American Legion Post 120 - Loudon
Legion History
The American Legion was chartered by Congress in 1919 as a patriotic veteran organization. Focusing on service to veterans, service members and communities, the Legion evolved from a group of war weary veterans of World War I into one of the most influential nonprofit groups in the United States. Membership swiftly grew to over 1 million, and local posts sprang up across the country. Today, membership stands at nearly 2 million in more than 13,000 posts worldwide. The posts are organized into 55 departments: one each for the 50 states, along with the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, France, Mexico and the Philippines. Over the years, the Legion has influenced considerable social change in America, won hundreds of benefits for veterans and produced many important programs for children and youth.
The Missing Man (POW/MIA) Table
The table that stands before you is a place of honor.
In setting this table, we acknowledge those missing from our celebrations. And we remember them.
The table is small and set for one — Symbolizing the vulnerability of a lone prisoner against his captors.
The tablecloth is white — Symbolizing purity of intention in responding to the nation’s call to arms.
The chair is empty, for they are not here.
The wine glass is inverted — They cannot toast with us.
The slices of lemon — Reminding us of their bitter suffering.
The grains of salt — Representing the countless tears of the families.
The single red rose — Reminding us of loved ones who keep the faith awaiting their return.
The burning candle and yellow ribbon — Symbolizing everlasting hope of a reunion with the missing.
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— All who have served alongside them; we who have donned the same proud uniform, being sworn to the same faith and allegiance — We will never forget their sacrifice.
— Until the day they return home, or find eternal peace, we will remember.