Lest We Forget

I wanted to share this because no matter how many times I see this ceremony performed; it is always very moving. This remembrance makes patriotic holidays even more meaningful. I pray that as we all celebrate at holiday events we never forget those who have sacrificed so much and their families that wait for their return.

Below is the script that is read for the ceremony. I what I have printed is the way I've heard it presented most often. There can be modifications and more formal presentations.

As you entered the room, you may have noticed a table at the front, raised to call your attention to its purpose. Those who have served and those currently serving the uniformed services of the United States are ever mindful that the sweetness of enduring peace has always been tainted by the bitterness of personal sacrifice. We are compelled to never forget that while we enjoy our daily pleasures, there are others who have endured and may still be enduring the agonies of pain, deprivation and internment.

We call your attention to this small table, which occupies a place of dignity and honor near the center of activity and to remind all Americans to never forget Servicemembers and civilians who have answered our nation’s call and served the cause of freedom in a special way. At this time, I would like to explain the meaning of the items on this special table.

The table is reserved to honor those missing from this event. It is round to show our everlasting concern for our men and women who remain missing. The table is set for one, symbolizing the frailty of one captive alone against his or her suppressors. The chair is empty to remind us of their physical absence.

The tablecloth is white, symbolic of the purity of their motives when responding to the country’s call to duty.

The single red rose in the vase, signifies the blood they may have shed in sacrifice to ensure the freedom of our beloved United States of America. This rose also reminds us of the family and friends of our missing who keep the faith, while awaiting their return.

The yellow ribbon on the vase represents the yellow ribbons worn on the lapels of the thousands who demand with unyielding determination a proper accounting of our loved ones who are not among us at this time.

The Bible represents the strength gained through faith to sustain those missing and their families who seek answers from our country, founded as one nation under God.

The candle is reminiscent of the light of hope which lives in our hearts to illuminate their way home, away from their oppressors, to the open arms of family and a grateful nation.

A slice of lemon on the plate is to remind us of the bitter fate of those who are missing.

The pinch of salt sprinkled on the plate reminds us of the countless tears shed by families as they wait.

The glass is inverted for they cannot toast with us at this event.

Let us pray to God that all of our loved ones will soon be back with us. Let us remember and never forget their sacrifices.

May God forever watch over them and protect them and their families.