Prince George's County Restaurants Honor Fallen, Missing Soldiers

PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY, MD — Restaurants across Maryland are honoring fallen and missing soldiers this Memorial Day Weekend by creating "Missing Man" tables set in their dining rooms — a tradition that people across the U.S. have done since the end of the Vietnam War.

The "Missing Man" table sets symbolizes the American soldiers who have lost their lives or are still missing in action while serving their country. These tables are also referred to as a MIA/POW table, Empty Table or Fallen Comrade table, and are found in military dining facilities, service balls and other military dining occasions.

The Restaurant Association of Maryland led the effort to educate restaurants on the meaning of the Missing Man table and encouraged their members to participate.

“Restaurants are the cornerstones of their communities. They often donate to numerous charitable causes and most offer discounts to military and other service members to thank them for what they do to protect us," said Marshall Weston, President & CEO of the Restaurant Association of Maryland. "The Missing Man table is just another way for restaurants to recognize and honor them, while also reminding customers of their sacrifice.”

Restaurants who will set up Missing Man tables this weekend in Prince George's County include:

• The Crab Deck at Red Sky Steak & Fish House: 14707 Baltimore Ave, Laurel
• Old Line Fine Wine, Spirits & Bistro: 11011 Baltimore Ave, Beltsville

The Missing Man table is set as follows:

• The white tablecloth draped over the table represents the purity of their response to our country’s call to arms.
• The empty chair depicts an unknown face, representing no specific Soldier, Sailor, Airman, or Marine, but all who are not here with us.
• The table itself is round to show that our concern for them is never ending.
• The Bible represents faith in a higher power and the pledge to our country, founded 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 red ribbon represents the love of our country, which inspired them to answer the nation’s call.
• The yellow candle and its yellow ribbon symbolize the everlasting hope for a joyous reunion with those yet accounted for.
• The slices of lemon on the bread plate remind us of their bitter fate.
• The salt upon the bread plate represent the tears of their families.
• The wine glass, turned upside down, reminds us that our distinguished comrades cannot be with us to drink a toast or join in the festivities of the evening.

Photo: Pixabay