Johnston County is inviting its communities to shine green this Veterans Day as the county joins the nationwide Operation Green Light for Veterans campaign.

From November 4 through November 11, 2026, residents and businesses are encouraged to display green lights to honor the men and women who have served in the U.S. military.

The idea is simple: replace a regular outdoor light bulb with a green one and leave it shining through Veterans Day.

Johnston County officials say residents may begin participating early rather than waiting until November 4.

A countywide invitation

The Johnston County Board of Commissioners adopted a resolution supporting the annual observance and encouraged towns across the county to illuminate public buildings in green.

The invitation extends to individual homes, storefronts, and other visible locations throughout Clayton, Smithfield, Selma, Benson, Kenly, Princeton, and neighboring communities.

Robert Boyette, director of Johnston County Veterans Services, has called on local households and businesses to participate.

Why green lights?

The National Association of Counties and the National Association of County Veterans Service Officers organize Operation Green Light to help communities recognize veterans and raise awareness of available assistance.

The color green serves as a recognizable signal of public support, whether it appears in a house window, on a business porch, or across a government building.

Even a modest light can become part of a much larger expression of gratitude when neighbors throughout a community participate.

Support that goes beyond one week

The county commissioners' resolution also highlights the challenges some service members face when transitioning from military to civilian life.

According to the county's October announcement, roughly 200,000 service members nationwide enter civilian life each year.

That transition can involve employment, health care, education, housing, and navigating programs designed for veterans and their families.

In Johnston County, veterans and eligible family members can find assistance through the Veterans Services Office.

The office helps people understand and apply for benefits and services, including federal and state programs.

The department is located at the Johnston County Land Use Center, 309 E. Market Street in Smithfield.

Residents can contact the office at (919) 989-5067 or visit its website for more information.

How to participate at home or at work

Choose a green light suitable for your outdoor fixture or another visible, safe location, and follow the fixture manufacturer's instructions.

Leave the light illuminated during the November 4–11 campaign, or switch it on sooner as Johnston County officials have suggested.

The county has invited municipalities to take part, but the announcements do not mean every public building has committed to special lighting.

Local residents can also recognize veterans by thanking them personally, sharing reliable information about benefits or supporting community organizations serving military families.

One green light, a communitywide message

The county's participation, also covered by Johnston County Report (JoCoReport), connects Johnston County with communities across the country marking this year's Veterans Day.

For Johnston County families and businesses, that recognition can begin with the simple act of turning on a green light.

Join the conversation

Will you be displaying a green light at your home or business this Veterans Day?

Is there a veteran in your family or community you would like to recognize?

What other ways can Johnston County residents show their support for local veterans?

Share your thoughts in the reader comments below.