A service commemorating National POW/MIA Recognition Day was held on the Marshall Square Friday morning.

The service began at 10 a.m. on the east side of the square near the MIA/POW memorial. National POW/MIA Recognition Day is observed on the third Friday of September and aims to honor those who were prisoners of war and those who are still missing in action.

After a brief welcome and introduction, Dennis Desmond went into detail explaining the symbolism behind the POW/MIA table. The table features many symbolic items meant to honor prisoners of war and missing in action service members, including an empty chair representing the missing person, a white cloth symbolizing their purity of intention, and sliced lemon representing their bitter fate.

Slater Mayor Terry Jordan spoke at the ceremony. He says its important to think about and remember the sacrifices of the men and women who have served the country.

Charlie Guthrie says this service can serve as a reminder of the price many service members have paid to preserve freedom.

The Saline County Commission also attended the ceremony and read off the names of the service members listed on the POW/MIA Memorial on the Marshall Square, which honors 15 POW’s and 6 veterans who are still MIA.

A moment of silence, the playing of Taps, and a prayer from Ralph Varner closed out the ceremony.

You can view photos from the ceremony below: