Fallen Soldier

Saturday, 11/11/06
1015

Since today is Veteran’s Day, I thought I would share another military tradition of which civilians may not be aware. It’s along the lines of the toast to “Absent Comrades” that is often proposed when military people and veterans meet socially, and which you’ve probably seen in at least one war movie.

Like many military and veteran's gathering places, every mess hall at Camp Arifjan has a table like this one:

Fallen Soldier's Table

"Fallen Soldier"

In case you can’t read the words in the photograph, the placard says:

“Fallen Soldier”

“This table, set for one, is small – symbolizing the frailty of one prisoner alone against his oppressors.

The tablecloth is white – symbolizing the purity of intentions to respond to our country’s call to arms.

The single rose reminds us of the families and loved ones that keep the faith – awaiting the return of our comrades-in-arms.

A slice of lemon to remind us of their bitter fate.

Spilled salt upon the plate, representing the tears of the children who will never know their touch or the whisper of their voices.

An inverted glass – they cannot toast with us this night.

All of you who served with them and called them comrades, who relied on their strength, experience, insight, and aid – Remember – for surely they have not forsaken you.”

Like many such reminders, this is such a familiar sight that it becomes part of the scenery and you can easily walk right past it without noticing. But once in awhile, like today, it’s good to pause and remember.

Mood: Thoughtful
Music: Chopin (Soundtrack from “The Pianist”)