Veterans Affairs
The Susquehanna County Veterans affairs office proudly serves the Veterans of our County and their families.
Anyone with questions about the vast array of benefits available is encouraged to contact the County VA office, and we will be happy to answer your questions and provide assistance. The office is located in the County Courthouse at 31 Lake Ave. Montrose, Pa. and the office hours are Monday thru Friday from 8:30 A.M. until 4:30 P.M. except for scheduled holidays or required Certified Veterans Services Officer (VSO) training.
Individuals may also find complete information on veteran's federal benefits by visiting the U. S. Department of Veterans Affairs web site at www.va.gov and state benefits at www.dmva.pa.gov/veterans/pages
Veterans in crisis or contemplating suicide may call the Veterans Crisis Line at 988 option 1 or text at 838255 for help
Finally to all our veterans, “thank you for your service” we look forward to serving you.
Veterans Corner
The Susquehanna County Veterans Affairs office writes an article once each month that is published in the Susquehanna Independent (also known as the Susquehanna County Independent). These articles called “Veterans Corner” provide information related to veteran’s issues and benefits. The articles are published once per month and can be found in one of the editions of the Susquehanna Independent. For your convenience we also make the articles available here on the County website.
Anyone with any questions about the benefits available to Veterans and their family members can call the Susquehanna County Veterans Affairs Office at (570) 278-5955
VETERANS CORNER
Veterans Day 2026
Submitted By: Jeffery Mead
Susquehanna County Director of Veterans Affairs/Veterans Service Officer
Veterans Day (originally known as Armistice Day) is a federal holiday in the United States observed annually on November 11, for honoring military veterans of the United States Armed Forces (who were discharged under conditions other than dishonorable). It coincides with other holidays including Armistice Day and Remembrance Day which are celebrated in other countries that mark the anniversary of the end of World War I. Major hostilities of World War I were formally ended at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918, when the Armistice with Germany went into effect. A Congressional Act approved May 13, 1938, made November 11 in each year a legal holiday: "a day to be dedicated to the cause of world peace and to be thereafter celebrated and known as 'Armistice Day'". At the urging of major U.S. veteran organizations, Armistice Day was renamed Veterans Day in 1954. The United States Department of Veterans Affairs website states that the attributive (no apostrophe) rather than the possessive case is the official spelling “because it is not a day that 'belongs' to veterans, it is a day for honoring all veterans”. Veterans Day is distinct from Memorial Day, a U.S. public holiday in May. Veterans Day celebrates the service of all U.S. military Veterans both living and remembered. Legally, two minutes of silence is recommended to be observed at 2:11 p.m. Eastern Standard Time. (Wikipedia).
Susquehanna County and Veterans Affairs Office support the National Association of Counties’ and the National Association of County Veteran Service Officers’ Operation Green Light for Veterans by passing the following Operation Green Light for Veterans 2026 Proclamation designating Susquehanna County as a Green Light for Veterans County, declaring from November 4th through Veterans Day, November 11th 2026, a time to salute and honor the service and sacrifice of our men and women in uniform,” and further encourages its citizens in patriotic tradition to recognize the importance of honoring all those who made immeasurable sacrifices to preserve freedom by displaying green lights in a window of their place of business or residence.
Operation Green Light for Veterans 2026 Proclamation
WHEREAS, the residents of Susquehanna County have great respect, admiration, and the utmost gratitude for all the men and women who have selflessly served our country and this community in the Armed Forces; and
WHEREAS, the contributions and sacrifices of those who served in the Armed Forces have been vital in maintaining the freedoms and way of life enjoyed by our citizens; and
WHEREAS, Susquehanna County seeks to honor individuals who have made countless sacrifices for freedom by placing themselves in harm’s way for the good of all; and
WHEREAS, veterans continue to serve our community in the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, religious groups, civil service, and by functioning as County Veterans Service Officers in 29 states to help fellow former service members access more than $52 billion in federal health, disability and compensation benefits each year; and
WHEREAS, approximately 200,000 service members transition to civilian communities annually; and an estimated 20 percent increase of service members will transition to civilian life in the near future; and
WHEREAS, active military service members transitioning from military service are at a high risk for suicide during their first year after military service; and
WHEREAS, the National Association of Counties encourages all counties, parishes and boroughs to recognize Operation Green Light for Veterans; and
WHEREAS, Susquehanna County appreciates the sacrifices of our United States military personnel and believes specific recognition should be granted;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, with designation as a Green Light for Veterans County, Susquehanna County hereby declares November 4-11, 2026, as a time to salute and honor the service and sacrifices of those transitioning from active service; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that in observance of Operation Green Light, Susquehanna County will light green lights on the front of the County Courthouse; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Susquehanna County encourages its citizens in patriotic tradition to recognize the importance of honoring all those who made immeasurable sacrifices to preserve freedom by displaying green lights in a window of their place of business or residence from November 4-11, 2026.
Operation Green Light for Veterans is a nationwide initiative where community’s light buildings and homes green to honor and support veterans.
