How to Fill a Shadow Box for a Military Retirement
According to goatlocker.org (see References), shadow boxes find their roots in naval history, serving both as a place to store collected achievements and a place to keep one's shadow so it doesn't precede him off the ship. Whether these legends are true, shadow boxes are a traditional gift for military retirements. When planning a military retirement, preparing a shadow box is among the most important tasks.
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Things You'll Need
- Shadow box
- American flag
- Medals
- Ribbons
- Rank insignia
- Etched plaque
- Patches and other memorabilia
- Glue or mounting tape
Instructions
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1
Choose a shadow box design that fits the interests of the retiree. Designs range from a square or triangle to anchors and insignia.
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2
Fold a flag, into the traditional triangle, and place it in the corner of the box or in the designated area.
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3
Engrave a plaque for the shadow box, with significant details such as the retiree's name, rank, duty stations or dates of enlistment or commission and retirement.
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4
Mount the plaque on the green or blue felt on the inside of shadow box, with either glue or mounting tape.
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5
Collect all memorabilia from the retiree's career. This includes every ribbon and medal awarded and every rank insignia earned. Also gather any specialty insignia, such as aviator wings, and any significant patches or pins, such as a Marine Corps pin.
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6
Pin the medals and ribbons in order of importance into the felt. The order should range from the most prestigious down to the most common.
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7
Arrange the patches, badges and insignia around the shadow box, according to your preference, and attach them by pinning, gluing or sewing them to the felt.
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8
Close the box and wrap for presentation at the retirement.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Arrangement in shadow box is not officially standardized. You can prepare them in anyway you find interesting and professional.
Many former military members and others do professional shadow box preparation. It may be worth your time and money to pay someone to take this off your list.
