POW/MIA

You are not forgotten. This is the core tenet of our recognition of Prisoners of War (POW) and those Missing in Action (MIA). 

 

As a nation, we owe it to those who served our country to never stop searching for them and to bring them home. Since World War II, almost 82,000 Americans are still missing from wars and conflicts such as the Korean War, Vietnam War, and Cold War. The efforts of our country to account for these brave men and women remains constant. 

We remember our POW/MIA members through a ceremony at the beginning of formal military functions through setting a table for one.

 

   

 

“As you entered the banquet hall this evening, you may have noticed a small table in a place of  honor. It is set for one. This table is our way of symbolizing the fact that members of our profession of arms are missing from our midst. They are commonly called POWs or MIAs, we  call them "Brothers." They are unable to be with us this evening and so we remember them.

 

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 Red Rose displayed in a vase reminds us of the families and loved ones of our comrades‐in‐arms who keep the faith awaiting their return … Remember.

 

The Yellow Ribbon tied so prominently on the vase is reminiscent of the yellow 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.

 

The Candle, the candle is lit ‐‐ Symbolizing the upward reach of their unconquerable spirit … 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 the 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.    

 

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

 

Until the day they come home … Remember.”