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A Day For Reconciliation

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By LISA A. DAVIS

The Tampa Tribune

Published: May 27, 2008

ZEPHYRHILLS - Ben Youmans says Memorial Day isn't what it used to be.

But it should be.

Its meaning, he says, has been lost in the revelry of a three-day weekend that mostly consists of mini-getaways, beach breaks and barbecues. It seems to be better known as an extra day off from work, rather than the remembrance of those who have served in the U.S. military and made the ultimate sacrifice for freedom.

"Some people think that the day is just for remembering any and all of those dead and not just those who have died in service," he said.

Youmans' message at Monday's Memorial Day ceremony at Oakside Cemetery was to remember the day's true meaning.

After scouring the Internet for help, he used his time as guest speaker to remind the crowd of at least 150 men, women and children how Memorial Day began. Many cities and towns across the country claim to be the birthplace of the holiday, he said, but it was officially proclaimed by Gen. John Logan, national commander of the Grand Army of the Republic on May 5, 1868, and observed May 30.

"It is not important who was the very first, what is important is that Memorial Day was established," Youmans said, quoting from usmemorialday .org. "Memorial Day is not about division. It is about reconciliation; it is about coming together to honor those who gave their all."

Youmans, adjutant of VFW Post 8154 in Zephyrhills, did two tours in Vietnam during his service in the Army infantry from 1966 and 1973, retiring as a captain. He remembers his buddies lost and those who have been fighting for our country since. He wants others to remember on future Memorial Days.

One way to do that, he said, would be to move its observance back to the original date of May 30, rather than building in a three-day weekend.

"It made it easier for people to become distracted from the meaning of the date," he told the crowd standing among the moss-filled oaks and under the bright sun. "I'm proud to stand here today in front of all of you and know that this has not occurred in Zephyrhills and it never will."

This year's annual event at Oakside Cemetery featured a flyover by Ye Mystic AirKrewe of Tampa at 10 a.m. with the missing-man formation. A wreath ceremony was held by the East Pasco United Veterans Council, the sponsors of the remembrance, with representatives from each post pinning a ribbon on a wreath.

A gun salute, followed by taps, echoed in the cemetery, which was adorned with flags in front of the headstones of more than 900 veterans' graves from at least six wars.

When it was over, Randy and Cheryl Kehrmeyer, who brought their two sons, Ryan, 9, and Jake, 4, to Zephyrhills from their home in Valrico, hugged Youmans. The family was dressed in red, white and blue.

"I think it's very important to teach our children about the sacrifices of the U.S. military personnel and not to take their freedom for granted," said Randy Kehrmeyer, who works with Youmans in Tampa.

As Ryan stood near a tombstone, it seemed the lesson was sinking in.

"It's honoring those who lost their lives protecting the country," he said, scanning the cemetery.

Reporter Lisa A. Davis can be reached at (727) 815-1083 or ldavis@tampatrib.com.

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