What's your most memorable military gift?

2014-01-18T23:35:26-05:00

Throughout our careers we've traveled to many places, met many people, and experienced different cultures where often small gifts are given, and mementos or tokens of appreciation exchanged... along w/ great stories and interesting histories... so, what were yours? It could have something given or received for an end-of-tour, PCS, retirement, graduation or other special event; perhaps something to/from coalition/interagency partners, coworkers, or a token of appreciation for those who worked for you, or even from a family member for a military-related event (or even a military-related gift for a birthday, holiday or other event). Also, for our 'out-of-the-box' thinkers out there, it could've even a piece of advice or something different altogether. Please feel free to share photos, links, text, descriptions or anything needed to tell your story; over the years I've seen some really great items with some absolutely amazing stories. I'm sure this will be a fun and informative discussion, so let's get this thing started; thank you for all that you, and... see you all in the discussion threads!

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 18 at 2014 11:36 PM

2014-01-18T23:36:30-05:00

The colors of my first company as a 1SG for sure

Response by Cpl Ray Fernandez made Jan 18 at 2014 11:41 PM

2014-01-18T23:41:54-05:00

July 24, 2000 the day my platoon returned from Westpac, getting my 67 Mustang back after my dad and uncle worked on it for me.<br>

Response by LT Jessica Kellogg made Jan 19 at 2014 9:47 AM

2014-01-19T09:47:03-05:00

When I commissioned, my uncle gave me a 1943 edition of the Blue Jackets Manual that had belonged to my grandmother's brother (I think). 

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 19 at 2014 2:53 PM

2014-01-19T14:53:57-05:00

This one was a bit tough to decide on. When I left the NCOA at Fort Stewart, the other SGL's got together and got me a plaque like none other. You see, one of out former students drew caricatures of all the instructors. They took the one of me and has it laser engraved on a plaque. It is absolutely my favorite!

Response by CPO Jon Campbell made Jan 19 at 2014 3:48 PM

2014-01-19T15:48:08-05:00

I received a drinking horn while I was in Georgia and it is in a prominent place on my wall. My other favorite is the engraved model 1860 chief's cutlass I received from my crew at my retirement.
I worked with the Glock factory in Austria to have a Glock pistol custom engraved for a CWO who retired. It was one of the nicest retirement gifts I have seen.

Response by Lt Col Luis A. Rojas made Jan 19 at 2014 4:02 PM

2014-01-19T16:02:22-05:00

I have had so many different gifts while in the military, but the one that comes to mind is the one I received from my last civilian job before going on active duty back in 1988. I worked at National Car Rental during my last 2-years in college and Air Force ROTC. My fellow co-workers surprised me with a very nice Cross Pen Set engraved "2LT Luis Rojas" as a graduation/commissioning/farewell gift. I think the most memorable gifts are the ones that are not expected.

Response by 1SG Michael Blount made Jan 19 at 2014 8:38 PM

2014-01-19T20:38:30-05:00

Don't know if  this  qualifies as a gift or not, but it's a citation from Col Jodie Osterman, USMC authorizing me to wear the 1st Mar Div  "Blue Diamond" as my Army CSIB.  I'll take that sucker to the grave, it means THAT much

Response by SSG Matt Murphy made Jan 19 at 2014 8:41 PM

2014-01-19T20:41:42-05:00

...Soldier of the Year '77 - HHD 1st SF BN 11th Special Forces Group (ABN), and a nice plaque to go with it....

