Table of Honor

Each year, during the weekend of the climb, Fountain Place displays a Missing Man or Fallen Comrade Table that we refer to as the Table of Honor. Viewable through the buildings glass walls from the fountain courtyard, this table is set for our brothers and sisters who have answered their final call and are no longer with us on this earth. The origin of the Missing Man Table comes from the military, but it has been adapted to fit many other organizations.

The Table, with its place setting, is a way of symbolizing the fact that members of our profession are missing from this event.

The table is set for one, though the number is many.

The Chair is empty. They can no longer join us.

The Tablecloth is white - symbolizing the purity of their intentions to serve their communities.

The Candle is lit - symbolizing their spirit to serve.

The Glass is inverted - they cannot drink nor toast with us this day.

The Salt upon the plate is symbolic of their tears.

The Blue Ribbon tied so prominently on the vase reminds us of the "Thin Blue Line" which stands strong before those who would destroy law and order in our great nation.

Many of us served with these peace officers and called them "partner". We relied upon them; depended upon their might, and their aid.

We called them "Brothers." We called them "Sisters."

They watch over us still - and we Honor them today.

The Red Rose, displayed in a vase, reminds us of the life of each of the missing and their loved ones left behind. They will always be a part of our family.

The Purple Ribbon tied so prominently on the vase, represents our strength in healing.

A Slice of Lemon is on the bread plate to remind us of their bitter fate.

The Chair is empty...they are not here. Our lives are incomplete because they cannot sit with us tonight.

The Folded American Flag and the Bible represent those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for their community and country which was founded as one nation under God.

In honoring them...each of them...all of them...we stand silently and face their table...the table where they should be sitting with us tonight. We stand silently in their absence.

To our Fallen Heroes: we will never forget your ultimate sacrifice.