Why the Greenlight A Vet initiative is so important.
America’s veterans are without a doubt some of our nation’s bravest, hardest working men and women. And when it comes time to transition from active duty back to civilian life, it’s often really, really difficult. Many don’t have supportive families to come back to, a home to call their own, or a distinct path they want to pursue after their time of service. That can be very lonely and very scary.
I have the pleasure of being married to a veteran. He spent four years in the United States Air Force as a TACP. He jumped out of airplanes. He took part in crazy training that even I don’t know how he pulled through. He chased his dreams and overcame obstacles that are so truly inspiring. And he met his best friends along the way. They formed a brotherhood that most probably can’t understand.
Those friends are the men and women who make sure we have a safe place to sleep at night. They make sure terrorists don’t step foot in the U.S. They put themselves on the frontline so we don’t have to.
It’s important we as civilians and the loved ones of these heroic people welcome them with open arms — whether that’s arriving home from a deployment, a veteran transitioning back to civilian life, or a WWII veteran who has been home for over 70 years yet still has a tough time talking about his experiences (my grandpa).
I’m proud Iowa has Home Base Iowa, a program that is dedicated to helping veterans find employment and welcoming communities to call home right here in Iowa. It’s a one-of-a-kind program; a resource to learn about and fully understand the depth of veteran’s benefits here in Iowa. I’m proud our nation offers a GI Bill so my husband can go back to school and chase after his next dream of becoming a chemical engineer. I’m proud to call Iowa our home, and it’s the state all veterans can.
That’s why I can’t help but feel overwhelmed and overjoyed with the Greenlight A Vet initiative that Walmart is spearheading. It’s purpose is to establish visible national support for our veterans by encouraging all Americans to change one light to green. It’s that simple. It gives hope to veterans in our country who may not have any.
November not only houses Veterans Day (November 11 — mark your calendars!), but it’s also National Gratitude Month. So please… change one of your lights outside to show gratitude to our veterans this month. Teach your children about the program and what the green light represents. Our veterans need our support more than anything. Please be gracious.
To show your support of Greenlight a Vet, visit their website at greenlightavet.com and use #greenlightavet when positing about the initiative. You can also watch veteran’s stories on their YouTube channel.
