The POW/MIA Remembrance Table, like the one pictured here in Post 377 in Independence Township, honors members of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and Coast Guard who are still missing after serving the United States. Below is an explanation of the items from the table adapted from the plaque at Post 377.
The small table represents the frailty of one prisoner, alone against his suppressors.
The white table cloth symbolizes the purity of their intentions to respond to their country’s call to arms.
The single red rose in a vase signifies the blood they may have shed in sacrifice to ensure the freedom of our beloved United States of America. This red rose with red ribbon tied to the vase also reminds us of the family and friends of our missing comrades who keep faith, while awaiting their return.
A slice of lemon on the plate reminds us of their bitter fate.
The salt sprinkled on the plate reminds us of the countless fallen tears of the families as they wait.
The glass is inverted (upside down) to remind us that they cannot toast us at this time.
The chair is empty to remind us our comrades aren’t here.
The lit candle is reminiscent of the light of hope, which lives in our hearts to illuminate their way home, away from captors to open arms of a grateful nation.
The American Flag reminds us that many of them may never return and have paid the supreme sacrifice to insure our freedom.