Missing Man Table Ceremony

SANDS RESORTS PRESENTS “MISSING MAN TABLE” CEREMONY

July 17, 2009, Myrtle Beach, S.C. — Sands Resorts, a collection of seven oceanfront resorts in Myrtle Beach, presented the “Missing Man Table” ceremony in “Hall of Heroes” at the Rawcliffe Conference Center on Saturday July 11, 2009.  The dignified and solemn ceremony serves to honor prisoners of war and those missing in action in all wars.

The event was moderated by Bill DeVaughn from Rolling Thunder South Carolina 3. Other Rolling Thunder members carried a service cover  representing  five branches of the United States military (US Army, US Marine Corps, US Navy, US Air Force and US Coast Guard) and placed them over the plates at the table.

The table set-up is very specific with meaning in each detail. The table is round to show everlasting concern for the men still missing. The cloth is white to symbolize purity of the motives when answering the call to duty. There is a single red rose displayed in a vase to remind us of the life of each of the missing and their loved ones and friends who keep faith and wait for answers. A slice of lemon is placed on the bread plate to remind us of the bitter fate of those captured and missing in a foreign land. There is also a pinch of salt on the tale to symbolize the tears endured by those missing and their families who seek answers. A Bible is placed on the table to represent the strength gained through faith. Lastly, the chairs are left empty, to symbolize the missing.  

In addressing attendees DeVaughn, said, “We will honor all POW’s and MIA’s from all wars. These brothers and sisters cannot be here with us but they will not be forgotten.”

Sands Resorts’ Hall of Heroes also exhibits a scaled replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall, complete with all 58,253 names. Other displays include information about each war and conflict the United States has been involved in and a Gold Dog Tag Display honoring those who have died in hostile action from the end of the Vietnam War until 9-11, as well as those who have died in the global war on terror.  Additional,

there’s an exhibit honoring all 2,984 Americans who perished in the attack on 9-11 and a special dog tag display featuring dog tags individuals have made in tribute to a loved one.

The “Hall of Heroes” opens daily at 11:00 a.m. and is free of charge to all individuals as well as groups. The “Missing Man Table” remains on permanent display along with the other tributes to American Heroes who have given their lives for the preservation of freedom in our country.   For additional information, please contact Sands Resorts at 843-692-5265.