Washoe County lights buildings green to honor veterans

Washoe County is lighting select government buildings green through Veterans Day as part of a nationwide effort to honor veterans.

The county announced on X that it is joining the National Association of Counties (NACo) and the National Association of County Veterans Service Officers (NACVSO) in Operation Green Light for Veterans.

The green lighting runs from Nov. 4 through Wednesday, Nov. 11.

A growing national effort

Operation Green Light invites all 3,069 U.S. counties, parishes and boroughs to light buildings green during the week before Veterans Day. The initiative raises awareness about challenges veterans face and the resources available to them, according to a NACo press release published Nov. 4.

The program is now in its sixth year, according to NACo. It built upon efforts by the New York State Association of Counties and the NYS County Veteran Service Officers' Association in 2021, according to NACo.

In 2025, 412 counties across 44 states took part, according to a Gaston County, N.C., release. Approximately 200,000 service members transition from military to civilian life each year, according to NACo.

George Dunlap, national president of NACo, told Military.com that green is commonly seen as a symbol of hope and renewal. "Green light" also signals moving forward, Dunlap said.

NACo and NACVSO also encourage residents and businesses to swap one porch or entryway light bulb for a green one during the week.

Local veteran resources

Veterans in the Sparks area can connect with free support through the Nevada Department of Veterans Services (NDVS). The state agency's accredited Veterans Service Officers (VSOs) help veterans and their families file claims and navigate the appeals process at no cost, according to the NDVS website.

NDVS operates a location at the Northern Nevada State Veterans Home, 36 Battle Born Way, Sparks. A second office sits inside the VA's Reno Regional Office at 5460 Reno Corporate Dr., Suite 131, Reno. Both are free.