From another list I am on - written by a retired military gentlemen.

>POW/MIA PRESENTATION TABLE
>
>As you entered the dining out this evening you may have
>noticed a small table in a place of honor near our head table. It
>is set for one. The military caste is filled with symbolism. This
>table is our way of symbolizing the fact that members of our
>profession of arms are missing from our midst. They are
>commonly called, POW/MIA, we call them brothers. They are
>unable to be with us this evening and so we remember them
>because of their incarceration.
>
>This table set for one is small, symbolizing the frailty of one
>prisoner alone against his oppressors. Remember!
>
>The tablecloth is white, symbolizing the purity of their
>intentions to respond to their country’s call to arms. Remember!
>
>The single rose displayed in a vase reminds us of the families
>and loved ones of our comrades-in-arms who kept the faith
>awaiting their return. Remember!
>
>The red ribbon tied so prominently on 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. Remember!
>
>A slice of lemon is on the bread plate to remind us of their bitter
>fate. Remember!
>
>There is salt upon the bread plate symbolic of the families’ tears
>as they wait. Remember!
>
>The glass is inverted, they cannot toast with us this night.
>Remember!
>
>The chair--the chair is empty--they are not here. Remember!
>~~~
>
>