The Missing Man Table, also known as the Fallen Comrade Table, is a semi-official place of honor in dining facilities of the US armed forces in memory of fallen, missing in action, or prisoner of war military service-members. Today we use this table to represent our fallen service men and women this Memorial Day. On this day we remember, but on each and every other day, may we never forget.
On the missing man table you will see:
The white tablecloth draped over the table represents the purity of their response to our country’s call to arms.
The empty chair depicts an unknown face, representing no specific Soldier, Sailor, Airman, or Marine, but all who are not here with us.
The table itself is round to show that our concern for them is never ending.
The Bible represents faith in our Lord and Savior and the pledge to our country, founded as one nation under God.
The black napkin stands for the emptiness left in the hearts of their families and friends of these warriors.
The single red rose signifies the blood they may have shed in sacrifice to ensure the freedom of our beloved United States of America. This rose, reminding us of the family and friends of our missing comrades who keep the faith, while awaiting their return.
The yellow candle and its yellow ribbon symbolize the everlasting hope for a joyous reunion with those still deployed and those missing and yet accounted for.
The slices of lemon on the plate remind us of their bitter fate of those passed, missing, captured and held as prisoners in foreign lands.
The salt upon the plate represents the tears of their families and loved ones.
The wine glass, turned upside down, reminds us that our distinguished comrades cannot be with us to drink a toast or join in the festivities today