Response by SGT Brendan Beely made Jan 19 at 2014 9:00 PM

2014-01-19T21:00:32-05:00

Hands down, far and away, a mug of dirt.<div><br></div><div>My first assignment was with an 82nd unit with a storied ad colorful history.  This particular company had a large cast iron cauldron filled with dirt.  But not just any dirt - dirt from every drop zone on Ft. Bragg and Camp Mackall, and from the ground of every deployment that the company had ever been on.  Soil from NTC, Vietnam, JRTC, Normandy, Afghanistan, Kuwait, Iraq, Pakistan, the Sinai...every single place that members of that unit had ever set foot, somebody managed to steal or smuggle some dirt home and mix it into that cauldron.</div><div><br></div><div>When somebody left, the unit bought them a unit beer stein from the Airborne PX on Ardennes, and the got to fill it from the 'Grit Bowl'.  Then the mug got passed around the formation, and while you held the mug, the floor was yours, and there were no rules.  Everything from teary eyed confessions of the eternal brotherly love born in combat to expeltive laden good riddances - every man was equal when it was their turn with the Grit Bowl.</div><div><br></div><div>I never thought I would cherish a few handfuls of earth so damn much, but the mug will forever hold a place of honor in my house.</div>

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 19 at 2014 9:38 PM

2014-01-19T21:38:04-05:00

a simple yet elegant way to show the units I've served in over the years....  access to their ERB helps out quite a bit!

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 20 at 2014 9:44 AM

2014-01-20T09:44:32-05:00

When I was a maintenance platoon leader, my guys made me a stand-up desk thingy out of a piece of sheet metal from one of our aircraft with a plaque riveted onto it. They had removed it to repair the helicopter due to battle damage- there is a bullet hole right through it. It has my name and stuff, a company coin above the entry hole, and the quote "freedom isn't free" on there.

Response by CMC Robert Young made Jan 20 at 2014 10:35 AM

2014-01-20T10:35:44-05:00

<p>While like most of us, I have benefited from the kindness of those with whom I've served so many times, I have two that are particularly special and mean the world to me; both from my last active duty assignment. The week before I departed, the unit's Chiefs' Mess took me to dinner and presented me with a paddle. It's adored with 'fancy work' on the shaft; a senior chief's anchor on the head; the unit crest on the bottom followed by the saying for which I became known when anybody asked for guidance, help or just an ear. Everybody signed the back of it and offered their kind words some of which almost reduced me to tears. It hangs on the wall of my office at home now. </p><p><br></p><p>The second is the Stars & Stripes that flew in front of the building on my last day. A member of the Colors Detail hauled it down, and gave it to me. I bought a case for it, and had the unit information etched into the glass. It sits on the bookcase in the same room.</p>

Response by SSG Gerhard S. made Jan 20 at 2014 10:37 AM

2014-01-20T10:37:29-05:00

My Team Members gave me a Walther PP on my retirement.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 20 at 2014 4:51 PM

2014-01-20T16:51:22-05:00

Best gift I've ever gotten was my detachment colors from my command of the HHD, 83rd OD BN. We inactivated the BN, so now it is a collectors item!

Best gift I ever gave, was to my 1SG. It was a replica katana samurai sword with black sheath (we served in Japan). A good 1SG needs a good sword and he was one of the best!

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 20 at 2014 5:07 PM

2014-01-20T17:07:13-05:00

When I enlisted my father gave me a plaque. This plaque is very important to me because it has all of his achievements, dates of rank, and an engraving talking about his character and leadership during his 28 year career. He was diagnosed with non-hodgkin's lymphoma, kidney cancer, and his heart is failing. That plaque is something that I have to remember him by so nothing else I receive whilst in the military will compare.

Response by SFC Charles W. Robinson made Jan 20 at 2014 5:14 PM

2014-01-20T17:14:41-05:00

I have had a few gifts that stood out over my career :

When I retired, one of the staff knew that I really loved to watch old John Wayne movies. They got me
a retirement plaque with a big picture of John Wayne on it.

When I left III Corps at Fort Hood they gave everyone that
was leaving a copy of “The History of the Signal Corps.” I love history and that was awesome.

When I left Fort Eustis, my Native American (First Peoples)
Chaplain gave me a ceremonial spear, “from one warrior to another.”

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 20 at 2014 7:54 PM

2014-01-20T19:54:06-05:00

I'd have to say my Iron Mike from HHB 18th ABN Corps And my Guidon with my BS & PH in it from AT-3 1-235th boys!! Can't choose!!!! Can you!!!

