The Fallen Soldier's Table

A Christmas tradition I started for my family was to set an extra place at the table, set for the fallen soldiers.

"One small table, occupying a place of dignity and honor near the head table. It is set for one, symbolizing the fact that members of our armed forces are missing from our ranks. They are referred to as POWs and MIAs.

We call them comrades. They are unable to be with their loved ones and families today, so we join together to pay humble tribute to them and to bear witness to their continued absence.

This table, set for one, is small; symbolizing the frailty of one prisoner alone against his suppressors.

The tablecloth is white, the purity of their intentions to respond to their country's call to arms.

The single red rose in the vase signifies the blood they may have shed in sacrifice to ensure the freedom of our beloved United States of America.

The rose also reminds us of the family and friends of our missing comrades who keep the faith, while waiting for their return.

The yellow ribbon on the vase represents the yellow ribbons worn on the lapels of the thousands who demand with unyielding determination a proper accounting of our comrades who are not among us today.

A slice of lemon on the napkin reminds us of their bitter fate.

The salt sprinkled on the plate reminds us of the countless fallen tears of families as they wait.

The glass is inverted - they cannot toast with us today.

The chair is empty - they are not here.

The candle is reminiscent of the light of hope which lives in our hearts to illuminate their way home from their captors, to the open arms of a grateful nation.

Let us pray to the supreme commander that all our comrades will be back within our ranks.

Let us remember and never forget their sacrifices.

May God forever watch over them and protect them and their families."

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