BURRILLVILLE – You can find them at homes across town, blue and yellow banners waving in the wind, often just below Old Glory.
Residents in Burrillville have been showing support for Ukrainian forces amid ongoing attacks by Russia by flying the country’s flag. The sight has become increasingly familiar as war rages on in the Eastern European country, a Democracy since 1996.
And this week, town officials joined others in showing solidarity for the former soviet country, raising the Ukrainian flag in front of Burrillville Town Hall.
The flag went up outside the building at 105 Harrisville Main St. on Monday, May 16 following unanimous vote on by members of the Town Council at their meeting on Wednesday, May 11.
Councilor Raymond Trinque sponsored the motion “to fly the Ukraine flag to honor and support the brave people of Ukraine.”
As commander of Berard Desjarlais American Legion Post 88, Trinque led a successful drive to gather supplies for the country in March, filling a truck with necessities including first aid and hygiene items, donated mostly by Burrillville residents, in just two days.
Councilor Donald Fox, who traveled the region extensively during his time studying at St. Petersburg, has also helped to raise funds and awareness for the country’s plight with efforts that included a fundraiser at Bravo Brewing Company in March.
Trinque noted the blue and yellow banner won’t interfere with the town’s patriotic efforts as Memorial Day approaches.
“It doesn’t compete with the American flag,” he said, noting that the stars and stripes remain in their proper place at the top.
The move puts the town in line with what appears to be a growing movement throughout Burrillville. Flags could be seen this week on Black Hut Road, East Avenue, Pascoag Main Street and by White Mill Park.
The Ukrainian flag will remain in place outside Town Hall through Sunday, May 22.