Elks Lodge 104 Newport held a solemn and heartfelt POW/MIA Table Dedication Ceremony, honoring the sacrifices of prisoners of war and those missing in action. The event, with strong participation by VFW Post 406 and attended by veterans, community members, and Elks leadership and members, served as a powerful reminder of those who have not returned home.

The ceremony was led by Elk Walt Wildemann, chair of the Elks Veteran’s committee and Lodge 104 Exalted Ruler Joanne Ritchie. The centerpiece of the ceremony was the symbolic POW/MIA table, meticulously set with meaningful items, each representing an aspect of loss, sacrifice, and hope. A white tablecloth symbolized purity of intention, an empty chair represented the missing, a single red rose honored the blood shed in sacrifice, a slice of lemon served as a reminder of their bitter fate, grains of salt represented countless tears of the families, and an inverted wine glass reminds us that they cannot join us in a toast but we shall toast to them.

During the dedication, speakers reflected on the importance of remembering and supporting the families of those still unaccounted for.  Post 406 members served as the color guard to “Parade the Colors” of the US Flag and POW/MIA flag.  The Elks Chaplain led the assembled in prayer and patriotic music was performed by an organist and singer, accompanied by the entire group.

The Elks commitment to honoring veterans and their families was on full display, reinforcing their motto, “So long as there are veterans, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks will never forget them”.

This ceremony serves as a continued promise to keep the memory of POWs and MIAs alive, ensuring that their sacrifices are never forgotten. The Table was moved to it’s designated place of honor in the lobby outside the Elks Lodge Room where everyone who enters the Lodge will see it and be reminded of their service and sacrifice.

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