You see before you an empty table, set for service but vacant. This table is symbolic of our fallen comrades-in-arms and those whose fate is still unknown.

It is set with eight chairs – one each for the members of the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard, as well as for Fire Fighters, Police Officers and Civilians.

The table is round, symbolizing our everlasting concern for those still missing. REMEMBER.

The table cloth is white, symbolizing the purity of their intentions in responding to their country’s call to arms. REMEMBER.

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

The red ribbon tied so prominently on the vase is reminiscent of the red ribbon worn on the lapel and breasts of thousands, bearing witness to their unyielding demand for a proper accounting of our missing. REMEMBER.

A slice of lemon is on the bread plate, symbolic of their bitter fate. REMEMBER.

There is salt upon the bread plate, symbolic of the family’s tears as they wait. REMEMBER.

The glass is inverted, for they cannot toast with us this night. REMEMBER.

The chairs – the chairs are empty – they are not here. REMEMBER.

REMEMBER – all of you served with them and called them comrades, who depended upon their might and aid, and relied upon them, for surely, they have not forsaken you.