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 20 at 2014 8:45 PM

2014-01-20T20:45:54-05:00

In 2012 I was selected to take part in an exchange with the Japanese Air Self Defense Force (JASDF). Me and 5 other NCO's traveled to Hamamatsu AB and lived and worked with JASDF members in similar specialties to ours, and at the end of the event we exchanged gifts. Most of the gifts were small unit mementos or something funny related to something that happened during the exchange. When the gift giving was over, two of the JASDF NCO's came up and said they had gotten one more gift for the USAF members. They then proceeded to present each of us with a beautiful pair of hand painted chopsticks in a bamboo case. They had purchased these with their own money, and it was by far that most memorable gift I have yet received!

Response by SGT Thomas Lucken made Jan 21 at 2014 7:04 AM

2014-01-21T07:04:29-05:00

For me, it has to be my sons! Both were born overseas in Korea, both are great men. The one on the left, John just finished a 6 year hitch in the Army, with a tour in Afghanistan. He will be 25 in July. The one on the right, Jeff just turned 19 2 months ago and is in his 1st year of college. He graduated last spring with honors, also was 2 time All-Conference on offense and defense as a lineman, along with several All-Area, All-Region, All-State in football.... He played college football this past fall as a freshman and played quite a bit till hurt.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 22 at 2014 4:43 PM

2014-01-22T16:43:42-05:00

I haven't received that many gifts but one of them stands out. The reason is that those who worked for me gave it to me. And for that, it's my most treasured item. The officers usually gave going away gifts but our "troops" usually didn't participate with that. Mainly I don't think we wanted to burden them with pitching in on the gifts.

At any rate, two of us were leaving, both LTs. We were surprised when they got us paddles and signed the backs. It hadn't been done in our unit for O's in a while but it was very touching. We even got mugs with our names on them and our leaving unit. Very thoughtful and heartfelt.

I like to say, as much as they worked for me, I worked for them. It was a team effort. While they could and would be successful without me, I know without a doubt I would not be successful without them.

Response by GySgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 22 at 2014 8:37 PM

2014-01-22T20:37:51-05:00

I have a framed print of a painting that depicts a WWI Marine bayonetting a German Soldier during the Battle of Belleau Wood that was presented to me. The frame was outlined by a French Fourragere which makes the whole gift special to me since I spent 7 out of 9 years of my career with 5th Marines.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 23 at 2014 8:41 PM

2014-01-23T20:41:09-05:00

We were in Baghdad at Camp 4 Heads (later known as Prosperity) 03-04. There were 4 large busts of Saddam on top of the palace which we took down. There was a local Iraqi who took one of the heads and cut it up, melted some of the bronze down and made a few hundred coins for us. So we have this nice big BRONZE coin that's made of Saddam's head. Only our BN and the MP's attached to us have them... if a coin counts as a gift?

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 24 at 2014 5:49 AM

2014-01-24T05:49:35-05:00

My favorite physical gift is a framed ink drawing of the White House with Marine One landing on the south lawn. It's matted with a unit coin and a MilAide coin. Non-physical (?), one of the Soldiers from the AIT company I was training/ops at ended up assigned to me a few years later, and he thanked me for my guidance and help when he was a student. That meant a great deal.

Response by LTJG Robert M. made Jan 24 at 2014 3:14 PM

2014-01-24T15:14:22-05:00

When I left my last ship, I was Ops, the Operations Crew took down the battle streamer from the Mast and the Ensign that we had flown since I had been aboard and presented them to me. Small token but meant the world to me, they fly on my wall to this day.

