Author: John Hutchinson

Kathy:  Ladies and Gentlemen, as we enjoy this evening of fellowship, we are reminded that not everyone is so privileged.  As you can see, we have an empty table.  This table is empty by design.  We placed it there for distinguished guests who cannot be with us today.  This place is set to honor our fallen warriors as well as those currently in harm’s way somewhere around the globe.
Today’s military members are well equipped and skilled in military combat warfare for peaceful purposes.  They go willingly to help preserve the rights and dignity of men and women everywhere.  They have always, and will always stand tall in the face of danger and fight for a world free of tyranny and terrorism of any kind.  They are adept in many disciplines and each warrior has unique skills they employ both on the battlefield and in their personal lives within their communities.  Society recognizes our American military members as an elite group.  They are dedicated to the cause of peaceful coexistence on a global scale.  They go to work each day knowing the high cost of freedom and recognizing that this might be THE DAY they are called upon to give their all.  And they do that willingly.
Today, as we reflect upon this empty table, we come face to face with the stark reality that some of our warriors and personal heroes have indeed been called upon to make that ultimate sacrifice.  We also recognize that some are deployed but will come home again.  These are our brothers and sisters, our friends; and, our comrades in arms.  Their absence today is symbolized by this simple empty table.
Their death leaves a wake of sorrow for their friends and families.  But, it also leaves a legacy of pride in the time honored tradition of selflessness and dedicated service to their country.  Those of us who are gathered here tonight, along with a grateful nation, look at this EMPTY TABLE and say, “WE THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE.  Tonight we honor you”.  Our military members are national treasures and an inspiration to people everywhere seeking freedom from oppression and the right to live with dignity.  
Please focus for a moment in silence, on the importance of this empty table.  In our hearts we wish them here – but most of all we wish them safe return and if the only alternative is death, then we wish them peace and eternal rest from their toil.  Their service will never be forgotten, and we thank each of them and their families for their selfless sacrifice.