Indian River County, FL – The Indian River County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) is proud to participate in Operation Green Light for Veterans, a national initiative designed to raise awareness about the unique challenges veterans face and to highlight the resources available to support them.
From November 4 through November 11, the County Administration Building and the Expo Center at the County Fairgrounds will be illuminated in green each evening. This symbolic gesture is meant to let veterans in our community know they are seen, appreciated, and supported.
Residents are encouraged to join this tribute by displaying green lights at their homes or businesses in honor of those who have served.
“In 2025, the Indian River County Veteran Services Office served more than 14,000 veterans and their dependents,” said Melissa Arndt, MSG, USA (Ret.), Veteran Services Manager. “Our office was directly responsible for generating approximately $3.1 million in new compensation, pension, and survivor benefits for Indian River County residents last fiscal year.”
Counties across the nation, including Indian River, play a vital role in supporting veterans’ access to stable housing, employment, education, and critical mental health services that address trauma and help prevent suicide. Indian River County also operates a Veterans Treatment Court, which connects justice-involved veterans with programs that address underlying mental health and substance use conditions.
“I especially appreciate our staff who work tirelessly throughout the year to ensure veterans who call Indian River County home can access the resources they so deserve,” said John Titkanich, County Administrator. “Our Veterans Services team takes ‘service excellence’ to a new level. They build meaningful relationships with those they serve—and it shows.”
“As a veteran myself, I can attest, don’t underestimate the significance of a green porch light,” added Titkanich. “It’s a small gesture that can have a big impact on a fellow neighbor’s morale.”