Response by MAJ Joseph Parker made Jan 24 at 2014 6:01 PM

2014-01-24T18:01:46-05:00

<p>MAJ Burns: Like all of you I have many awards, medals, and gifts from my men, officers, peers, family, diplomats, and even foreign dignitaries and Presidents (ours and others). However, the gift I treasure most was given to me by my son-in-law, SGT Chris Williams, USMC. He was married to our youngest daughter Patricia. While he was off fighting in Fallujah, she fell ill with the flu and died at home, alone, in bed. It happened very quickly. She was found by her mother-in-law less than 12 hours after she had fallen ill and went to bed. Every SM here can understand what these circumstances would have on a young Marine in combat. The Corps had him back in Norfolk in 3 days. It gave him 6 months of stateside duty before sending him back to the fight, this time in Afghanistan.</p><p><br></p><p>While in Afghanistan my young widower son-in-law sent me this gift as you see it in the picture; a framed Certificate made out to me and signed by him, a USMC MSG, and the USMC DET CDR (a colonel). The Certificate says "For your service to the Armed Forces of the United States of America, The enclosed flag was flown over Bagram Airfield, Bagram, Afghanistan on May 10th, 2009".  </p><p><br></p><p>What a selfless young Marine! He's lost his wife, he is on continual overseas combat tours, and he takes the time to honor MY service! I know now why my daughter married him! This country will always be free as long as we have young men and women of this caliber protecting us. I'd rather have this than the MOH.</p><p><br></p><p>Chris is now a SSG, is remarried, and assigned as the DET CDR for the Marine Guards at the US Embassy in Bolivia. His father is a retired USN MCPO. SSG Williams has had overseas tours in Niger, Finland, Bolivia, Iraq, and Afghanistan; and when stateside plays on the Marine rugby team. My daughter Patricia was a graduate of the Pratt Institute and an architect when she passed away, and is interred in Tacoma.</p><p><br></p><p>Pictures L to R: Gift. Chris and Patricia just prior to his Iraq deployment. Patricia, her sister Laura, my wife of 40 years (also Patricia), and Samson...our last Christmas together.</p>

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 24 at 2014 8:02 PM

2014-01-24T20:02:49-05:00

My blood wings, when I graduated from jump school. Pinned on by the legendary LTC Leonard B. Scott! I am among a brotherhood that has had that privilege. LTC Scott was an exemplary leader of men, and showed us what it was to be a paratrooper. Class 21-86 was taken to the airborne walk, just prior to it's completion at Ft. Benning. There, LTC Scott gave us a motivational speech. What I remember the most, was him telling us "Just like the commercial says 'BE ALL YOU CAN BE'. I AM all there is to be!" And he was. This man had done everything the army had made available, and done it well. Airborne! All the way sir!

Response by MAJ Jim Woods made Jan 25 at 2014 11:42 AM

2014-01-25T11:42:50-05:00

A Montagnard bracelet given to me by a tribe (there were approximately 30 tribes)near Pleiku, Vietnam as a token of friendship and trust. 

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 25 at 2014 12:55 PM

2014-01-25T12:55:37-05:00

Sir,<div><br></div><div>Bringing all my soldiers home from six combat deployments. A gift from God!</div>

Response by SGT Robert R. made Jan 26 at 2014 9:21 AM

2014-01-26T09:21:02-05:00

When we were closing Field Station Berlin, Top called me one day and told me to report to his office after my shift. He wouldn't tell me why and I always hated that. When I got to his office, he gave me a bat that I used to play softball with. I had a son born in Berlin and missed many games and tournaments, but would go to the games after the hospital to be with the team. That bat signified to me that I had what it took to be recognized as a part of team and the team recognized me for such.

Maybe corny but it beat any commander's coin, plaque or military medal that I ever received.

Response by CPT Mike M. made Jan 27 at 2014 1:42 PM

2014-01-27T13:42:40-05:00

I love the Cav. As such, when I was in command of my old Tank Company, when I Cav'd up, I went all out and had my spurs, Stetson, and saber to unit formations, unit runs, any big gathering and things like that (Note to everyone else, wearing a saber to a unit ball is ok. When everyone goes out to the bar afterward, bringing a saber into a bar is not!). So when I left command and received my farewell gift from my Company. My 1SG said "So, we were trying to think of what to get for a crazy ass Commander who wears his saber everywhere. So what did we get him? ANOTHER WEAPON!" The gift was an engraved wooden plaque with a replica old fashioned cavalry revolver on it. I had never seen anything like that before and love it. I miss my old Comanches!

