Flint Hill
"MISSING MAN TABLE"
The MISSING MAN TABLE, also known as the Fallen Comrade Table, is steeped in symbolism and is featured in solemn ceremonies honoring our fallen, missing or imprisoned U.S Military Service Members.
Each item on the Missing Man Table represents the emotions and feelings reserved for those who did not come home. This ceremony symbolizes that they are with us, here in spirit. All Americans should never forget the brave men and women who answered our nations call to serve and fought for our freedom with honor.
THE SYMBOLISM OF THE MISSING MAN TABLE:
The table is round, to show our everlasting concern for our missing men. The table set for one, is small, symbolizing the frailty of one solider alone.
The tablecloth is white, symbolic of the purity of their intentions to respond to their country's call to arms.
The black napkin represents the sorrow of captivity.
The single red rose, displayed in a vase, signifies the blood that many have shed to ensure the freedom of the United States of America. The rose also reminds us of their loved ones and friends of missing comrades who keep the faith while seeking answers and awaiting their return.
The red ribbon tied on the vase symbolizes our continued determination to account for our missing.
A slice of lemon reminds us of their bitter fate; captured and missing in a foreign land.
A pinch of salt symbolizes the tears of our missing and their families who long for answers after decades of uncertainty.
The lighted candle is reminiscent of the light of hope that lives in our hearts to illuminate their way home, away from their captures to the open arms of a grateful nation., The yellow ribbon tied on the candle represents the yellow ribbons worn on the lapels of thousands who demand a proper accounting of our comrades who are not among us today.
The Bible represents the strength gained through faith to sustain us and those lost from our country, founded as one nation under God.
The glass inverted, symbolizes their inability to share a toast.
The chair is empty, the seat that remains unclaimed at the table.
It is our prayer that those of our church family who gave of themselves so generously sacrificed so very much to insure the freedom that we all hold so dear.. Know how much we appreciate them!!! Thank you from the bottom of our hearts! May God bless you beyond your belief!!!!
