Norwich — "Operation Blue Light" is in full swing in Norwich.

The Norwich Police Volunteer Chaplain Unit is making single blue light bulbs available free to the public during the 2018 Christmas season.

The purpose of this program is to offer nondenomination spiritual and community support to Norwich police officers and Connecticut state troopers. It is meant to serve as a visible source of encouragement for all law enforcement whenever they see a single blue light burning bright during their evening and night patrols.

It also sends a message of "thanks" to those who place their lives on the line every time they pull out of the station. Some people choose to leave their blue lights burning throughout the year as a continual sign of gratitude.

Distribution sites include the service desks of Big Y on the Salem Turnpike, Shop Rite on West Main Street and Stop & Shop on Town Street. Bulbs also are available in the lobby of the Norwich Police Department, at Olde Tymes Restaurant, Tulli’s Restaurant and Jack’s Brick Oven Pizza.

Each bulb may be placed in an electric or battery-operated candle holder and displayed in a window of either a residence or business.