Encourages Residents and Businesses to Participate in
Operation Green Light to Shine a Light on Veterans
Schenectady County will light up bridges and buildings in green as part of Operation Green Light from November 6-12. The train station, Key Hall, and the Schenectady Municipal Parking Garage are just a few of the downtown buildings that will be lit up in green to show support and gratitude for men and women who served our country in the armed forces.
The Schenectady County Legislature will also consider a resolution at their upcoming meeting on Wednesday, November 8, 2023 in support of Operation Greenlight and to encourage residents throughout the county to participate as a show of support for those who served our country.
“Schenectady County is proud to be the home of over 8,200 veterans who have served with honor,” said Schenectady County Legislator Holly Vellano, Chair of the Military Affairs & Veterans Committee. “Participating in Operation Green Light is one way we can acknowledge and honor our veterans, and ensure that their dedication and selfless service to our country and community are never forgotten.”
New Veterans Division in the 54th Annual Holiday Parade on November 18
Schenectady County recently announced that Capital Region residents who have served in the military can sign up to participate in the new Veterans Division in the upcoming 54th Annual Holiday Parade Presented by the City and County of Schenectady at www.schenectadycountyny.gov/parade. They will have the option to walk or ride the parade route, thanks to our Division Partner, CDTA, along with our Premier Sponsor MVP Health Care, who together are providing trolley transportation to those who request it. The Veterans Division will hold a position of honor directly behind this year’s Grand Marshal, the 109th Airlift Wing.
Honor a Veteran Program
The Honor-A-Veteran program is a collaboration between Schenectady County’s Veterans Service Agency and the County’s Honor-A-Veteran Committee to honor veterans who were either born in or currently reside in Schenectady County. Members of the committee are from various veteran organizations throughout the County. Learn more about Schenectady County’s Honor-a-Veteran Program at www.schenectadycountyny.gov/veterans.
Schenectady County Vietnam Veterans Memorial
Schenectady County dedicated its new Vietnam Veterans Memorial at SUNY Schenectady in October 2021. The memorial is located between the back parking lot and State Street, and includes a memorial plaque, a concrete viewing area with granite benches, lighting, and a flagpole.
Purple Heart Community
The Schenectady County Legislature passed a resolution in February of 2021 proclaiming Schenectady County as a Purple Heart Community. The designation honors the service and sacrifice of the men and women in uniform who were wounded or killed by the enemy while serving to protect the freedoms enjoyed by all Americans.
Visit www.schenectadycounty.com/veterans for more information about veterans services provided by the county and a list of Veterans Day events.