More than a Final Farewell for the VA veterans on Memorial Day, at Bay Pines VA National Cemetery
"With an annual Memorial Day ceremony held on Monday, May 25, 2026, at Bay Pines National Cemetery, in Pinellas County, remembering our veterans is more than a final farewell. Instead, finding a still moment in the distance to honor those who dedicated their services, across the generations for our country.
"And why raising the flag for my Dad, serves as more than a decoration for the occasion. With a simple way of saying goodbye, "I've got to go now," were Robert Howley's powerful final words, leaving a message for our family and friends. Communication will never end, when we lead with Army intelligence, and adapt to change."
"With a new Executive Director and CEO of the Bay Pines VA Medical center this year, Mr. David J. VanMeter has found that the holiday brought him deep reflection, like many Americans. “It was moving to observe so many of my fellow citizens – most of us strangers to each other – united by the common thread of gratitude.”
“Offering approximately 1,500 members of the community a moment to gather and reflect; the ceremony was a success, with keynote speaker and Gold Star father, Carlos del Castillo. Honoring his son, with love for his country, 1st Lt. Dimitri A. del Castillo, U.S. Army Ranger, 24, was killed in action in 2011, while serving in Kunar, Afghanistan.”
“It was not glory that drove [our fallen service members] to their fate, but love – love of God, love of country, love of their fellow soldiers, love of the American people, and love of our American way of life.” said del Castillo.
“How we choose to continue and address our patriotism and democracy, may be what will determine our hope and expectations, for the future of our veterans, and how we continue to connect with the VA at Bay Pines.”
“Has a veteran changed your life? We just might return their services with a donation, time, and interest; in the VA Bay Pines, with volunteer opportunities for youth organizations, and veteran affairs."