TOP 10 MILITARY RETIREMENT GIFTS YOUR MILITARY FRIENDS WILL LOVE
When members of the military retire, a celebration is in order, and where there is a celebration, there should be gifts. Serving in any branch of the military is a difficult and noble feat. No matter how humble a Veteran may be about their service, it’s a nice gesture to provide a gift not only as a thank you but as congratulations as they transition into civilian life. Military retirement gifts can be provided in many ways, including the usual, the sentimental, and even gifts that are simply focused on an individual’s interest. More like this:12 Top Father’s Day Gifts for Military Dads
10 Military Retirement Gift Ideas for the Veteran in Your Life
1. Military Shadow Boxes
A pre-assembled large shadow box display case is a great gift, as it allows Veterans to proudly display and maintain their medals, collectibles, and even their uniform after service. There are different sizes and options available, making it a standard gift option.
2. Personalized Plaques
Similar to a military shadow box, a personalized military service medallion plaque is a great way for Veterans to remember their service and mark the end of it. You can have it customized with a specific branch’s oath and medallion, making it a great addition to any home or office.
3. Model Ships or Aircraft
Military retirement gifts for Navy Veterans don’t get much better than a model of the ship they once served on. The same can be said for military retirement gifts involving Air Force Veterans and their aircraft. If your Vet is a builder, then finding a model that can be put together only adds that much more to the experience.
4. Custom Drink Sets and Bar Kits
A custom drink set for military personnel retiring is a great gift for many Veterans. Alternatively, a custom flask may also get the job done. For those who are just as interested in building drinks as they are consuming them, a nice bar kit can help your Veteran elevate their home bar.
5. Book a Personal Trip or Experience
Things are temporary, but experiences last a lifetime. Being in the military can make it difficult to fit in extracurriculars at times. If there's a trip or experience, such as a resort or tickets to a ball game that has been pushed to the back burner, gifting them that opportunity can mean the world to them.
6. Something Specific to Their Interests
While vague, one of the best military retirement gifts is to provide a Veteran with something for their favorite hobby. If they're into woodcarving, provide tools. If your Veteran is an avid golfer, a new set of clubs may suffice. Whatever their passion, dive in and provide a gift they’ll use again and again.
7. Military Challenge Coin Displays
Earning challenge coins during service is a rite of passage for many Veterans throughout various service branches. Gifting military challenge coin displays allows retired military personnel the chance to show them off with style and dignity.
8. Military Retirement Tumblers
Tumblers make great gifts for retired military, as they're versatile in use. Perfect for coffee, sodas, teas, mixed drinks, and more, no matter what they prefer, military retirement tumblers keep drinks at the perfect temperature. They can also be personalized.
9. A Trip to the Spa
A restful recharge after a long career of service can be a great option for Veterans transitioning to civilian life. The beauty of a spa day is that there are so many options, so you can find a package that fits the Veteran you're gifting.
10. Retired Apparel
From funny to crass to sarcastic and more, there's no shortage of military retirement shirts, mugs, hats, and decor that are perfect for retired Veterans. A popular go-to is this RETIRED military phonetic alphabet t-shirt fit for Veterans from all military branches.
What Is an Appropriate Gift for Military Retirement?
The truth is that gifts for military retirement have quite a range, and the best ones will depend on the Veteran. A flask is a popular option but would be terrible for someone looking to cut back on drinking. Purchasing a military shadow box is great, but not for someone who is less sentimental. Overall, you’ll need to take some time to seek a gift that matches their personality. Speaking to their inner circle, getting a gift tied to a memory you both share, or even taking a glance at their social media accounts can help you gauge different ideas.
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The Best Military Retirement Gifts Come From the Heart
Gifts for Veterans come in all shapes and sizes. There are many considerations, and everyone is different, but the best options will come from the heart. Cliché? Maybe. But there is a reason for it: because it’s true. This doesn’t mean you have to get overly sappy or sentimental. It also doesn’t mean you have to get the most obscure gift possible or something with deep meaning. The end goal is to provide military retirement gifts to Veterans that show you gave thought to them as an individual and are wishing them a wonderful transition into civilian life after a period of service. Suggested read:Smart Parents Gear Up w/ These 10 VITAL Tactical Baby Gear Products
Image: J TRED WOODWORKING
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