While Saturday’s weather was wonderful, yesterday’s was cloudy, cooler and rainy. Today will start with patchy fog, then turn mostly cloudy, gradually becoming sunny, with a high near 76 degrees and with a low around 59.
Happy Memorial Day! Memorial Day is considered the most solemn holiday in the nation as we honor our fallen military heroes. Originally started as Decoration Day to honor our Civil War fallen, it became a federal holiday in 1971. And, while it has become somewhat of a rite of passage as the beginning of the summer season, we should all remember its origin and true meaning. That seems especially fitting as the nation continues the battle with COVID-19.
Michael McGovern, Director of Operations at Alpine Lake Resort, just over the border in West Virginia, shared the following photo and insight, from Alpine Lake’s annual Missing Man setting to honor our military fallen. They are not able to set up this year due to the pandemic, so sharing here and on other social media is appropriate and appreciated. Thanks for sharing Michael!
Missing Man Table at Alpine Lake Resort
Here’s an explanation of the symbolism that Michael sent over:
> In honor of our Veterans, Alpine has set a table to symbolize the unity of all members of the five armed services (Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, and Coast Guard) as protectors and warriors under the same flag of our great Nation. The Tablecloth is white, symbolic of the purity of their intentions to respond to their country’s call to arms.
> Red rose in the vase signifies the blood that many have shed in sacrifice to ensure the freedom of our beloved United States of America. This rose also reminds us of the family and friends of our missing comrades who keep the faith, while awaiting their return.
> The slice of lemon represents the bitter fate of the missing.
> Salt sprinkled is symbolic of the countless fallen tears of families as they wait.
> The bay leaf since ancient times have been made into wreaths and used to crown soldiers as the heroes they are. Bay laurel is the symbol of wisdom and bravery.
> The half full glass of water represents the fact that the missing and fallen cannot partake and the feeling of loss family members feel when their loved one is deployed or does not return.
> The Bible represents the strength gained through faith to sustain those lost from our country, founded as one nation under God. Our Bible at Alpine Lake is open to Psalm 91 that asks God for his protection and the strength we find in his refuge.
> The Lit candle is reminiscent of the light of hope which lives in our hearts to illuminate their way home, away from their captors, to the open arms of a grateful nation.
> The single empty chair signifies the missing and fallen that aren’t present.
I salute all of our fallen, thank all of our veterans for their service and wish all of our readers a peacful, happy, healthy and thoughtful Memorial Day.
