Staff reports 8:42 a.m.
Friday, June 22, 2018 8:44 am

The table is in remembrance of servicemen and women who are missing in action or were taken prisoner while serving in the armed forces. (Courtesy photo)

ROCHESTER - A new permanent POW/MIA tribute at City Hall was dedicated on Thursday.

The tribute, a table set for one, symbolizes those soldiers who never returned home and calls upon passers-by to remember those taken who have gone missing or were taken prisoner while serving in the armed forces.

The table and chair dedication was attended by city officials and veterans from local organizations. Gordon Oliver, chaplain of the Rochester Veteran's Council, led the dedication ceremony.

Members of the Rolling Thunder Veterans Organization donated the chair for the display, while the Public Works Department donated a table and table settings to complete the tribute.

"This display will serve as a lasting reminder of the sacrifices of so many American soldiers in defense of our freedom," City Manager Daniel Fitzpatrick said. "The table, settings and chair are deeply symbolic of the absence of our POWs and MIAs, and we are proud to have this tribute as a fixture at City Hall."