News Releases

ZEELAND, Mich., May 22 – Memorial Day allows each of us to pause in respect of those that have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. Spectrum Health Zeeland Community Hospital, along with the entire Spectrum Health System, will honor our fallen soldiers with a symbolic table of remembrance. The POW/MIA table will display items representing the service and commitment of those we have lost in battle.

The table that stands in the hospital lobby is a place of honor. In setting this table, we acknowledge those missing from our celebration today. And we remember them.

• The table is small, and set for one—symbolizing the vulnerability of a lone prisoner against his captors.
• The white tablecloth draped over the table represents the purity of their response to our country’s call to arms.
• The empty chair depicts an unknown face, representing no specific Soldier, Sailor, Airman, or Marine, but all who are not here with us.
• The table itself is round to show that our concern for them is never ending.
• The black napkin stands for the emptiness these warriors have left in the hearts of their families and friends.
• The single red rose reminds us of their families and loved ones. The red ribbon represents the love of our country, which inspired them to answer the nation’s call.
• The candle symbolizes the everlasting hope for a joyous reunion with those yet accounted for.
• The slices of lemon on the bread plate remind us of their bitter fate.
• The salt upon the bread plate represent the tears of their families.
• The wine glass, turned upside down, reminds us that our distinguished comrades cannot be with us to drink a toast or join in the festivities of the evening.

We will never forget their sacrifice.

Until the day they return home, or find eternal peace, we will remember.

This memorial, located in the main hospital lobby, will be available to view starting on Friday, May 26.

People are at the heart of everything we do, and the inspiration for our legacy of outstanding outcomes, innovation, strong community partnerships, philanthropy and transparency. Corewell Health is a not-for-profit health system that provides health care and coverage with an exceptional team of 60,000+ dedicated people—including more than 11,500 physicians and advanced practice providers and more than 15,000 nurses providing care and services in 21 hospitals, 300+ outpatient locations and several post-acute facilities—and Priority Health, a provider-sponsored health plan serving more than 1.3 million members. Through experience and collaboration, we are reimagining a better, more equitable model of health and wellness. For more information, visit corewellhealth.org.

Contact:
Alexis Bolo Neal
Senior Communications Specialist
Email: alexis.boloneal@corewellhealth.org