Official Home of American Amphibious Force Association

Missing Man Table

As you entered the banquet hall this evening, you may have noticed a small table in a place of honor.  It is set for one.  There are flags of each of our armed forces, Army, Navy, Marine corps, Air Force, Coast Guard, and a POW/MIA flag symbolizing the fact that members of our profession are missing from our midst.  We call them “Our Brothers and Sisters”.  They are unable to be with us this evening and so we remember them.

The table set for one is small symbolizing the frailty of one woman or man, one prisoner alone against their oppressors.

The tablecloth is white symbolizing the purity of their intention to their country’s call to arms.

The single red rose displayed in a vase reminds us of the families and loved ones of our comrades-in-arms who keep the faith remembering them or awaiting their return.

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

The candle is lit symbolizing the upward reach of their unconquerable spirit.

A slice of lemon is on the bread plate to remind us of their bitter fate.

There is salt upon the bread symbolizing their tears as they wait and remember.

The glass is inverted as they can not toast with us this tonight.

The chair is empty.  Thy are not here.

Remember all of us that served with them, called them comrades, depended on them. Until we meet again – Remember.

And let us remember especially the members of our association who have gone to their final reward.