POW/MIA ceremony
[Props needed: small table, white table cloth, single rose in vase, red ribbon, lemon slice, salt, plate, glass, chair.]
[The table setting is described by a presenter as follows:]
You may have noticed this small table set in a place of honor. It is set for one... This table is our way of recognizing the kindred feeling that members of our profession of arms are missing from our midst.
Commonly called POW's or MIA's, we call them brothers. They are unable to be here with us and so we remember them.
This table set for one is small... It symbolizes the frailty of one prisoner against his oppressors.
The table cloth is white... Symbolizing the purity of their intentions to respond to their country's call to arms.
The single rose displayed in a vase... reminds us of the families and loved ones of our comrades in arms who keep faith while awaiting their return.
The red ribbon... tied so prominently on the vase is reminiscent of the red ribbon worn upon the lapels and breasts of thousands who bear witness to their unyielding determination to demand a proper accounting for our missing.
A slice of lemon... is on the bread plate to remind us of their bitter fate.
There is salt... upon the bread plate, symbolic of family tears as they wait.
The glass is inverted... They can not toast with us today.
The chair... The chair is empty... They are not here. REMEMBER! All of you who served with them and called them comrades. You who depend on their might and aid, and relied upon them. Do not forsake them... Pray for them and remember them.
