THE POW MIA TABLE
During the Month of May we remember those lost but not forgotten and our POWs. Those few proud Americans whom have served their Nation, and answered her her call know that Memorial Day is so much more….
When I went to Navy Recruit Training (Boot Camp) back in Great Lakes in 1997 I remember at the first meal in the galley some recruit had the gall to ask about the empty table, and what was that all about. Well BM1(SW) didn’t take to kindly to this game of “question and answer” and upon return to our “ship’s compartment” we began to “make it rain” and atone for our sins. Sometime later after we were all covered in sweat and BM1 grew bored with the game’s afoot he sat us down and gave a history lesson that we would never forget!
It started out something like this, you may have enlisted in the Navy thinking that you would never have to worry about much other than “three hots and a cot”, however there have been many Sailors throughout our Nation’s History that have paid the ultimate sacrifice, and many more whom have been taken prisoner, or whose families never got closure as there was no body recovered and the Sailor was listed as “Missing in Action” (MIA).
Senator John McCain, himself a Navy Veteran of the Vietnam War served as a Prisoner of War (POW) in the Infamous Hanoi Hilton alongside VADM Stockdale who was awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions and leadership while imprisoned.
If you’ve ever been to a military ball, stepped inside a chow hall, or attended an event at a military veterans association in your local community, you’ve likely noticed the small, round table that is always set but never occupied the (POW/MIA) table.
The tradition of setting a separate table in honor of our prisoners of war and missing comrades has been in place since the end of the Vietnam War. The manner in which this table is decorated is full of special symbols to help us remember our brothers and sisters in arms. To help bridge the generation gap, and ensure understanding of the tradition a poem is read symbolizing the importance of this lone table.
The POW/MIA table is smaller than the others, symbolizing the frailty of one prisoner alone against his or her oppressors. This table is separate from the others and can be set for one to four place settings to represent each service participating in the event.
- The white tablecloth draped over the table represents the purity of their response to our country’s call to arms.
- The empty chair depicts an unknown face, representing no specific Soldier, Sailor, Airman, or Marine, but all who are not here with us.
- The table itself is round to show that our concern for them is never ending.
- The Bible represents faith in a higher power and the pledge to our country, founded as one nation under God.
- The black napkin stands for the emptiness these warriors have left in the hearts of their families and friends. A Purple Heart medal can be pinned to the napkin.
- 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.
- The yellow candle and its yellow ribbon symbolize the everlasting hope for a joyous reunion with those yet accounted for.
- The slices of lemon on the bread plate remind us of their bitter fate.
- The salt upon the bread plate represent the tears of their families.
- The wine glass, turned upside down, reminds us that our distinguished comrades cannot be with us to drink a toast or join in the festivities of the evening.
The significance of the POW/MIA table is called to attention during the toast of the evening. This is an important part of many military banquets to remind us that the strength of those who fight for our country often times rests in the traditions that are upheld today.
As we celebrate the month of May as out “Military Appreciation Month” take the time to reflect on why that small, lone table is there, and what it means and raise a glass for our fallen comrades. For the are not forgotten and we shall see them again!
