GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Kent County Veterans Services (KCVS) will launch a special operation in November to honor veterans in the community ahead of Veterans Day.
Returning for the third year in a row, Operation Green Light will take place from Nov. 4-11.
Local businesses and residents are encouraged to participate by replacing their outdoor lights with green bulbs as a show of support for military veterans.
"We are excited to shine a green light across Kent County and honor our veterans," said Ryan Grams, director of KCVS. "This year's campaign aims not only to light up urban landmarks but also to inspire people from every corner of the county to get involved."
The operation is a national initiative of the National Association of Counties and the National Association of County Veteran's Service Officers.
In the weeks leading up to Operation Green Light, KCVS said businesses and residents can contribute by:
- Purchasing green light bulbs for their homes and businesses
- Visiting accesskent.com/greenlight for a toolkit of resources to promote the cause
- Rallying friends, family and networks to join the initiative
Operation Green Light will conclude with the annual Veterans Day Parade in downtown Grand Rapids on Monday, Nov. 11 at 7 p.m.
The parade will begin at Lyon Street and Ottawa Avenue, then head south to Monroe Center, then Division, then Fulton to conclude at Veterans Memorial Park for a Ceremony of Remembrance.
The operation works to show support for veterans while highlighting the resources offered to them by KCVS.
Some of these services include emergency assistance for rent, utilities and food as well as disability benefits. More information on these resources can be found here.
