Anyone who has had the opportunity to attend a military ball or other kind of military type events has probably noticed a single empty table in a place of honor at the event. This table represents those comrades who have died in service, or have not yet returned. The white table tradition stems from the 1970's Red River Valley Fighter Pilots Association, the River Rats of Vietnam and grew in popularity after Vietnam was over. Each individual piece on this table has its own meaning.

The table is round to symbolize everlasting concern for those comrades that are missing or have fallen.


The white tablecloth symbolizes the purity of their motives when answering the call of duty and the purity of The United States of America.


A single place setting represents the desire to be able to once again dine with the fallen or missing in action.


A slice of lemon on the bread plate is a reminder of the bitter fate of those who will never return.


A pinch of salt symbolizes the tears endured by the families of those who have fallen or who have not returned.


A vase containing a single red rose reminds us of the blood sacrificed, the life of each of the missing, and the loved ones and friends who miss them.


The vase is tied with a red ribbon symbolizing the continued determination to remember our fallen, account for our missing, and display American Patriotism.


The candle is reminiscent of the light of hope which lives on in one’s heart; the light of America will always be the light in a world of darkness.


A black ribbon on the candle reminds us of the fallen who will not be returning home.


The Bible or scripture represents the strength gained through faith to sustain those lost and to find peace.


The glass is inverted to symbolize that the fallen or missing are unable to share the evening toast.


The chair is empty, leaning against the table symbolizing that they are missing or that they are not with us.


*There are no regulations or laws concerning the table, therefore certain items could be removed or added to the table, such as a helmet or boots to symbolize the uniform the fallen was wearing when they paid the ultimate sacrifice. A faded picture is also known to be added to the table symbolizing that they are missed, but remembered by their families.


YOU ARE NOT FORGOTTEN SO LONG AS THERE IS ONE LEFT IN WHOM YOUR MEMORY REMAINS.