Courthouse lighted in green to honor veterans

​YORK – The York County Courthouse is lighted in green this week, as part of Operation Green Light for Veterans.

​The west side of the courthouse, both upper and lower areas, are well lit and making a statement in downtown York.
Brian Lewis, maintenance director at the courthouse, and York County Veterans Services Officer Nick Wollenburg have been working on the project, in an effort to make the courthouse even more green than it has been before, in the past two years since York County began participating.
The National Association of County Officials and the Nebraska Association of County Officials invited all counties to participate Nov. 4-11 (the 11th being Veterans Day). “Through the simple act of lighting county buildings and landmarks in green, we ensure veterans feel seen and heard and that we hold steadfast in our commitment to ensuring their access to resources.”
In early October, 2023, Congresswoman Betty McCollum and Congressman Marc Molinaro introduced a resolution in the House of Representatives in support of Operation Green Light For Veterans to raise awareness about important county resources available to help veterans transition to civilian life.
When the resolution was introduced, Rep. McCollum said, “Our nation owes a debt of gratitude to the brave U.S. service members who defend and protect our nation and its ideals at home and abroad. It encourages county governments to illuminate buildings with green lights in November, to symbolize unwavering support, appreciation and recognition for veterans. It also helps connect veterans with vital county resources to help them thrive in their daily lives.”
Then in 2024, the Nebraska Association of County Officials (NACO) urged counties and state agencies to participate in the program.
As explained by York County Commissioner Chairman Randy Obermier, York County was pleased to participate in the effort “to let veterans know they are seen, appreciated and supported.”
Wollenburg said they explored many different ways to bring even more of a green hue to the courthouse, to show York County’s undying support for veterans.
“This year, the courthouse is clearly green and it’s really noticeable downtown,” Wollenburg said. “We started this a couple of years ago, the first year being kind of last minute. And we’ve tried to build on it since. I think we got there this year. Things are very green, showing our great support for our veterans.”