Somber Reminder

On every ship
At each mess
An unused solitary place setting
Mound of salt
Lemon wedge
A single rose in a vase
An inverted glass
An empty chair

Remembering those who are no longer with us
Unaccounted for
But always remembered

The table, set for one, is small
It symbolizes the frailty of one alone against their oppressor

The table cloth is white, symbolizing the purity of their intentions to respond to their country’s call to arms

The single red rose reminds us of the families and loved ones of our shipmates who keep the faith, awaiting their safe return

The crystal vase symbolizes the true core values for which they fought –

Honor, Courage and Commitment

The red ribbon tied prominently to the vase is reminiscent of the bracelet worn on the wrist and the ribbon upon the lapel and breast of thousands who bear witness to their unyielding determination to demand proper accountability for our missing

The slice of lemon to remind us of their bitter fate
The salt poured on the plate symbolic of their families’ tears as they wait

The glass is inverted
They cannot be with us tonight

The chair is empty
They are not here

…Remember

(It is tradition that as one passes this table, one removes his hat in respect)