NYSAC Launches Sixth Annual Operation Green Light, Announces New Task Force to Strengthen Veterans' Services

NYSAC expands commitment with recognition and action through new Presidential Task Force

Today marks the kickoff of the sixth annual Operation Green Light for Veterans, a nationwide initiative that encourages residents, businesses, and governments to illuminate their homes and buildings green in recognition of the service and sacrifice of America's veterans.

The campaign, which runs November 4–11, was launched by NYSAC in 2021 as a visible way to promote support for our veterans, and has since grown into a national movement, with hundreds of counties across the country participating in partnership with the National Association of Counties (NACo).

As Operation Green Light enters its sixth year, NYSAC is also expanding its commitment to veterans through the creation of a new Presidential Task Force on Veterans Services and Support. The Task Force is examining the challenges facing veterans across the state, identifying successful local initiatives, and developing recommendations to strengthen the services and support counties provide to veterans and their families.

"Operation Green Light began with a simple idea: that the men and women who served our country deserve to know that their communities see them, appreciate them, and stand behind them," said NYSAC President Dr. Kevin D. Watkins. "Six years later, that message is shining in communities across America. But our commitment does not end when the green lights go out. Through this new Task Force, we're building on that spirit of recognition and working to ensure that veterans have access to the services, resources, and opportunities they have earned."

While Operation Green Light provides a visible expression of gratitude and solidarity, the new Task Force represents a complementary effort to translate that commitment into meaningful policy and action.
Counties play a critical role in connecting veterans to the full range of federal and state benefits and services, including accessing health care and mental health resources, securing housing, and finding employment opportunities. County Veterans Service Officers are often the first point of contact for veterans and their families seeking assistance.

The Presidential Task Force, established at the direction of President Watkins, brings together county leaders and veterans' services stakeholders to assess the needs of veterans statewide and explore opportunities to strengthen county-level support. Its work is being informed by input from County Veterans Service Officers and county officials across New York State, including a statewide survey examining the challenges they face and the programs that are making the most difference in their communities.

The Task Force is chaired by Niagara County Legislator, and NYSAC Board Member Jeffrey Elder, a U.S. Air Force veteran whose distinguished military career included serving as a crewmember aboard Air Force One under three U.S. presidents. Elder has continued his career in public service at the local, state, and federal levels.

"As a veteran, I know that the transition from military service to civilian life can bring challenges that aren't always visible to the public," said Elder. "Operation Green Light is a powerful reminder that our veterans are not forgotten. Our Task Force is about putting that same commitment into action.”

"Counties have always been on the front lines of serving veterans, and Operation Green Light has shown what we can accomplish when counties come together around a shared mission," said NYSAC Executive Director Stephen J. Acquario. "Now, we're taking that same collaborative approach to the policies and programs that impact veterans' lives: to ensure that our commitment to those who served is reflected not only in the lights we shine, but in the work we do every day."

For more information about Operation Green Light and NYSAC's work on veterans' issues, visit www.nysac.org/veterans.

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