By James Massara
CCN News Director

GALION — Memorial Day weekend is a time when families get together for backyard barbecues or go out to eat at a local restaurant to celebrate the unofficial start of summer.

One local woman, however, wants to do her part to remind patrons of Galion restaurants of the true meaning behind Memorial Day.

Joni O’Leary had seen a version of a Missing Man Table, also known as the Fallen Comrade Table, elsewhere and wanted to bring the sentiment home.

The Missing Man Table typically is seen in dining facilities of military installations and in military veteran clubs, such as American Legion posts. The displays are meant to remember those who are missing in action or are prisoners of war.

A description of the symbolism of the items on the table, as described by the National League of Families of POW and MIA military members is as follows.

“The table is round — to show our everlasting concern for our missing men. The tablecloth is white — symbolizing the purity of their motives when answering the call to duty. The single red rose, displayed in a vase, reminds us of the life of each of the missing, and their loved ones and friends of these Americans who keep the faith, awaiting answers. The vase is tied with a red ribbon, symbol of our continued determination to account for our missing. A slice of lemon on the bread plate is to remind us of the bitter fate of those captured and missing in a foreign land. A pinch of salt symbolizes the tears endured by those missing and their families who seek answers. The Bible represents the strength gained through faith to sustain those lost from our country, founded as one nation under God. The glass is inverted — to symbolize their inability to share this evening’s [morning’s/day’s] toast. The chairs are empty — they are missing. Let us now raise our water glasses in a toast to honor America’s POW/MIAs and to the success of our efforts to account for them.”

The complete history of the display may be found here.

Not knowing exactly how to go about her project, O’Leary was put into contact with Mike Mateer at the Galion American Legion Post No. 243.

“I wasn’t sure if the American Legion would think it was inappropriate placing the tables all around town,” O’Leary said. “I was very excited with their response and willingness to help.”

With donations from the American Legion, Candi Bar, Toni’s Flowers, Crossroads Candles and Glenn’s Surplus, O’Leary was able to put together the necessary items at 17 local establishments.

Participating restaurants include the Candi Bar, Ralphie’s, Whistle Stop, Granny’s, Wendy’s, Burger King, Taco Bell, East of Chicago, Subway, Pizza Hut, Arby’s, Kentucky Fried Chicken, Payne’s, Bistro 217, Planet 14 and Cake and Icing.

O’Leary said she is grateful for the businesses and their willingness to participate, and hopes patrons will take the time to notice the displays and think about those who have sacrificed a great deal for their country.

The tables will be on display through Monday.