Bartow Post 0003

The Missing Man

Your attention is directed to the table located in a place of honor near the head of the banquet hall. It is a way of symbolizing the fact some of our friends are missing from our midst. They are unable to be with us this evening and so we remember them.
The table set for one is small - - it symbolizes the frailty of us all.
The tablecloth is white - - symbolic of the purity of their intentions to respond to their country's call to arms.
The single rose displayed in a vase reminds of the families and loved ones of our comrades who will not return.
The red ribbon, tied so prominently on the vase, is reminiscent of the red ribbon worn upon the lapel and breast of thousands who bear witness to the tragedy of POWs and MIAs and, with unyielding determination, demand a proper accounting for our missing.
A slice of lemon on the plate - - to remind us of their bitter fate.
There is salt upon the plate - - Symbolic of the tears of families and loved ones.
The glass is inverted - - they cannot toast with us tonight.
The chair is empty - - they are not here.

Tonight we take time to recall those who were our comrades-in-arms, we depend on them for aid and support. Let us remember all of our missing crewmembers and honor them as we stand for a moment of silence.