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   Cass County – In advance of the upcoming Veterans Day holiday, Cass County announced plans to illuminate county buildings green from November 4-11 as part of Operation Green Light for Veterans, a nationwide effort uniting counties to support military veterans. The initiative, led by the National Association of Counties (NACo), raises awareness around the unique challenges faced by many veterans and the resources available at the county, state and federal levels to assist veterans and their families.

   Now more than ever, our veterans need our support. The latest federal data show that in a single recent year, nearly 6,400 veterans died by suicide — an average of more than 17 every day. That number has decreased slightly in the most recent reporting, which is real progress, but it’s still 17 families a day left with an unanswerable loss. Behind every one of those figures is someone who once raised their hand and volunteered to protect the rest of us. This November, we’re renewing our commitment to closing that gap in a very visible way.

   Now in its sixth year, Operation Green Light is spearheaded by NACo and the National Association of County Veterans Service Officers (NACVSO), building upon successful efforts by the New York State Association of Counties and the NYS County Veteran Service Officers’ Association in 2021. In 2025, 412 counties across 44 states participated in Operation Green Light. This year, NACo and NACVSO are inviting the nation’s 3,069 counties, parishes and boroughs to participate, with hopes of achieving larger numbers.

   Cass County residents, businesses and community organizations are encouraged to participate in Operation Green Light by changing one light to a green bulb. By shining a green light, we let our veterans know that they are seen, appreciated and supported. Green bulbs will be available at different Cass County Office Buildings and other local organizations throughout the county. Contact, Cass County Veterans Service Officer at 218-947-7534 or Health Human and Veteran Services at 218-547-1340 for locations.

   “A green light is a small thing. But when thousands of counties and partners turn one on together each November, it becomes something larger,” said NACo Executive Director Matthew Chase. “Operation Green Light for Veterans is a powerful signal that we see our veterans, we remember their service, and we owe them more than a thank you once a year. Their sacrifice didn’t end at discharge. Our gratitude shouldn’t either.”  

   Counties and residents across the country are sharing their participation on social media using the hashtag #OperationGreenLight. 

   For more information on Operation Green Light visit https://www.naco.org/program/operation-green-light-veterans.

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