Talbot County, Maryland

11/04/2026

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Talbot County is inviting residents, businesses, and community organizations to join a nationwide show of support for military veterans by displaying green lights November 4–11, 2026, as part of Operation Green Light for Veterans.

The initiative, led by the National Association of Counties (NACo) and the National Association of County Veterans Service Officers (NACVSO), encourages communities to illuminate homes, businesses, and public buildings green in recognition of veterans' service and sacrifices. The campaign also raises awareness of the challenges veterans may face and the resources available to support them and their families.

The Talbot County Council will formally recognize Operation Green Light with a proclamation during its regular meeting on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, at 5 p.m. in the Bradley Meeting Room of the Talbot County Courthouse, 11 N. Washington Street, Easton. Local veterans, veterans organizations, their families, and members of the public are encouraged to attend and join the County in recognizing those who have served.

"Operation Green Light is a simple but meaningful way to show our veterans that their service is appreciated and that our community stands behind them," said Talbot County Council President Chuck Callahan. "We encourage everyone to participate, whether it's a green light on your front porch, in a business window, or at a community building."

Now in its sixth year, Operation Green Light has grown into a national effort to recognize veterans and connect them with available resources. In 2025, 412 counties across 44 states participated in the initiative. This year, NACo and NACVSO are encouraging counties across the country to join the campaign and expand its reach.

"A green light is a small thing. But when thousands of counties and partners turn one on together each November, it becomes something larger," said NACo Executive Director Matthew Chase. "Operation Green Light for Veterans is a powerful signal that we see our veterans, we remember their service, and we owe them more than a thank you once a year. Their sacrifice didn't end at discharge. Our gratitude shouldn't either."

Across Maryland's Mid-Shore region, veterans may face challenges accessing health care, employment opportunities, housing assistance, transportation, and other support services, particularly in rural communities. Organizations such as Maryland's Commitment to Veterans, the Cambridge VA Outpatient Clinic, and other regional service providers offer programs and assistance to help veterans and their families navigate these needs.

Jon Qvarnstrom of Mid Shore Behavioral Health emphasized the importance of raising awareness of these challenges and connecting veterans with local resources.

"The mid-shore has a strong veteran community, but veterans in our rural communities may face barriers to health care, employment, transportation, and social support. Operation Green Light helps raise awareness of these challenges and the resources available to veterans and their families, including behavioral health services," said Qvarnstrom. "Through community outreach and collaboration among local organizations, we can help connect veterans with the support they need. Displaying a green light November 4–11 is a simple way to show our appreciation for their service and remind them that support is available."

For All Seasons is also expanding its support for veterans and military families through its new Center for Veterans and Military Families, which brings together mental health care, crisis services, VA benefits information and referrals, and other resources.

"When someone serves our country, their service doesn't end without leaving an impact. It becomes part of their story, and often, part of their family's story, too. We owe it to our veterans and military families to make sure they are not left to navigate life's challenges alone," said Beth Anne Dorman, CEO of For All Seasons. "Through our new Center for Veterans and Military Families, we are bringing together mental health care, crisis services, VA benefits information and referrals, and the resources people need to move forward. Whether someone is coming home from service, raising a family through the demands of military life, or carrying experiences from decades ago, I want them to know something: You have spent so much of your life showing up for others. Now it's our turn to show up for you. Your service matters. Your family matters. And your story will always matter to us."

Participating in Operation Green Light is simple. Residents and businesses can replace one outdoor or indoor light bulb with a green bulb and keep it illuminated November 4–11. Community members are also encouraged to share photos of their green lights on social media using the hashtag #OperationGreenLight and invite others to participate.

The November 10 proclamation offers another opportunity for the community to come together in appreciation of local veterans and recognize the importance of supporting them throughout the year.

For more information about Operation Green Light and resources available to veterans and their families, visit www.talbotcountymd.gov/operationgreenlight.

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