As you entered the dining area, you may have noticed a table at the front, raised to call your attention to its purpose.  This table is our way of symbolizing the fact that there are those who are missing from our midst. They are commonly called POWs or MIAs, we call them Brothers. They’re unable to be with us this day, so we remember them because of their incarceration.

Set for one, the empty place represents those Americans still missing from each of the five services -- Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force and Coast Guard.  This Honor's Ceremony symbolizes that they are with us here, in spirit.

I would like to explain the meaning of the items on this special table. 

The Table is set for one is small, symbolizing the frailty of one prisoner against his oppressors.

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The table is round -- to show our everlasting concern for our missing.

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The tablecloth is white -- symbolizing the purity of their intentions to respond to their country’s call to arms.

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The lone candle symbolizes the frailty of a prisoner, alone trying to stand up against his oppressors.

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The single red rose, displayed in a vase, reminds us of the life of each of the missing, as well as the loved ones and friends who keep the faith, awaiting their return.

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The yellow ribbon tied to the vase, is a symbol of our continued determination to account for our missing.

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A slice of lemon on the bread plate is to remind us of their bitter fate.

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A pinch of salt symbolizes the family’s tears as they wait.

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The Bible represents the strength gained through faith to sustain those lost from our country, founded as one nation under God.

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The glass is inverted – they cannot toast with us this day.

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The chair, the chair is empty -- they are missing.

Remember all of who served with them and called them comrades, who depended on their might and aid, and relied upon them, for surely they have not forsaken you.