It seems like as time progresses more companies are doing more for veterans. That’s a wonderful thing to see.”Michael Best, U.S. Air Force Security Police Veteran
CULLMAN — All day Wednesday Applebee’s honored local veterans by providing them free meals. The American Legion and the ladies of the American Legion Auxiliary performed a POW/MIA Remembrance Ceremony before the restaurant opened its doors.
The symbolic Remembrance Ceremony is conducted in a place of honor. The table is set for one person as a way of remembering members of the armed forces who are missing and unable to share the meal.
The symbolism of each item is detailed in the ceremony guidelines:
- A small table is set for one person symbolizing the frailty of one prisoner alone against his oppressors.
- The tablecloth is white symbolizing the purity of their intentions to respond to their country’s call to arms.
- A single red rose is displayed in a vase to remind us of the families and loved ones of our missing comrades who keep faith while awaiting their return. The red in the rose symbolizes the blood that may have been shed in sacrifice to ensure the freedom of the United States.
- A red ribbon is tied to the vase is reminiscent of the red ribbon worn upon the lapel and breasts of thousands who bear witness to their unyielding determination to demand a proper accounting of our missing.
- A candle that when it is lit symbolizes the light of hope which lives in our hearts to illuminate their way home.
- A slice of lemon is on the bread plate to remind us of their bitter fate.
- Salt upon the bread plate is symbolic of the family’s tears as they wait.
- The glass is inverted because they cannot toast with us.
- The chair is empty because they are not here.
“They (American Legion) do an awesome ceremony,” said Debbie Wilson, Applebee’s General Manager. “This is the second year that they’ve done it here to remember the fallen veterans and prisoners of war, it’s just amazing,” she smiled.
“We love it, they do a great job. Our staff is super excited to be here today. Some of them worked it last year so they are way more excited this year because they knew what it was about. They understand how touching it is — I had servers in tears this morning during the ceremony.”
Veterans from all branches of service each enjoyed their lunch and were treated like the heroes they are.
“It’s good to see things like this,” said Michael Best, U.S. Air Force Security Police Veteran. “It seems like as time progresses more companies are doing more for veterans. That’s a wonderful thing to see,” he grinned as he petted his service dog, Sam.
Sam, a 102-pound Husky/Golden Retriever mix, has become a vital part of Best’s life.
“I was in Desert Shield and Desert Storm,” Best continued. “I take Sam with me everywhere I go. I have been diagnosed with Post-traumatic stress disorder and my doctor figured this was better than all the medications,” he chuckled.
“So far it has worked out pretty good. He was 6-weeks old when I got him, and we went through all the training together. When we finally completed the last part of our training, my doctor signed off on him. He’s been by my side now for 6 years,” Best said. He looked down at his best friend, then added, “At one time I was taking 16 different medications a day, now I’m down to four so it’s been wonderful.”
As part of the celebration, American Legion Post 4's Commander, Dan Raley played "Taps", a bugle call performed at U.S. military funerals, in remembrance of the many POWs and MIAs that have never returned home.
“Today’s program is to honor veterans, to thank them for their service,” Raley stated. “Applebee’s is giving them a free meal and we’re out here supporting them and inviting them to our meal tomorrow night at the American Legion. The ceremony earlier was outstanding. Sergeant First Class James Caudle with the National Guard did a great job. We played 'Taps' afterward. We have a great group of people,” he grinned proudly.
Applebee's is located at 2106 Cherokee Ave SW, Cullman, AL 35055. For more information call 256-736-6336 or visit their website. Follow Applebee's on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest.
