Dining in /Out - Page 2

hanilii

A Dining In is a military tradition, encouraging camaraderie and esprit de corps. The Dining In is generally a military function only in the tradition of the mess. The tradition of the mess Dining-In is shrouded in history of the military, originating in the monasteries and universities of the tenth century, where a widely dispersed student body gathered periodically to exchange ideas in a common atmosphere. Some records indicate that militaries have held formal dinners as far back as the Roman Legions. And the Vikings held formal ceremonies to honor and celebrate battles and heroes. During World War I and II, the US Military adopted the Dining In tradition from our British Allies, but we have since added our own unique and varied military customs. In general, the Dining-In is a formal banquet in which a high degree of military atmosphere is maintained, together with an air of tradition and fellowship to promote cordiality, camaraderie, esprit de corps, and professionalism. It is customary during these formal events to present a series of toast to dignitaries, heads of states, and to fallen comrades.

A Dining Out is a military function or dinner that includes civilians, guests, and/or families. It is still a tradition, but not as formal. And usually does not include the grog bowl! It is frequently seen as Holiday Balls, Spring Cotillion, or unit banquets to celebrat retirements/promotions/awards.

Fallen Soldiers Table:
Mr. Vice: “Members of the Mess, as you entered the hall tonight, you may have noticed the small table, set for one, in a place of honor. This table is our way of symbolizing the fact that members of our profession of arms are missing from our midst…
They are unable to eat with us this evening, so we remember them for their ultimate sacrifice and their dedication to a grateful nation…
This table, set for one is a small symbol of the frailty of one Soldier alone against his oppressorsand the singular life given in defense of our Nation. .

Cue SGT to place black table cloth: The tablecloth is black, symbolizing the darkness and mourning we felt as our brothers fell in battle…

Cue SGT to place white table cloth: The tablecloth is white, symbolizing the purity of their intentions to respond to their country’s call to arms…

Cue SGT to place single rose & vase: The single rose in the vase reminds us of the families and loved ones of our Comrades-in-Arms who keep their memories alive lest we forget…
Cue SGT to place single rose & vase: The red ribbon tied so prominently on the vase, is a reminder of the blood shed to protect the liberty so loved by our country…
Cue SGT to place lemon: A slice of lemon is on the bread plate, to remind us of their bitter fate…
Cue SGT to place salt:The spilled salt on the bread plate is symbolic of the families’ tears as they learned of their loved ones fate…
Cue SGT to light candle:The white candle symbolizes the purity of those comrades who fought for our nation…
Cue SGT to Invert Empty Glass:The glass is inverted; they cannot toast with us this night…
Cue SGT to lean chair against table:The chair is empty; he is not here…
Remember, all of you who served with them and called them comrade, who depended upon their might and aid, and relied upon them, for surely they have not forgotten you.

It is our hope this night, that with pride and honor, they will hear us as we toast their ultimate sacrifice to their Country’s call to arms.”

(pause)
Members of the Mess, I propose a toast to our fallen comrades”
All: (Silence)
(TAPS is played)