10/07/2026
Submitted by Doug Reeves
POW/MIA Table
I attended the 2026 Jack Sanders Banquet. It was enjoyable, good food, drink, conversation and presentations.
I learned something I had never known. There was a table set up as the POW/MIA Table.
The tradition of setting a separate table in honor of our prisoners of war and missing comrades has been in place since the end of the Vietnam War. The manner in which the table is decorated is full of special symbols to help us remember our brothers and sisters in arms.
The round table shows that our concern for them is never ending.
The white tablecloth represents the purity of their response to our country’s call to arms.
The Bible represents faith in a higher power and the pledge to our country, founder 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.
The yellow ribbon represents the yellow ribbons worn by the thousands who demand, with unyielding determination, a proper accounting of our comrades who are not with us today.
The candle is reminiscent of the light of hope which lives in our hearts to illuminate their way home, away from their captors. To the open a***s of a Grateful Nation.
The Slices of Lemon on the bread plate represents the tears of their families.
The inverted w**e glasses remind us that our distinguished comrades cannot be with us to drink a toast or join in the festivities of today.
The chairs are empty. But they are here in spirit and mind.
The American Flag reminds us that many of them may never return – and have paid the supreme sacrifice to ensure our freedom.
Let us pray that all our comrades will soon be back within our ranks. Let us remember and never forget their sacrifices. May God forever watch over them and protect them and their families.
