Rice County Going Green for Veterans
The Rice County Government Center will be lit in green lighting this week to honor Veterans in observance of Veterans Day.
The Rice County Central Veterans Association will once again have a brief observance at the 11th hour of the 11th day in the 11th month.
This Friday, November 11, 2022 North side of Rice County Courthouse where the Veterans Memorial is located.
Gil Truax, age 95, of Faribault will be the Honored Veteran representing all veterans at the event. Truax was a member of the Merchan Marines.
Gil and his wife Helen were my neighbors for many years and could not have been better next door neighbors.
A News Release from Rice County publicizing the green lighting states, "Residents and businesses are encouraged to participate by changing one light bulb in their home to green. This can be an exterior light or an interior light that sparks conversation with friends."
Here is my green light by the front door to my home.
"By shining a green light, veterans will know that they are seen, appreciated and supported. While this event is focused around the week of Veterans Day (Nov. 7-13), participants are encouraged to continue shining the light year-round. Residents can share their participation on social media using the hastag #OperationGreenLight."
The Rice County News Release includes a quote from Jim Purfeerst, Chair of the Rice County Board of Commissioners, "Since the tragedy of September 11, 2001, our nation's voluntary military and their families have made immense sacrifices for our nation's safety and security. Similar to the sacrifices of previous generations of our armed forces, this service often results in significant stress. We want to make sure our veterans and their families know their service matters, that we are grateful for their sacrifices, and that we are committed to making sure they are served by their county government and our community."
Rice County is lighting the Government Services Building green all this week as part of Operation Green Light, a new initiative of the National Association of Counties to support military veterans.
It also raises awareness about the unique challenges faced by many veterans, and the resources that are available to assist veterans and their families.