Post by RedFlag32 on May 5, 2007 19:11:48 GMT
Communist symbol returns to Russian Army's flag
Russia's Parliament has voted to restore the communist-era hammer and
sickle to the official flag of the Russian Army.
It is expect President Vladimir Putin will ratify the move in time for
next week's commemorations marking the end of World War II in Europe.
If so, Russians will again have the Soviet version of the victory banner
for next week's Victory in Europe parade in Moscow.
For many Russians, especially the elderly, its symbolism is immense.
The red banner, together with the hammer, sickle and a white star, was the
one raised on the Reichstag roof on May 1, 1945.
Millions of people all over the world know that photograph, but in Russia
its significance is much deeper, with the Soviet victory over fascism in
World War II remaining something seen in almost religious terms.
- BBC
Russia's Parliament has voted to restore the communist-era hammer and
sickle to the official flag of the Russian Army.
It is expect President Vladimir Putin will ratify the move in time for
next week's commemorations marking the end of World War II in Europe.
If so, Russians will again have the Soviet version of the victory banner
for next week's Victory in Europe parade in Moscow.
For many Russians, especially the elderly, its symbolism is immense.
The red banner, together with the hammer, sickle and a white star, was the
one raised on the Reichstag roof on May 1, 1945.
Millions of people all over the world know that photograph, but in Russia
its significance is much deeper, with the Soviet victory over fascism in
World War II remaining something seen in almost religious terms.
- BBC