| Four Seasons Hemet Herald | NOVEMBER 2020 | 7
The POW MIA Remembrance
As you enter the Lodge, you may have noticed a small table in a
place of honor. It is set for one. This table is our way of symbolizing
the fact that members of our profession of arms are missing from
our midst. They are commonly called POWs or MIAs, we call them
"Brothers." They are unable to be with us this evening and so we
remember them.
This table set for one is small — symbolizing the frailty of one
prisoner alone against his oppressors… Remember!
The tablecloth is white — symbolizing the purity of their
intentions to respond to their country's call to arms… Remember!
The single red 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 yellow ribbon tied so prominently on the vase is reminiscent
of the yellow ribbon worn upon the lapel and breasts of thousands
who bear witness to their unyielding determination to demand a
proper accounting of our missing… Remember!
The candle, the candle is lit — symbolizing the upward reach of
their unconquerable spirit… Remember!
A slice of lemon is on the bread plate to remind us of their bitter
fate… Remember!
There is salt upon the bread plate — symbolic of the families'
tears as they wait… Remember!
The glass is inverted — they cannot toast with us this night…
Remember!
The chair – the chair is empty. They are not here… Remember!
All of you who 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… Remember!
Remember!
Until the day they come home… Remember!
