05/25/2026
This Memorial Day weekend, let us pause to remember and honor the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to the United States of America. Their courage, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication to our country will continue to inspire generations to come to live with gratitude, purpose, and honor.
“Freedom does not come without a price. We may sometimes take for granted the many liberties we enjoy in America, but they have all been earned through the ultimate sacrifice paid by so many members of our armed forces.”
— Charlie Dent
Each Memorial Day, we display a Missing Man Table in our dining room as a tribute to those who never made it home. This special table serves as a powerful reminder that although they may be absent in person, they remain with us in spirit and memory.
Every item on the Missing Man Table carries deep meaning and symbolizes the emotions reserved for those who served and sacrificed:
• The white tablecloth symbolizes the purity of their motives when answering the call to serve.
• The single red rose reminds us of the lives of these Americans and of the loved ones and friends who continue to keep the faith while seeking answers.
• The yellow symbolizes our continued determination to account for those still missing.
• The slice of lemon reminds us of their bitter fate, captured or missing in a foreign land.
• The pinch of salt symbolizes the tears of the missing and their families who have endured years of uncertainty.
• The lighted candle reflects our hope and remembrance.
• The Bible represents the strength gained through faith to sustain us and our nation.
• The inverted glass symbolizes their inability to share a toast with us today.
• The empty chair reminds us of the seat that remains unclaimed at the table.
May we never forget the brave men and women who answered our nation’s call with honor and gave everything for the freedoms we enjoy each day.
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