The military cast is filled with symbolism.

A small table, set for one, is in a place of honor.  This table is our way of acknowledging that members of our proud profession of arms are missing from our midst.  They are those Killed in Action, Prisoners of War, and those that are listed as Missing in Action.  We call them brothers and sisters. They are unable to be with us this evening, so we remember them through the many symbols at this table.

The tablecloth is white, symbolizing the purity of their intentions to respond to their country's call to arms.

The single rose in the vase reminds us of those families and loved ones of our Comrades-in-Arms who have fallen. 

The red ribbon tied so prominently on the vase, is reminiscent of the red ribbon worn upon the lapel and breast of thousands who bear witness to their underlying determination to demand a proper accounting of our missing. 

A slice of lemon is on the bread plate, to remind us of their bitter fate. 

The salt is symbolic of the tears; theirs and ours. 

The glass is inverted; they cannot toast with us this night. 

The chair is empty; they are not here.

Remember, all of you who served with them and called them comrade, who depended upon their might and aid, and relied upon them, for surely they have not forgotten you.