A small gathering of people attended a tribute held on Friday, Sept. 20 to pay honor to our POW/MIA. Ken Carrothers, Commander American Legion Post 19 presided and was joined by members of other organizations and Lt. Colonel Craig Short to pay tribute and honor our more

Dee Schaar, Auxiliary President VFW Post 2313 and member of American Legion Auxiliary Unit 19; Kay Benscoter, Marine Corp League, Fallon and Past Commander American Legion Post 19; Rick Isom, Past VFW Commander Department of Nevada and Quartermaster, Hawthorne VFW Post 2313; Linda K. Neal, Commander American Legion District 4; Lt. Colonel Craig Short, Hawthorne Army Depot and Ken Carrothers, Commander American Legion Post 19, Hawthorne. (Courtesy photo)

A small gathering of people attended a tribute held on Friday, Sept. 20 to pay honor to our POW/MIA. Ken Carrothers, Commander American Legion Post 19 presided and was joined by members of other organizations and Lt. Colonel Craig Short to pay tribute and honor our more than 83,000 Prisoners of War and Missing in Action from all wars.

A small round table set with an empty chair and a POW/MIA drape signifies they are not here, symbolizing the frailty of one against all oppressors. A white table cloth shows their purity and willingness to answer our country’s call to arms so future generations will remain free. The wine glass is inverted showing that they cannot toast with us today and the candle reminds us of the light of hope that lives in our hearts to light the way home away from their captors back to a grateful nation. The single rose reminds of loved ones and families of our comrades who keep the faith and await their return. A red ribbon on the vase reminds us of the thousands back home who admire their will; determination and who demand a proper accounting of all missing. A slice of lemon on the plate is to remind us of their bitter fate if we do not bring them home. The salt on the table symbolizes the families’ tears as they wait and remember. The Bible which represents strength achieved from faith, helping to sustain those lost from our country founded as One Nation under God.

Remember our POW/MIA for surely they have not forgotten you.