Governor Kathy Hochul has declared November 11 as Veterans Day and the month of November as Veterans Month in New York State. She also directed that 17 state landmarks be illuminated green this evening to honor veterans and service members, an initiative known as Operation Green Light.
“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 was started in 2021 through a collaboration between several New York State associations including the Association of Counties, County Executives’ Association, and County Veteran Service Officers’ Association. The campaign aims to support veterans, raise awareness about county services available to them, and advocate for legislation that enhances these services. The initiative has expanded beyond New York, with the National Association of Counties adopting it nationwide.
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 participate in the illumination: 1WTC; 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.
New York State County Executives Association President Jason Garnar commented on the campaign’s origins in New York: “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 also recognized Governor Hochul’s role: “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.”
