Residents driving through Washington Park in Bellevue, Neb., have been greeted by a sea of green illumination this week. The lighting is part of Operation Green Light, a nationwide campaign that encourages communities to display green lights as a visible symbol of gratitude, appreciation and support for the nation’s veterans.
Operation Green Light brings a local tribute
The city’s Light Up Bellevue crew installed the green lighting ahead of the annual Christmas in Olde Towne Holiday Light and Music Display, which officially begins on Thanksgiving night. By pairing the veteran‑focused tribute with the holiday celebration, city officials hope to remind neighbors that the sacrifices of service members are never forgotten.
“It’s super special. Both of our grandpas were in the service—my grandpa in the Air Force, her grandpa in the Navy—so it’s super cool to see a town like Bellevue using these lights to honor the veterans,” said Ben Tischleder, who visited the park with his family, Brooke and Brody.
Community response
Neighbors who stopped by the park praised the display as a fitting way to recognize those who have defended the country. Many expressed that the green lights provided a poignant reminder of the nation’s debt of gratitude, especially as the holiday season approaches.
City officials also used the occasion to remind residents not to miss the upcoming Christmas in Olde Towne Holiday Light and Music Display, a multi‑day event featuring festive lighting, live music and family‑friendly activities throughout the historic district.
About Operation Green Light
Operation Green Light is a grassroots effort that began several years ago and has spread to towns and cities across the United States. Participants install green lighting on public structures, parks and landmarks to create a unified visual tribute to veterans. The initiative is coordinated by a coalition of veteran service organizations and local governments, all seeking to keep the memory of military service front‑and‑center in the public eye.
In Bellevue, the project was organized in partnership with the city’s Parks and Recreation Department, local veterans’ groups and volunteers from the community. The green illumination will remain in place through the holiday season, after which the lights will be returned to their standard configuration.
Looking ahead
The city encourages all residents to attend the Christmas in Olde Towne Holiday Light and Music Display, which promises a festive atmosphere with holiday music, food vendors and a chance for families to gather safely. The event is expected to draw visitors from across Sarpy County and beyond, providing a boost to local businesses and reinforcing Bellevue’s reputation as a community that values both tradition and service.
For more information about the holiday display schedule, parking and volunteer opportunities, residents can visit the City of Bellevue’s official website or follow the city’s social‑media channels.
Original reporting: KMTV 3 News Now (Scripps) – local — read the source article.
