Candlelight Vigil

Well...the candlelight vigil happens the night before the ship is due to arrive home. Its a naval tradition that dates back hundreds of years. Its done a little differently now but still the tradition is upheld w/ modern touches. The kids use falshlights, the "wives" or a "family member" are given a flower to toss into the ocean. This symbolizes that the ocean took 'them' away but the flower washes back ashore symblolizing that the ocean will bring them "back home" My sister and mom came w/ my niece for the homecoming and vigil. It was an awesome evening. We all enjoyed it and we couldnt be happier at having our sailors returned home safely.  My sister was deeply moved by the POW/ MIA table set. Its a reminder of the members of the armed forces who have paid the ultimate price for all that WE HAVE TODAY.

The POW/MIA Table

You may notice this small table here in a place of honor. It is set for one. This table is our way of symbolizing that members of our profession of arms are missing from our midst. They are commonly call P.O.W.'s or M.I.A.'s, we call them brothers.

They are unable to be with us this evening and so we remember them.

This table set for one is small... it symbolizes the frailty of one prisoner against his oppressors.

The table cloth is white... it symbolizes the purity of their intentions to respond to their country's call to arms.

The single rose displayed in a vase reminds us of the families and loved ones of our comrades in arms who keep faith awaiting their return.

The red ribbon tied so prominently on the vase is reminiscent of the red ribbon worn on the lapel and breasts of thousands who bear witness to their unyielding determination to demand a proper accounting for our missing.

A slice of lemon is on the bread plate... to remind us of their bitter fate.

There is salt upon the bread plate... symbolic of the family's tears as they wait.

The glass is inverted... they cannot toast with us tonight.

The chair is empty... they are not here.

Remember... all of you who served with them and called them comrades, who depended on their might and aid, and relied on them... for surely... they have not forsaken you.