POW/MIA Day - just pause a moment

[Capt MJ]

Many of us know if you see a table set for one today, what the underlying symbolism is.

Pause a moment to read this and think of those who trod this path of service.

​ ​ ​ This Table set for one is small, symbolizing the frailty of one prisoner alone against his oppressors. Remember! The White Tablecloth draped over the table represents the purity of their response to Our Country's call to arms. Remember! The Empty Chair depicts an unknown face, representing no specific Soldier, Sailor, Airman or Marine, but all who are not here. Remember! The Black Napkin stands for the emptiness these warriors have left in the hearts of their families and friends. Remember! The single Red Rose reminds us of their families and loved ones. The Red Ribbon represents the love of Our Country, which inspired them to answer the nation's call. Remember! The Yellow Candle and its Yellow Ribbon symbolize the everlasting hope for a joyous reunion with those yet accounted for. Remember! The Slices of Lemon on the bread plate remind us of their bitter fate. Remember! The Salt upon the bread plate represents the tears of their families. Remember! The Wine Glass turned upside down, reminds us that Our Uniformed American Heroes cannot be with us to drink a toast or join in the festivities of the day. Remember! 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! Until the day they come home, Remember!​ ​ ​ ​ ​

 

[OldRetSWO]

Just got back from an annual 24hr POW/MIA vigil that take place at a local Vets memorial. I usually don't stay for
all 24 but am there for a few hours on each end of the event.

 

[UHBlackhawk]

DW’s grandfather was shot down over Vietnam toward the tail end of WWII in July 1945. The other aircraft assumed no one survived the crash but he along with several other crew members survived and were captured by the Japanese. Some of the crew was so badly burned that the Japanese killed them immediately, but he was never bitter about it. He felt they were in agony and probably wouldn’t have survived.
As an officer he was given the “honor” of being beheaded, but due to the burns he suffered in the crash it was put off. I guess it’s against Bushido to execute someone who is delirious with fever.
When he came out of his delirium the war was over.
The Navy well... being the Navy they never updated his status so his wife thought he was KIA. Until he got home in December 1945.

 

[AF6872]

I still have my POW/MIA bracelet fifty years later. Don't wear it but it is in the memory box.