This commentary was provided by San Benito County Supervisor Mindy Sotelo as part of a local series on astronomy. Lea este articulo en español aqui.
Each November, as Veterans Day approaches, I’m reminded of the quiet strength and sacrifice that lives among us — in our families, our neighbors, and our friends who have worn the uniform of our nation.
For me, this isn’t just a moment on the calendar. It’s personal. My husband proudly served in the United States Marine Corps, and through him, I’ve seen both the pride and the challenges that come with military life. I’ve seen the joy of homecomings and the weight of transition. I’ve seen how service doesn’t end when the uniform comes off — it continues in the heart, often in silence, long after deployment.
That’s why Operation Green Light means so much to me — and to our community. From November 4th through 11th, San Benito County will join a national effort started by the National Association of Counties to “shine a light of appreciation” for our veterans. By placing a green light in your window or at your business, you’re sending a message that speaks louder than words: You are seen. You are valued. You are not alone.
Here in San Benito County, the Board of Supervisors has again declared the week as Operation Green Light for Veterans Week — a time to honor and thank those who have served, especially those transitioning from active duty to civilian life. It’s a small, visible act of unity that reminds us all of the cost of freedom and the gratitude we owe.
Our local Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9242 has been instrumental in making Operation Green Light a shining success here at home. Every year, their members — veterans who continue to serve long after their military careers — go above and beyond to care for others. They’re selling green light bulbs and yard signs as a fundraiser this year, helping residents show their support while raising money for programs that directly benefit veterans and their families.
But their dedication doesn’t stop there. The members of VFW Post 9242 are at the heart of our community all year long. They award scholarships to local students, host the Hometown Hero Banner Program each Veterans Day to honor local service members, and organize events like the Carnival of Special Heroes — a joyful celebration for children with special needs. They send care packages to deployed soldiers, provide emergency support for veterans in need, and ensure that every fallen service member receives military honors at no cost to their family.
Their presence is everywhere — in the annual Easter Egg Hunt, at Wreaths Across America, during Memorial Day and Veterans Day ceremonies, and even through their community space, The Dugout, where local veterans can gather and find camaraderie. These efforts may seem small on their own, but together they weave a fabric of care, remembrance, and respect that makes San Benito County shine brighter.
Last year, homes and businesses across our county glowed green in a collective message of gratitude. This year, we want to make it even bigger and brighter — to remind every veteran that San Benito County stands beside them.
So I invite you — as a neighbor, a friend, and someone who benefits from the freedoms our veterans protect — to join us. Pick up a green light bulb or yard sign from VFW Post 9242, display it proudly from November 4th through 11th, and encourage others to do the same. Attend our Veterans Day events, talk to the veterans in your life, and thank them for their service.
Sometimes, the simplest gestures carry the deepest meaning. One small green light can cut through a lot of darkness — and together, our lights can illuminate a powerful message of gratitude and hope.
Let’s make sure every veteran in San Benito County knows that we see them, we appreciate them, and that this community — their community — will always shine a green light of gratitude in their honor.
*For your green light bulb and or sign, call VFW Commander Bernie Ramirez at (831)902-7811.
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