Response by Col Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 27 at 2014 8:56 PM

2014-01-27T20:56:13-05:00

If you all are enjoying this discussion, there are a few other ongoing discussions that you might find interesting... thank you for all that you do, and... see you all in the discussion threads!

Response by 1SG Jacob Paddon made Jan 27 at 2014 9:27 PM

2014-01-27T21:27:19-05:00

as a PSG for a OH-58D Cav unit I was in charge of the best group of Soldiers I have ever had the priveledge of serving with. I was very suprised by the gift they gave me but it was very fitting. During our going away lunchean they had presented me this "Soap Box" that they had spent a lot of time and effort on by personallizing it with a coin/company deployment poker chips/unit insignia painting/and my name. I am a very strong believer that communication is the key to any great leader and the easiest form of communication and most effective to me is verbal. Obvisouly they felt that I like to toot my horn a little too much after each formation:-) Along with this soap box, a few of the Soldiers whom my family and I were close with added the Over/Under 12gauge shotgun with our Unit belt buckle emplaced in the butt stock as their personal thanks for my friendship/leadership. They were well aware that I love the outdoors and love shooting me some birds:-)

Response by SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 30 at 2014 1:57 AM

2014-01-30T01:57:46-05:00

As a Pv2 I was selected to go on a Joint exercise in korea. KFOR08. The CPT was fired from the BUB briefing for reasons not important. I was the only other AVN rep from DIVISION. So when GEN Bell asked who else is here to represent, a BTL LTC from Oregon that had adopted me as his project, pointed at me, with a big old smile. So with some guidance from the fires chiefs I did our part of the bub briefing. Looking back on it now, I thought the gift I received was the award or the coin, but I realized it was the confidence and the opportunity to do something that far above my grade. Its the single most influential part of my career and it has made me into the staff specialist I am today lol. So if that LTC happens to be on RP, I owe ya SIR!

Response by SSG Oliver Mathews made Feb 2 at 2014 2:13 AM

2014-02-02T02:13:14-05:00

I have only recieved one gift and that was a Guidon, given to my on my third deployment signed by everyone at the 173rd BDE TAC in Kabul. I keeps it safe at all times

Response by SSG Richard McMurray made Feb 3 at 2014 1:55 AM

2014-02-03T01:55:16-05:00

I have to say that I have three different gifts that are very special to me. It is hard to say that one is more special than another. One is a coin from General Schoomaker. I was on a C-130 in Iraq in which he was traveling on. There was about 10 soldiers on that flight, and when we landed he gave us all a coin. Another was a coin from my Battalion Commander, who I still look up to this day. He was actually my first BN Cdr. After taking over the S-1 by myself, in Iraq as a newly promoted SPC with less than one year in service, I was given the coin in front of the entire BN. It meant a lot to me to know that he thought I had done a good job. Finally, when I PCS'd out of the 101st, the departing plaque is also very special to me. Being a part of the 101st is one of the things that I am most proud of with my career.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 5 at 2014 7:36 PM

2014-02-05T19:36:30-05:00

After I got my citizenship, I received a US Flag that was flown in a A-10 Warthog over Afghanistan. It was a surprise done by a member of my PRT at Bagram Airbase.

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 7 at 2014 9:34 PM

2014-02-07T21:34:38-05:00

Maj,

Being recognized for my hard work and accomplishments.

Your?

Response by SSgt George Brown made Feb 7 at 2014 11:13 PM

2014-02-07T23:13:29-05:00

Being coined for special ops. It was just an honor.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 9 at 2014 6:40 PM

2014-02-09T18:40:31-05:00

I certainly didn't expect it, it was left unceremoniously on my desk for me to find. An eagle sitting atop some rocks that was given to me by a young Captain as I was about to PCS. Along with it came a card that thanked me for the last three years of leadership and mentoring to the then brand new 1st Lieutenant who was assigned to work with me in the Current Ops/Aircrew scheduling section of our squadron. I also participated in many late night study sessions with him to prepare him for our unit mission qualification, then later when he became an Aircraft Commander, I proudly flew with him and mentored him further in his pursuit of upgrade to Instructor Pilot.