Operation Green Light for Veterans is led by the National Association of Counties (NACo) and the National Association of County Veterans Service Officers (NACVSO) to show appreciation for veterans and raise awareness of the challenges they face transitioning to civilian life. Each year, from November 4 to 11, counties, cities, civic organizations, and individuals across the United States illuminate buildings, bridges, landmarks, and homes in green. The color green symbolizes hope, renewal, and progress, reflecting the support and encouragement communities offer to veterans.
Purpose and Impact
The initiative serves as a visual reminder that veterans are seen, valued, and supported. Beyond lighting displays, participating counties often use the week to connect veterans with local resources, including employment, housing, healthcare, and educational benefits. The campaign also encourages public engagement through social media, local news, and community events, creating a nationwide show of solidarity
How to Participate
- Counties and local governments can pass resolutions declaring participation and illuminate public buildings and landmarks in green
- Individuals and businesses can replace porch or office lights with green bulbs and share photos using the hashtag #OperationGreenLight
- Community outreach can include contacting local veterans, promote awareness of services, and encourage others to join in the effort
History and Growth
Operation Green Light began in 2021 and has grown into a national movement, with hundreds of counties and national landmarks participating each year. Notable examples include the RSA Tower in Mobile, Alabama, the Morrison Bridge in Portland, Oregon, and the North Carolina State Capitol in Wake County.
Key Takeaway
Operation Green Light for Veterans is more than a symbolic gesture; it is a community-driven effort to honor service, provide support, and ensure veterans know they are appreciated and not alone. Participation is open to all, from local governments to individual citizens, making it a powerful way to show gratitude and solidarity with those who have served. (NACo)
Upcoming Veteran Events:
Free Haircuts for Veterans
Free Haircut and manicure for all Military and up to one guest, November 10th and November 12 appointments from 8:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m., call 570-278-6784 at Susquehanna County Career & Technology Center (SCCTC) at Elk Lake School District.
Veteran’s Day Free Breakfast
Montrose VFW Post 5642 Auxiliary is sponsoring a free breakfast to all Veterans on November 11, 2026, from 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Veterans can order items off the menu. Montrose VFW Post 5642 is located at 16972 State Route 706, Montrose, PA 18801.
Veteran’s Day Free Lunch
Montrose VFW Post 5642 is sponsoring a free lunch to all veterans on November 11, 2025. Veterans can order items off the menu. Montrose VFW Post 5642 is located at 16972 State Route 706, Montrose, PA 18801.
Montrose Area High School Veterans Day Program
November 11th, 2026 8:15-9:00 a.m. Veterans arrive and are served light breakfast
9:00-11:00 a.m. Veterans Day program saluting Veterans
MAHS Address: 75 Meteor Way, Montrose, PA 18801
RSVP forms available at Veterans Affairs office-Susquehanna County Courthouse Or call MAHS at 570-278-3731
Choconut Valley Elementary School
Veterans Day Assembly on November 11th @1:30 PM link for Veterans to register to attend: Click Here
Blue Ridge School District
Veterans Day Breakfast and Assembly 8:45 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Auditorium/Lobby
Montrose Area Lathrop Street Veterans Day Program
November 10th
Elk Lake High School Veterans Day Program
Monday, November 10th elementary in morning and high school in afternoon, parents only.
Forest City Regional High School Veterans Day Program
November 10th, veterans Lunch noon, assembly 1:30 p.m., veterans call high school at 570-785-2420 to register
Women Veterans Listening Sessions
Sunday November 22, 2026, 2:00-4:00 p.m., American Legion Gardner Warner Post 154, 14515 State Route 3001, Montrose PA 18801, sponsored by Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA), opportunity for women veterans to share their experiences, perspectives, and priorities. Guided conversation focused on access and awareness of benefits/services, health and well-being, economic stability, and community belonging. For women veterans who served in any branch, active duty, National Guard, or Reserves; in combat or stateside; during any era of service; and regardless of length of service or military occupation. Registration Link: Click Here
Gulf War/Global War on Terror Veterans’ Support Group
November 2nd and every, first Monday of Month at 5:30 p.m. at Lenox VFW.
Vietnam Support Group
November 2nd and November 16th, and every 1st, and 3rd Monday at 10:30 a.m. at Lenox VFW.
Veteran Individual Readjustment Vet Center Counseling
Lenox/Elk Mountain VFW Post 8488 call Rob at 570-239-5191
Java for Joes
November 12th & December 10th from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 at 798 Erie Ave Susquehanna, PA at the Erie & Main Coffee House the Second Thursday of the month, contact Melissa Dubas 607-765-1366
As always Susquehanna Veterans Affairs office is here to assist Veterans in accessing Veterans Administration and State benefits. We humbly thank all Veterans for their service and selfless sacrifice to this great country and noble experiment known as the United States of America.
Our office can be reached at the following:
P.O. Box 218 /31 Lake Avenue Montrose, PA 18801
(Courthouse-side entrance facing the green)
Phone: 570-278-5955 or 570-278-4600 Ext. 3045
Fax: 570-278-5977
Contact Information
Veterans Affairs
Department of Veterans Affairs
31 Lake Avenue (PO Box 218)
Montrose, PA 18801
Telephone: (570) 278-5955
Fax: (570) 278-5977
Jeffery Mead, Director / VSO