As you entered the banquet hall this evening, you may have noticed a small table here in a place of honor near our head table. It is set for one. Please let me explain. The military caste is filled with symbolism. This table is our way of symbolizing the fact that members of our profession of arms are missing from our midst. They are commonly referred to as P.O.W./M.I.A. We call them "Brothers". They are unable to be with us this evening, and so we remember them because of their incarceration.

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This TABLE set for one is small - symbolizing the frailty of one prisoner alone against his oppressors.

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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 single 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.

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The RED RIBBON tied so prominently on the vase is reminiscent of the red ribbon worn on the lapel and breasts of thousands who bear witness to their unyielding determination to demand a proper accounting of our missing.

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A SLICE OF LEMON is on the bread plate to remind us of their bitter fate.

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There is SALT upon the bread plate - symbolic of their families' tears as they wait.

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The GLASS is inverted - they can not toast with us this night.

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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.


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http://www.homeofheroes.com/hallofheroes/1st_floor/flag/1bfb_disp9cc.html

http://regimentalrogue.tripod.com/srsub/mess_dinner_organization_c.htm

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toast_%28honor%29