As you entered the dining area this evening, you may have noticed a
small table in the place of honor near our head table. It is set for
one. The military caste is filled with symbolism. This table is our way
of symbolizing the fact that the members of our profession of arms are
missing from our midst. They are commonly called, POW/MIA. We call them
brothers. They are unable to be with us this evening and so we remember
them because of their incarceration.
This table set for one is small, symbolizing the frailty of one prisoner
alone against his oppressors. Remember!
The tablecloth is white, symbolizing the purity of their intentions to
respond to their country’s call to arms. Remember!
The single rose displayed in a vase reminds us of the families and loved
ones of our comrades-in-arms who kept the faith awaiting their return.
Remember!
The red ribbon tied so prominently on the vase is reminiscent of the red
ribbon worn upon the lapel and breasts of thousands who bear witness to
their unyielding determination to demand a proper accounting of our
missing. Remember!
A slice of lemon is on the bread plate to remind us of their bitter
fate. Remember!
There is salt upon the bread plate symbolic of families’ tears as they
wait. Remember!
The glass is inverted, they cannot toast with us this night. Remember!
The chair, the chair is empty, they are not here. Remember!
_____
thank you,
john
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