Tan Son Nhut Association 2009 Reunion, MIA Ceremony Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
by: Rich
Carvell October 17, 2009 Copyright © 2009 |
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I have taken several photographs at the Tan Son Nhut Association, 2009 Reunion, located in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee,
October 17, 2009.
This was accomplished at the MIA Ceremony, in the banquet hall.
The MIA reading was done by Trish Plunkett and Johnnie and Sharon Jernigan set the MIA table, in conjunction with the reading.
I wish that all of you could have been there to see how beautiful it was.
Thank You, to all who attended this special event. |
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1. This table is set for the members of our military that are missing from our midst. These missing brothers and sisters may be absent because they are
prisoners of war, missing in action, being held hostage or because they have made the ultimate sacrifice to keep us free. They are unable to be with us, so we remember them and their circumstances. |
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2. The table cloth is white, symbolizing the purity of their intentions in responding to their country's call so their children could remail free. |
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3. The one candle symbolizes the frailty of one individual - alone, against his oppressors. |
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4. The black ribbon on the candle reminds us of those who will not be coming home. |
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5. The single rose, in the vase, reminds us of the families and loved ones that keep the faith, awaiting their return. |
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6. The rose itself is red, signifying the blood shed by our comrades in the defense of freedom. They are not with us today. |
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7. The red, white and blue ribbon is tied to the vase by a yellow ribbon, reminiscent of the ribbons worn on the lapels and breast of thousands who bear witness to
their unyielding determination to demand a proper accounting of our missing and for the safe return of those held hostage or engaged in our defense. |
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8. The place setting is for one, but represents all who could not be with us. |
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9. A slice of lemon is placed on the plate to remind us of their bitter fate. |
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10. There is salt on the plate, symbolic of the family's tears as they wait and remember. |
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11. The word "Hero" is written in the grains – because "Hero" is what each man and woman becomes when they serve America. |
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12. The glass is inverted to remind us that they will not be here tonight. |
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13. The picture on the table is a reminder that they are missed very much... |
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14. ... and are rememberd by their family and friends. |
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15. The chair is empty, signifying their absence and our constant hope that they will return to us some day. |
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16. It is tilted to signify that when they do return there will be and always has been a place set aside for them in our hearts and minds. |
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17. As we look upon this empty table, do not remember them as ghosts from the past, but remember them as our comrades and friends. Do not neglect
their families but keep them close to your heart. Please continue to honor those missing from our midst. |