Tariq Malik
HUNTINGTON BEACH -- For the first time in the city's history, the
American flag will fly at the Huntington Beach Pier this weekend.
In honor of Veterans Day on Saturday, 54 flags sponsored by veterans
or in their memory will line the pier during a special ceremony.
"I think a majority of people want to say thanks to veterans for what
they've done for our country, but they don't always have the chance,"
said Vi Cowden, 84, who has spent almost a year organizing the event.
"Every department has had a hand in putting this together, and it should
be a wonderful experience."
Last Christmas, Cowden was walking along the pier and admiring the
lighted snowflakes on display. For the World War II veteran who was part
of the Women Airforce Service Pilots and one of the first women to fly
pursuit planes in the military, it was a moment of inspiration.
"In my mind's eye, I just saw them become American flags and thought
it would be a great idea for Veterans Day," she said.
Working with Councilwoman Pam Julien, police officers and other
officials, Cowden has put her heart into the day of remembrance, hoping
that residents will also remember to display flags at their homes in
observance of the day.
In addition to 53 American flags, one flag honoring prisoners of war
will also be unfurled, said Naida Osline, special events director for the
city.
"I think it's a beautiful, poetic gesture for our veterans," Osline
said. "A lot of people get Veterans Day off without really understanding
why they get the day off. With the flags flying, I think they'll get the
idea."
Saturday's hourlong ceremony will begin at 11 a.m. on the pier, at the
intersection of Main Street and Pacific Coast Highway, with free parking
available between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. in the Pier Plaza parking lot.
Vehicles should enter at the 6th Street entrance.
