What is the true meaning behind shadow boxes?

SFC William Stephens A. Jr., 3 MSM, JSCM They are a Navy tradition that dates back the the age of sail. It was believed that when a Sailor retired and departed his ship for the the last time, most having been on the same one their entire career, that it was bad luck for his shadow to touch land before he did. His shipmates would therefore create a box made of fine woods, which they put all of the Sailors "memorabilia" he had collected throughout his career. This box which was a "shadow" of his life was kept onboard until the Sailor was safely ashore, ensuring he touch land before his shadow, at which time he was presented his shadow box in a small ceremony.

I know the ones we put together when working at casualty assistance on the VA work study program really meant a lot to the families of fallen Soldiers and the families of repatriated MIA Soldiers. They were a tangible reflection of what their loved ones had achieved as Soldiers.

Put mine together this year.....it's a great source of pride every time I look at it and am reminded of everywhere I served. Should have done it years ago.