Memorial Day: The Missing Man Table (this one is personal)
Posted by Donna in FL on May 25, 2026, 4:34 pm
This year Gene is setting up the missing man table in honor of one of my family members. Just this past year I learned of the sacrifice of Ross Warren Welch, my first cousin, twice removed (1924-1944.) Tech Sergeant Welch was Radio Operator/Gunner on the B-17 bomber crew of aircraft 42-102515. Ross died serving his country on May 27, 1944 when the aircraft encountered flak and collided with another B17. Of the 20 men on board both planes, only 2 survived. Ross was the son of my great grand aunt Myrtle Warren Welch, and Edgar Thomas Welch, son of Welch's Grape Juice founder Charles Welch.
When I first saw the movie "The Memphis Belle" I remember how heartsick I felt during the scene when the co-pilot shot down a German plane, only to see it collide with another Flying Fortress. I didn't know then that my cousin died in a similar collision. Mid-air collisions occurred in great numbers during the war - Total Planes Lost: About 4,735, about 200 were mid-air collisions. Total Casualties: Over 26,000 men killed in action during missions with the Eighth Air Force alone.General Loss Rates: The chance of surviving the standard 25-mission tour was only 25% for a typical bomber crew.
May their sacrifice never be forgotten.
About the Missing Man Table
The Missing Man Table (or Fallen Comrade Table) is a solemn military tradition used in formal dinners and memorial ceremonies to honor fallen, missing, or imprisoned service members. The table is set in a place of honor, featuring a highly specific, minimalist layout loaded with heavy symbolism: Round Table: Symbolizes everlasting concern and that hope for their return never ends. White Tablecloth: Represents the pure intentions of the service members when they answered their country's call. Empty Chair: Signifies that the missing soldier is not here and that their seat remains unclaimed. Single Red Rose: Reminds us of the lives lost and the loved ones keeping the faith while awaiting answers. Yellow or Red Ribbon: Tied around the vase, it represents the determined hope for their safe return. Slice of Lemon: Placed on the bread plate to symbolize the bitter fate of being captured or missing in a foreign land. Pinch of Salt: Symbolizes the tears of the families and loved ones who continue to grieve and wait. Inverted Glass: Indicates that the missing service member and their families cannot participate in a toast. Lit Candle: Acts as a guiding beacon of hope to return home
on May 25, 2026, 4:34 pm
