Operation Green Light

In advance of the upcoming Veterans Day holiday, Pickens County announced that county buildings would be illuminated green beginning October 1st through November 13th as part of Operation Green Light for Veterans, a new national collaborative initiative of the National Association of Counties (NACo) to support military veterans, as well as raise awareness about the unique challenges faced by many veterans and the resources that are available at the county, state, and federal level to assist veterans and their families.

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.

“Operation Green Light is a simple way to express our collective appreciation for the public service of our veterans,” said NACo President Denise Winfrey. “We encourage everyone to join us in displaying a green light for our veterans and to also reflect on how we, as a nation and at the county level, assist our military service personnel back into civilian life upon completion of their service to our country.”

For veterans searching for employment, the Green Light means GO to www.pickenscountysc.com or contact Pickens County Human Resources to apply for one of the open positions. “We want to make sure our veterans 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,” said County Administrator Ken Roper. “We want these important citizens to know that their learned skills and demonstrated record of service can be a valuable part of our county and its workforce. These folks are our heroes, and we are ready to offer them more avenues of service. Whether it be with our emergency services like Fire, EMS, Detention, or Dispatch, we are #hiringheroes here in Pickens County.”

Pickens County residents are encouraged to participate in Operation Green Light for Veterans by simply changing one light bulb in their house to a green bulb leading up to Veterans’ Day. This can be an exterior light that neighbors and passersby see, or an interior light that sparks a conversation with friends. Local businesses are also welcome to participate by illuminating their business green, especially during the week of Veterans’ Day, November 6-12, 2022.

By shining a green light, we let our veterans know that they are seen, appreciated, and supported. Residents can share their participation on social media using the hashtag #OperationGreenLight.

The Pickens County Veterans’ Affairs staff stands ready to assist veteran residents year-round. Veterans and family members can learn more about resources available to them by visiting Pickens County Veterans’ Affairs Office at 222 McDaniel Ave. Pickens, SC 29671, emailing pcva@co.pickens.sc.us, or calling (864)898-5926.