Remember the Fallen
Memorial Table
The table is smaller than the others symbolizing the frailty of one prisoner alone against their oppressors.
The white tablecloth represents the purity of their response to our country's call.
The empty chair depicts an unknown face, representing no specific Soldier, Sailor, Marine or Airman, but all who are not here with us.
The table 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.
The single red rose reminds us of their families and loved ones; and 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 unaccounted for.
The slices of lemon on the bread plate reminds us of their bitter fate.
The salt upon the bread plate represents 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.
Let us honor America's POWs, MIAs, and those who cannot be with us now and to the success of our efforts to account for them...
"There is more testing and sacrifice before us," Bush said of the war that has claimed more than 2,100 American lives so far.
"This election will not mean the end of violence," Bush said. "But it is the beginning of something new: constitutional democracy at the heart of the Middle East." --- I hope so or all 2,156 of these soldiers will have lost their lives for politics instead of for freedom..
http://www.cnn.com/SPECIALS/2003/iraq/forces/casualties/