Cook County Lights Landmarks Green in Support of Operation Green Light for Veterans

In advance of Veterans Day, Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle announced plans to illuminate County buildings with green lights from November 4-11 as part of Operation Green Light for Veterans, a nationwide effort to unite counties in support of military veterans. The initiative, led by the National Association of Counties and National Association of County Veterans Service Officers, raises awareness about the unique challenges faced by many veterans and highlights the resources available at the county, state and federal levels to assist veterans and their families. 

The following County facilities are participating in Operation Green Light: 

• Cook County Building – 118 N. Clark St., Chicago, IL  
• George W. Dunne Cook County Administrative Building – 69 W. Washington St., Chicago, IL  
• 161 N. Clark St., Chicago, IL 
• Rolling Meadows Courthouse – 2121 Euclid Ave., Rolling Meadows, IL  
• Skokie Courthouse – 5600 Old Orchard Rd., Skokie, IL  
• Markham Courthouse – 16501 S. Kedzie Ave., Markham, IL  
• Bridgeview Courthouse – 10220 S. 76th Ave., Bridgeview, IL  
• Maywood Courthouse – 1500 Maybrook Dr., Maywood, IL  
• George N. Leighton Criminal Courthouse/Criminal Court Building – 2650 S. California Ave., Chicago, IL  
• Cook County Juvenile Court – 2245 W. Ogden Ave., Chicago, IL  
• Domestic Violence Courthouse – 555 W. Harrison St., Chicago, IL  

Now in its fifth year, Operation Green Light is an initiative to support military veterans and raise awareness about the challenges they face. It seeks to empower and connect counties, veterans and their families through a coordinated and cohesive transition process. The initiative aims to improve relocation outcomes and reduce stress for new veterans and their families.  Operation Green Light also provides educational opportunities for governments, businesses and individuals to learn more about military culture, suicide prevention and many other topics. 

In addition to lighting County buildings, bridges and other landmarks, the initiative encourages residents, businesses and other organizations to participate by simply changing one light bulb to a green bulb. This can be an exterior light that neighbors and passersby see, or an interior light that sparks conversation with friends. By shining a green light, veterans know that they are seen, appreciated and supported.  

Counties and residents across the country are sharing their participation on social media using the hashtag #OperationGreenLight. Click here for more information on Operation Green Light.