June 30, 2026
By Steuben County Spokesman Ed Van Stine
The Steuben County Legislature has officially proclaimed July 2026 as R.E.D. Friday Month, reaffirming the County’s unwavering support for the brave men and women of the United States Armed Forces who are currently deployed around the world.
The proclamation, issued by Legislature Chair Kelly H. Fitzpatrick on behalf of the Steuben County Legislature, encourages county employees, veterans, businesses, community organizations, and residents to wear red every Friday throughout the month of July as a visible show of appreciation and solidarity with deployed service members.
R.E.D. stands for “Remember Everyone Deployed.” The campaign serves as a simple yet powerful reminder that those serving far from home are not forgotten and that their sacrifices—and those of their families—are deeply appreciated.
“R.E.D. Friday is about unity, gratitude, and honoring the selfless commitment of the men and women who protect our freedoms,” said Chair Kelly H. Fitzpatrick. “By wearing red each Friday, we send a clear message to our deployed military personnel that Steuben County stands with them and remembers their service.”
According to the proclamation, the United States maintains approximately 1.3 million active-duty military personnel, with nearly 200,000 stationed overseas. These figures do not include troops serving in contingency operations, temporary deployments, or aboard naval vessels. Military deployments often place significant emotional and physical burdens on service members and their families, making community support especially meaningful.