It was the most touching thing I ever received in my military career.

Response by SGT Carissa Lara, RCS made Feb 9 at 2014 9:32 PM

2014-02-09T21:32:08-05:00

My most memorable military gift was the gift I received when I left my first duty station. After deploying with those guys for a year and putting some of them back together my platoon gave me a very lovely plaque. My name was spelled wrong! I felt very loved and appreciated.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 11 at 2014 6:01 AM

2014-02-11T06:01:12-05:00

Actually I have two, I was TDY to FT Sam Houston and I was given in a frame a collage of pictures from all the Wounded Warriors while I served as their sqaudleader. From the same place, everyone knew I liked to chew gum and I was given about 50 packs of gum to take back with me to FT Campbell. I received some professional gifts but the two gifts were wonderful because it was personal.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 11 at 2014 7:57 AM

2014-02-11T07:57:13-05:00

not sure if this would be concidered a gift but...it would be the day i left 55th signal company to go back to germany. they didnt like me there and i didnt like being there. so it would be like a gift for everyone.

Response by Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 11 at 2014 8:41 AM

2014-02-11T08:41:58-05:00

What a great question. I have received many amazing gifts over the years, coincidentally I think my favorite one was the most recent. While deployed I mentored an incredibly sharp Army LT; we got to know each other b/c at one point we were the only female officers (one other) at our location. We developed Wingwoman Wednesday together (she's continuing it on), and it was wonderful getting to know her and support her. Before departing she quoted a poem from a book she treasured about (warning - I will butcher this) how to show someone how important they are to you, you should give them something you yourself find most important...she have me her "Oozlefinch" coin, she carried it around with her during her whole deployment and previous ones, and actually gave it to me. I was speechless and anyone who knows me, knows that never happens! I am truly honored. It was so personal and special that I almost do not want to share with others, but since you asked...

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 12 at 2014 3:59 PM

2014-02-12T15:59:44-05:00

I'm a Plans Officer who worked for about a year with a LTC who was a huge Greek and Roman history buff.

When he PCS'd, he gave me a statue of Athena, the Greek Goddess who is sister to Ares, God of War. Athena is known for reason and intellect, and contrasts her brother's penchant for war at all costs by fiercely fighting only just warfare, undertaken with a strategic goal in mind.

It was a hell of a compliment.

Response by SGT Dan Knispel made Feb 13 at 2014 5:27 PM

2014-02-13T17:27:10-05:00

I have to say that my most treasured gift is a simple axe handle. It was the custom of the NCOs at the division chemical staff (24th ID Ft Stewart) to pass on the "NCO Club" to all of the NCOs that worked for them. It was purchased at the local SSSC, signed by everyone, given a coat of whatever sealer they could find in the supply room and then presented to the departing NCO. I have it hanging in my garage where I see it every day. I spent some of my best time in the army learning the chemical craft from the officers and NCOs there. And in a nod to the cavalry captain listed above I also have my spurs hanging in the garage too (11th ACR, Fulda, Germany).

Response by CPT Mike B Martinez Ramirez made Feb 22 at 2014 12:59 AM

2014-02-22T00:59:31-05:00

My most memorable military gift I would say was the unit's guidon. I have been in the unit for 8 years as an enlisted Soldier and I commissioned in the same unit and deployed twice with them for a total of 12.5 years. I had the opportunity to be a team leader, squad leader, operation NCO, Platoon Leader, Executive Officer and the Company Commander before I left the unit.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 22 at 2014 1:34 AM

2014-02-22T01:34:35-05:00

I don't think that I have been in long enough to get one of those really precious memorable gifts yet but, I did recently receive this award/gift from my Chief and OIC for my work I did in our Collection Management section while we were in Afghanistan this past year.

It meant A LOT to me because even though I am an intel analyst and I am in a support MOS; directing UAV/UAS assests to personnel who were in a TIC (Troops in contact) quickly and in time to get ISR overhead and make enemy firing location call outs or eliminate enemy personnel with UAV munitions, makes a huge difference and can and did save several lives.

