Town of Clarkstown

(ROCKLAND) November 3, 2022 – Operation Green Light is a new national collaborative initiative of the National Association of Counties (NACo). Operation Green Light supports military Veterans, as well as raises awareness about the unique challenges faced by many Veterans and the resources that are available at the county, state and federal level to assist Veterans and their families. On Veterans Day, November 11, 2022, the Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge will be illuminated green in support of Operation Green Light.

In addition to lighting county buildings, residents and businesses are encouraged to participate by simply changing one light bulb in their house or office to a green bulb. This can be an exterior light that neighbors and passersby see, or an interior light that sparks a conversation with friends, letting our Veterans know that they are seen, appreciated and supported.

BRIDGES is giving away green light bulbs at their location in the Palisades Center mall on the second floor to encourage residents to stop in and learn about its services available for Veterans such as the Joseph P. Dwyer Veteran Peer Support Program. The bulbs are available from now until November 10^th. This “Vet to Vet” Program assists Veterans with PTSD, suicide ideation, Traumatic Brain Injury and substance and alcohol use issues. This non-clinical assistance can provide a base for the Veteran to get the specific service that they need. Veterans are welcome in this program regardless of discharge status. For more information, call 845-624-1366 ex 104. Green Light Bulbs are also available for free at the Congers Lake and Pomona Independence Cafés. 

Other Rockland County resources available for Veterans include:

• The Department of Veteran Affairs Health Care Clinic in New City (BRIDGES provides free transportation to both the Montrose and Castle Point VA Hospitals).
• The Vet Center located at Clarkstown Town Hall offers mental health treatment.
• The Rockland County Veteran Service Agency assists Veterans with disability claims and manages the local Veteran cemetery. 
• Rockland County Community College Veteran Office helps newly discharged Veterans get back into higher education under the guidance of a trained counselor. 
• All of the service organizations including the American Legion, Vietnam Veterans of America, Jewish War Veterans, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Disabled Veterans of America, The Marine Corps League, The Military Order of the Purple Heart, and more.