that Multnomah County participates in the initiative.
“With Operation Green Light, we are sending a message of appreciation to our veterans and their families,” said Commissioner Sharon Meieran. “We encourage everyone to join us in shining a green light in support of our veterans and to also reflect on how we collectively can support veterans and their families transitioning back to civilian life.”
Visit naco.org/operationgreenlight or multco.us/veterans for more information and links to resources available to veterans.