Lord God, On this Memorial Day, we pause with grateful hearts to remember those who gave their lives in service to our nation. We thank You for their courage, their sacrifice, and their unwavering devotion to the cause of freedom. They stood in the face of danger so that others might live in peace, and their legacy endures in the liberties we hold dear. Lord, we lift up the families and friends who carry the weight of loss. Be near to them in their sorrow. Grant them comfort in their memories, strength in their days, and peace that surpasses understanding. Let them feel Your presence in quiet moments and know that their loved ones are not forgotten. May we, as a people, honor the fallen not only in word but in how we live; cherishing freedom, pursuing justice, and striving for unity. Help us to be worthy of the sacrifice that was made on our behalf. We entrust the souls of the departed to Your eternal care, confident in Your mercy and love.
Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. John 15:13 NIV
“I cherish the memories of a question my grandson asked me the other day when he said, ‘Grandpa, were you a hero in the war?’ Grandpa said ‘No… but I served in a company of heroes.’” – Major Richard Winters Easy Company 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment. Recalling a letter written to him.
Hold Fast, Spread the Word and God Save the Republic.
Each item on the Missing Man Table represents the emotions and feelings reserved for those who did not come home. The ceremony symbolizes that they are with us, here in spirit. All Americans should never forget the brave men and women who answered our nation’s call to serve and fought for our freedom with honor.
The symbolism of the Missing Man Table:
The table is round, to show our everlasting concern for our missing men.The cloth is white, symbolizing the purity of their motives when answering the call to serve.
The single red rose; displayed in a vase, reminds us of the lives of these Americans and their loved ones and friends who keep the faith while seeking answers.
The red ribbon symbolizes our continued determination to account for our missing.
A slice of lemon reminds us of their bitter fate; captured and missing in a foreign land.
A pinch of salt symbolizes the tears of our missing and their families who long for answers after decades of uncertainty.
The lighted candle reflects our hope for their return, alive or dead.
The Bible represents the strength gained through faith to sustain us and those lost from our country, founded as one nation under God.
The glass is inverted, symbolizing their inability to share a toast.
The chair is empty, the seat that remains unclaimed at the table.
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