Chick-fil-A Missing Man Table: A Stirring Memorial Day Tribute

Despite the weekend crowds, one seat at a Tennessee Chick-fil-A remained noticeable empty. This special area designated as the “Missing Man Table,” was created to honor fallen soldiers this past Memorial Day weekend.

Chick-fil-A director Matthew Everhart stated, “It is just a small little reminder as our guest come in to kind of take a moment and be thankful for the men and women who did sacrifice so much for us. Indeed, each item on display was designed to hold special significance for the loved ones of those who had heroically fought for our country.”

These items included a single red rose, a slice of lemon, a lighted candle, the Bible and an empty chair. Such powerful symbols of love, hope, faith, and loss highlight the complex emotional constellation associated with grieving and the nation at large.

Richard Weik a retired commander of the 173 Airborne Brigade visited a Chick-Fil-A display. He stated, “When you truly don’t know if orders you’ve given your guys will result in them never being able to see their kids or be at the Thanksgiving table, it weighs heavy on you. So, if that Missing Man table can educate people who go to Chick-fil-A, then I think it’s fantastic.”

The Missing Man Table underscores the very purpose of Memorial Day: that in spite of our differences we will always come to remember and honor our troops and their loved ones left behind. Sergeant Major Weik honors his fallen brethren by keeping, “a sword in my man cave with about 21 bracelets on it for soldiers killed in combat and about 10 bracelets for people who were killed in accidents or took their own lives, stating “You never stop thinking about the ones who are gone.”

In many ways, Chick-fil-A’s table is just a small gesture. It’s only up for a few days and may soon disappear from the news and be forgotten in the daily hustle and bustle of life. But it also serves as a powerful tribute to those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice by stating unequivocally that we will never forget them.

Although their chairs may be empty, they will always have a place in our hearts.

By: Scott Shepetin