Good morning,
I wanted to provide some more information and follow up. Mr. Montoya has been very active and has developed a temporary solution that allows us to put the bible in a locked case adjacent to the table along with an updated script. The placement in a locked case is to ensure the safekeeping of the bible. The script defining the meaning of the items on the table will be displayed above the table and in the case with the bible. The updates to the script help to further identify why the bible is really an artifact and not a religious symbol. The hopeful permanent solution will allow for a locked case secured to the table which will be used to display the bible.
The updated language which further personalizes the script and shows the intent of the Veteran dedication as well as the symbolism of the bible in place is as follows:
MANCHESTER VA MEDICAL CENTER MISSING MAN TABLE
The table is round – to show our everlasting concern.
The cloth is white – symbolizing the purity of their motives when answering the call to serve.
The single red rose reminds us of the lives of these Americans….and their loved ones and friends who keep the faith, while seeking answers.
The yellow ribbon symbolizes our continuing uncertainty, the hope for their return, and our determination to account for them.
A slice of lemon reminds us of their bitter fate, captured and missing in a foreign land.
A shaker of salt symbolizes the tears of our missing and their families - who long for answers after decades of uncertainty.
The lighted candle reflects our hope for their return – alive or dead.
The Bible, donated by Former U.S. Army Air Corps Tech. Sgt. Herman "Herk" Streitburger of Bedford, New Hampshire, was one of the few personal items he had while he was held in captivity in a German Prisoner of War Camp. It represents the strength gained through faith, to sustain us and those lost from our country. For former Tech. Sgt. Streitburger, a symbol to remind all he never forgot those who served, that he served with and who never came home. (Adjacent to the table in locked display case for safekeeping.)
The glass is inverted – symbolizing their inability to share a toast.
The chairs are empty – they are missing……………..
This display was donated by the Northeast POW/MIA Network and Rolling Thunder Chapter 1, by Veterans for Veterans, to demonstrate their everlasting concern. Manchester VA Medical Center is honored to ask all who enter to take notice, pause to reflect and offer gratitude for the service, sacrifice and valor of our Prisoners of War and those that remain Missing in Action.
Faith, Trust, Truth, Responsibility & Accountability ..... We must never Forget
I am available for any and all questions related to this.
With respect,
Kristin Pressly
Public Affairs Office
Manchester VA Medical Center
718 Smyth Road
Manchester, NH 03104
(603) 624-4366 x 6779
(603) 722-9527
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