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Gone but not forgotten.....
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in remembrance of our fallen comrades... The table, set for one, symbolizing the frailty of one person, one service man, alone, against his or her oppressors: it is round, showing that our concern for them is never ending. The chair is empty - They are not here. The glass is inverted - They will not drink with us tonight. Upon the plate is a slice of lemon, and a sprinkling of salt. The lemon reminds us of the bitterness they feel, the salt symbolizes the tears of families as they wait. The yellow candle symbolizes the everlasting hope for a joyous reunion with those yet unaccounted for. The red rose is for those who made the ultimate sacrifice: they gave their lives for this country. The white rose is for those of us who returned alive. The yellow rose is for those who are still missing in action. The red and yellow ribbons, tied on the vase, are reminiscent of the ribbons worn upon the lapels of thousands who demand a proper accounting of our missing. The black napkin stands for the emptiness these warriors have left in the hearts of their families and friends. The Bible represents faith in a higher power and the pledge to this country - which was founded as one nation under God. The tablecloth is white, symbolizing the purity of their intentions to respond to their countries call to arms. Remember, all of you, who served with them and called them Brother/ Sister - They represent the highest level of commitment to defending the principles of freedom that have made our nation great. For surely...they have not forsaken you. Throughout this ceremony let the candle’s flame represent their presence in our hearts and let it’s light shine as a beacon of our resolve to never let these members of our Armed Forces be forgotten.
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