A day of remembrance

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.