USS Rich

	In Memoriam
	As you entered the dining room this evening, you may have noticed a small table in a place of honor. Please let me explain. The military caste is filled with symbology.
	The TABLE is set for one - allow that "one" to represent all of our "brothers" who are not with us tonight.
	The TABLECLOTH is white - symbolizing the purity of intentions to respond to their country's call to arms.	REMEMBER!
	The single ROSE in the vase reminds us of the families who loved them.	REMEMBER!
	The RED RIBBON tied so prominently on the vase the closeness we shared.	REMEMBER!
	The slice of LEMON on the plate is to remind us of their bitter fate.	REMEMBER!
	There is SALT upon the bread plate symbolizing the tears of their families.	REMEMBER!
	The GLASS is inverted - they cannot toast with us this night.	REMEMBER!
	The CHAIR is empty - they are not here.	REMEMBER!