Governor Kathy Hochul has declared November 11 as Veterans Day and the entire month of November as Veterans Month in New York State. In recognition, she has directed that 17 state landmarks be illuminated green on Veterans Day evening. This initiative is part of Operation Green Light, a campaign that originated in New York and now extends nationwide to honor veterans and service members from all military eras.
“Tonight, New York State landmarks will illuminate green in honor of the service and sacrifice of our veterans and service members,” Governor Hochul said. “On Veterans Day and every day, we are grateful for those who have made tremendous sacrifices for our country and our state and we remain committed to supporting all those who have served.”
Operation Green Light began in 2021 through collaboration among the New York State Association of Counties, the New York State County Executives’ Association, and the New York State County Veteran Service Officers’ Association. The campaign aims to show support for veterans, highlight counties’ roles in providing services to them, and advocate for legislation to enhance these efforts. The National Association of Counties (NACo) has since adopted the initiative, which now involves hundreds of counties across the United States.
New York State Department of Veterans’ Services Commissioner Viviana M. DeCohen stated: “On Veterans Day, we honor the courage, character, and commitment of all who served – and the loved ones who stood by them with quiet strength and firm resolve. As New York lights green tonight, we shine hope and gratitude across our state, reminding every Veteran and Military Family that they are seen, valued, and never alone. We thank Governor Hochul for her steadfast leadership and her unwavering dedication to uplifting our Veterans and Service Members today and every day.”
The following landmarks will be lit green: One World Trade Center; Albany International Airport Gateway; Alfred E. Smith State Office Building; Empire State Plaza; Fairport Lift Bridge over the Erie Canal; Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge; Grand Central Terminal – Pershing Square Viaduct; Kosciuszko Bridge; Lake Placid Olympic Center; Moynihan Train Hall; MTA LIRR – East End Gateway at Penn Station; Niagara Falls; Roosevelt Island Lighthouse; State Education Building; State Fairgrounds – Main Gate & Expo Center; The H. Carl McCall SUNY Building; The “Franklin D. Roosevelt” Mid-Hudson Bridge.
Jason Garnar, President of the New York State County Executives Association and Broome County Executive said: “Counties across New York are honored to join Governor Hochul in illuminating communities across the state in green in a tribute to those who served. Operation Green Light began right here in New York, and it’s inspiring to see it grow into a powerful statewide and national expression of gratitude for our veterans. Together, we honor their courage, sacrifice, and enduring service to our communities and our country.”
Phil Church from the New York State Association of Counties added: “We are deeply grateful to Governor Hochul for her continued leadership and for joining New York’s counties in illuminating landmarks across the state in green. This campaign reflects what New York does best — working together to recognize those who have served and to ensure they receive the support and respect they’ve earned. To every veteran and service member across our state, we thank you for your commitment, bravery, and sacrifice.”
