The Missing Man Table: Oil Painting by Rick Lynn

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Nov. 10, 2017 - PRLog -- A recently completed oil painting by veteran Rick Lynn captures the spirit of a little-known ceremony: The Missing Man Table. Every active duty service man, veteran, first responder, policeman, fireman, or civil servant is familiar with this custom. However, most of the public remains unaware.

         The tradition was forged during the Vietnam War, but the actual source remains unknown. Artist Rick Lynn speaks on the subject, "The task at hand is to serve as a translator and to graphically represent the concept". He goes on to say, "there appears to be a disconnect between the public and the military". By the very nature of the armed forces, the military does not talk about what it does i.e "a need to know basis". One man in uniform can represent over 200 citizens. The general contact has little contact with the armed forces and has an even smaller understanding of many of their customs and traditions. The Missing Man Table is one of these many customs that tend to go unrecognized.

         The most definitive history to date of The Missing Man Table was written by Victoria Voelkel http://www.pow-miafamilies.org/missing-man-honors-table-history.html .

         The oil painting was completed with honor and respect to all who have served. The purpose was to aid in bridging a gap that is ever growing between the public and the armed forces.

About the Artist: Rick Lynn is a service disabled veteran who served in the Vietnam War Era.