Retiring marks a big life change.
Military retirements can be emotional for the retiree, his family and peers. It is the culmination of a military career, and brings feelings of relief, regret and rejoicing. If you are participating in a retirement ceremony or know someone who is retiring from a military career, give her a gift that will commemorate this special day.
Keepsakes
Shadow boxes are a traditional gift given to many retiring military members. Shadow boxes consist of wooden boxes, of various shapes, with a glass top. The box is filled with insignia, decals, patches, ribbon, medals and other uniform paraphernalia. The contents of the box tell the story of the service member's career, as it often contains symbols of every rank the member held and every award he was given. Any special insignia, denoting his specialty such as wings, may also be placed in the box. There might also be a nametag or name plate, and dates of service.
Include a folded and framed American flag. Another popular gift, especially among retiring chiefs or senior enlisted, is a cutlass or sword. Many retirees also appreciate challenge coins, commemorating certain events or locations.
Memorabilia
If you know the service member well or served alongside her in a particular stage in her career, purchase her a gift that reflects her career as a whole or a specific event. For instance, if the retiree spent her entire time on submarines, purchase a large painting or print of submarines in action. If she was an aviator or aircrew, and you served with her in a particular squadron, buy her a model of a plane she flew or worked on, with markings from that squadron. Unique artwork, depicting her job, especially deployed in combat or nestled in history, will be memorable additions to her office. Another option is to print a picture that she may or may not be aware of, and have it framed. It might depict her in uniform, with family, deploying, coming home, working or hanging out with peers. These memories will serve as wonderful reminders of her time in service.
Preparations
As a retiree leaves the military, one of the most nerve-wrecking and exciting aspects of retirement is his new job and opportunities. If you know where he will be working or volunteering, you can buy him a gift to fit specific needs. For instance, he may need a new briefcase. If you don't know where he will go, get him a gift card to a store that sells business wear. Unfortunately, he will most likely be unable to wear those faithful uniforms he has been wearing for the last two decades or more. A gift card will help him buy that new wardrobe.
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