Flags Fly High In Southold To Honor Coronavirus Heroes

SOUTHOLD, NY — Flags are flying high in Southold Town to honor the heroes who have emerged during the coronavirus pandemic.

Southold Town Supervisor Scott Russell, through a partnership with the Southold Village Merchants, asked that the town's department of public works display American flags along the Main Road in Southold Village two weeks earlier than usual.

Every year, American flags are put on display by the Southold Village Merchants shortly before Memorial Day; however, Russell requested that they be put in place on May 1 as a tribute to those who have given, and continue to give, so much of themselves to the people of Southold.

"How can you ever truly express the gratitude, the appreciation and deep respect we have for those who are giving so much?" Russell asked. "This is a small measure, but one that will hopefully serve as a visual reminder, to all of us, of the sacrifices our first responders and our healthcare workers are making on our behalves every day."

All have experienced the heartache caused by the spread of the COVID-19 virus, from those who have acquired the disease and experienced the effects it has caused, to the families and friends who have lost a loved one, a release said.

The crisis, Russell said, has meant the disruption of people’s daily lives and untold impacts on small businesses.

There have been sacrifices made, and there are still challenges that lie ahead, Russell said.

The decline in the spread of coronavirus over the past weeks is, no doubt, "the result of the commitment made by everyone to follow the guidelines to keep our community, our families and ourselves safe," he said.

"As we have moved through this pandemic, we have also seen greatness," Russell's release said. "Volunteers, business and community organizations who have stepped forward to those in need. We have also seen heroes. The healthcare workers and first responders who risk their own health, work tireless hours and have shown a deep commitment, care, and concern for the people."