Support those who have served our nation

In 1954, President Eisenhower signed a bill proclaiming Nov. 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.” Let us come together to honor these brave individuals who have served our country in uniform.

More than ever, our veterans and their families need our support. Certainly, we can all agree that these men and women who risked everything deserve our support and gratitude. That’s why Anne Arundel County is joining the National Association of Counties and the National Association of County Veteran Service Officers in launching Operation Green Light for Veterans, an initiative designed to shine a light on the service of our veterans.

As part of the OGL, Anne Arundel County is illuminating the Arundel Center in green to remind the veterans and their families we are here for them. We encourage individuals and businesses to join us by changing one light bulb in an entryway to a green light to let veterans know that they are appreciated and supported. While this event is focused on the week of Nov. 7-13th, we encourage individuals to continue to shine the green light year-round.

Operation Green Light is also intended to raise awareness of resources for the approximately 60,000 veterans we proudly serve in Anne Arundel County. Throughout the year, Anne Arundel County staff is busy connecting veterans to federal and state benefits, helping them manage employment and medical needs, as well as finding peers to assist with the transition to civilian life.

Veterans can learn about available services at 410 222-3500 (the Anne Arundel County Veterans Service Center) and through the Anne Arundel County Commission on Veterans Affairs. This Veterans Day weekend and thereafter, please join us in Operation Green Light and turn Anne Arundel County green for our veterans.

— Debra Luzietti-Myers, Annapolis