Missing Man Table and Honors Ceremony

BRANSON, MO — Military reunion groups will experience a special tribute at a popular Branson attraction. Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede Dinner Attraction has dedicated a “Missing Man Table & Honors Ceremony” acknowledging veterans, active duty, those lost and missing in conflict.

This remembrance is widely performed by veterans’ organizations at banquets and gatherings, honoring those who are missing from the celebration. There have been many different narratives written for the presentation, but the symbolism is quite constant. Dixie Stampede will set the “Missing Man Table” and provide the special honors ceremony by request for military reunion groups only.

As guests are seated, they will see an empty table set for one. The empty place setting signifies Americans from each branch of service, with flags representing Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Coast Guard, and Merchant Marine. The Honors Ceremony that follows describes each item on the table and its significance.

The “Missing Man Table”
The table is round, signifying everlasting concern for the missing. The tablecloth is white, symbolizing the call to duty. A single red rose in a vase represents the lives of the missing, their loved ones and friends. The vase is tied with a red ribbon, symbol of continued determination to account for the missing. A slice of lemon on the plate is a reminder of the bitter fate of those captured and missing. A pinch of salt symbolizes the tears endured by their families. The Bible represents the faith to sustain those lost. An inverted glass signifies the missing who cannot share the evening’s celebration. The chair is empty because they are missing.

The ceremony concludes as guests enjoy each other’s company, a meal and the Dixie Stampede arena show, highlighted by the beautiful Patriotic Finale, reminded of the loved ones and veterans honored that day.

“Not only is this a poignant ceremony appropriate for all branches and all eras, it’s a good fit for reunion groups enjoying Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede,” stated Steve Weyher, board member of Branson Veterans Task Force.

The private ceremony takes place before the Carriage Room pre-show, and is provided by request, free of charge, for military reunion groups of 15 or more attending that evening’s Dixie Stampede Dinner & Show. To arrange a “Missing Man Table & Honors Ceremony” for your military reunion, please contact Pat Veach at 1-800-520-5101 x245, or email [email protected].

About Dixie Stampede
Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede is a unique dinner and show experience set in an 85,000-square-foot facility featuring 32 magnificent horses, a stampede of Longhorn steer, dozens of cast members, ostrich races, illusions, music and more, all showcased in a friendly rivalry between the North and the South. With seating to accommodate over 1,000 guests, the show is highlighted by a four-course feast. Pre-show entertainment features the comedy and juggling of Guinness record sport juggler, Albert Lucas, in the facility’s Carriage Room.

Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede Dinner Attractions operate in three popular destinations: Pigeon Forge, Tennessee; Myrtle Beach, South Carolina; and Branson, Missouri. For general information regarding show times and ticket prices, call 1-800-520-5544 or visit www.dixiestampede.com.