VENTURA, Calif. – In recognition of Veterans Day, the County of Ventura is proudly honoring those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces through a series of first-time public tributes, including a Veterans Portrait Exhibition, flag installation, and participation in the nationwide Operation Green Light campaign.
“As a county, we’re proud to recognize the veterans who live and work in our community,” said Fourth District Supervisor Janice Parvin, Chair of the Board of Supervisors. “These tributes are a way to show our ongoing gratitude to those who have served our country through military service.”
Leading up to Veterans Day, American flags will be placed around the Ventura County Veterans Memorial at the Government Center in Ventura. The flags, generously donated by the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Wallace Chaffee Post 1679, are meant to honor local area veterans, especially those currently serving the community in public service across County agencies.
For the first time, the County is also hosting a Veterans Portrait Exhibition inside the Hall of Administration at the Ventura County Government Center. The portraits feature County of Ventura employees who have served or are currently serving in the military. Within the exhibit, individuals from nearly every branch of the U.S. Armed Forces are represented and the photographs will be on display through Wednesday, December 3rd. Viewing of the exhibition is free and open to the public in the Hall of Administration during regular business hours.
“This is a moment for us to pause and recognize the people behind the uniform – our coworkers, neighbors and family members,” said Dr. Sevet Johnson, County Executive Officer. “We hope this effort encourages people to connect with veterans in their lives and to learn more about the resources available in our county.”
In compliment to the flag display and the portrait exhibition, the Ventura County Veterans Memorial will also be illuminated in green in support of Operation Green Light, a national initiative led by the National Association of Counties. The campaign encourages communities to show visible support for veterans by lighting buildings and homes in green. Residents are invited to take part by placing a green light in a window or on a porch to demonstrate support.
“Veterans Day is not only about remembering history – it is about recognizing the living legacy of service that surrounds us right here in Ventura County, home to more than 40,000 veterans and military personnel,” stated Jim McHugh, Veterans Services Officer. “We can all take pride in how the County shows its appreciation for veterans in our community through its participation in Operation Greenlight, the flag display, and the portrait exhibition of County employees who are veterans or active-duty military, continuing their commitment to service through their work for Ventura County residents.”
For more information about veterans’ services offered through the County of Ventura, visit venturacounty.gov/human-services-agency/veteran-services/ .
