The White Table is a symbol to recognize the fact that military service-members are missing, whether POW or MIA. The table is set for one, symbolizing the frailty of one prisoner alone against their oppressors. The cloth is white to symbolize the purity of their intentions to respond to their country’s call to arms. There is a single red rose to remind us of the families and loved ones of our comrades-in-arms who keep the faith awaiting for their return. The red ribbon tied to the vase is reminiscent of the red ribbon worn upon the lapel and breasts of thousands who bear witness to their unyielding determination to demand a proper accounting of our missing. A candle is lit to symbolize the upward reach of their unconquerable spirit. A slice of lemon is on the bread plate to remind us of their bitter fate and the salt upon the plate is symbolic of the families’ tears as they wait. The glass is inverted and the chair is empty. They cannot join us today, they are not here. Remember. Until the day they come home, remember.
Several members of the United States Air Force joined Montgomery Catholic for the ceremony including Lt. Col. Bill Lynch, Maj. Jade Spurgeon, M.D., Maj. Michael Boe, Col. David Cool, Lt. Col. Andrew D’Ippolito, Lt. Col. Steve Sugiyama, and Lt. Col. Keith Logeman. The faculty, staff, and students thanked our special guests for their sacrifice and service to our great nation and for attending the White Table Ceremony.
Submitted by Mary Kelley
