Today in Social Studies we studied Veterans Day. We talked about the history behind it, why it is celebrated, and what a veteran is. Then, we read the book, America's White Table.
If you are unfamiliar with the white table, it is a small table set up at military functions and events in order to honor and remember our veterans, specifically those who are MIA and POW. It is sometimes even set up by civilians as a way to honor those who have served our country.
Every item on the table, as well as the table and chair, are symbolic.
a small table - to show one soldier's lonely battle against many
white table cloth - to honor a soldier's pure heart when he answers his country's call to duty
lemon slice and grain of salt on plate - to show a captive soldier's bitter fate and the tears of families waiting for loved ones to return
an empty chair - for the missing soldiers who are not here
black napkin - for the sorrow of captivity
glass turned over - for the meal that won't be eaten
white candle - for peace
red rose in a vase tied with a red ribbon - for the hope that all our missing will return someday
