POW/MIA Vigil
The vigil will be located under the Raynor Library bridge and will run from 6:00 pm on Wednesday, September 17th to 6:00 pm on Thursday, September 18th.
In 2003, President George W. Bush declared that the third Friday in September would be a National POW/MIA Recognition Day. Marquette ROTC units hold a vigil each year during this week to commemorate this day, and to honor those who have fought and been captured for our freedom. The ceremony involves two cadets or midshipmen from Army, Air Force, or Navy ROTC units flanking the service flags as well as a small table that is a symbol of vacancy. The vigil lasts 24 hours straight, and it helps to give Marquette University a more visible representation of those who have gone to fight for our country and never returned.
Small table- representing the frailty of one prisoner against his oppressors
White tablecloth- representing the purity of their intentions to respond to their country’s call to arms
Red Rose- representing the families and loved ones of our comrades in arms who keep faith in awaiting their return
Red Ribbon- reminiscent of the red ribbon worn on the lapel and breasts of thousands who bear witness to their unyielding determination to demand a proper account for our missing
White Candle- reminiscent of the light of hope that lives in our hearts to illuminate their way home, away from their captors, to open arms of a grateful nation
Slice of lemon- (on a bread plate) to remind us of their bitter fate
Salt- symbolic of the family’s tears as they wait
Drinking Glass- (inverted) reminding us that they cannot drink tonight