This table is our way of symbolizing 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, so this is how we remember them.

This table set for one is small — symbolizing the frailty of one prisoner against his or her suppressors.

The tablecloth is white — symbolizing the purity of their motives when they answered the call to duty.

The single red rose in the vase, displayed in the vase, reminds us of the life of each of the missing, and the loved ones and friends of these Americans who keep the faith, awaiting answers.

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

A slice of lemon on the bread plate is to remind us of the bitter fate of those captured or missing in a foreign field.

A pinch of salt symbolizes the tears endured by those missing and their families who seek answers.

The glass is inverted — to symbolize their inability to share this evening’s toast or supper.

The chair is empty — which reminds us they are missing.

Remember — all of you who are safe here today for what they have done.

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