And that is a big reason I joined, to help make a difference and help my Battles make it back home to their wives, babies, and families... I really like what I do while deployed and I cannot wait to get back (as strange as that sounds) and aid in saving more lives and doing meaningful work.

Response by SFC Joe S. Davis Jr., MSM, DSL made Feb 24 at 2014 10:29 PM

2014-02-24T22:29:44-05:00

MY Most precious and deserving award, hands down is my Drill Sergeant Stand being presented to me Jan 30, 2008 for successful duty as a Drill Sergeant; it was very deserving, because of the sacrifice I made on the trail. To be recognized by your peers as a success was admirable and an accomplishment of a life time.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 5 at 2014 6:50 PM

2014-03-05T18:50:27-05:00

It may not seem like much, but I was touched at least. I had returned from Afghanistan and was on leave visiting family. My wife and I were greeted by signed of welcome and yellow-ribbon galore. Well after coming back from visiting other family, we found a coin along with a dollar store american flag sitting on the porch. The coin was from an Air Force colonel in a medical division. There was no note, or other indication of who left it, but its message was quite clear. Just that little bit of gratitude, respect, and appreciation from whatever colonel was passing by my childhood home said a lot more than the countless statements of, "Thank you for your service" we all have received.

Response by CSM(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 5 at 2014 8:47 PM

2014-03-05T20:47:52-05:00

I'm a big fan of the Battle Mug....but then I know the guy...

http://www.battlemug.com

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 6 at 2014 10:43 PM

2014-03-06T22:43:12-05:00

This.

Response by SPC David Wyckoff made Mar 7 at 2014 3:44 PM

2014-03-07T15:44:09-05:00

<P>A memory.</P>
<P>My foster son gave me the distinct honor of "turning him Blue". He had spent most of his teen years in my house, eating at my table, running with my kids. I treated him exactly like I treated my own. I was a hard ass when it warranted it and I was a softie when that was called for. I had no idea that he had been affected that much by anything I had said or done. I was just me. </P>
<P>But he asked me to pin his Blue cord, and I did. <BR>That was my most memorable military gift.</P>

Response by SFC Dan Sorrow, M.S. made Mar 9 at 2014 6:30 PM

2014-03-09T18:30:06-04:00

A shadow box when I retired in 2000 with all my awards and decorations, rank insignia, Drill Sergeant badge, Recruiter badge, and Instructor badge.

Response by SFC Larry Rosenthal made Mar 9 at 2014 6:53 PM

2014-03-09T18:53:48-04:00

I was activated in 2006 for deployment to Afghanistan. I had always been in a line unit and was put into a personnel and postal unit. Needless to say I butted heads with the paper pushers, both in front of my section and to the side. I held as much ground as possible. Once we deployed to Afghanistan, the command staff didn't know what to do with this older outspoken NCO (E7 and 56 years old). They put temporarily assigned me to another unit, for perimeter security.

About six months in I went home on R & R, only to find out I had Cancer. Needless to say I could not get back to my unit overseas.

During my time going through Chemo and feeling low, one of my lower NCOs (E5), sent me an email. In it he and the section missed me along with many other junior enlisted. While over there he got promoted and I sent him congratulations.

His answer and probably the nicest thing anyone has ever said to me unsolicited: I got my promotion, because of you. You showed me how to act as an NCO and how to take care of the people beneath my rank, no matter in my squad, company, or battalion. You trained me and showed how to earn my promotion. I hope always to emulate what a fine NCO you are. We who served with you miss you, cause no one will take care of us like you did.

That one email, showed me, that standing up for what is right, not necessarily the most popular, and taking care of your troops is what NCOs are all about.

Response by SFC Gary (Bigsarge) Portier USARMY RET. made Mar 11 at 2014 12:43 PM

2014-03-11T12:43:40-04:00

A metal Jeep given to me by one of my Soldiers. I wish I could find out who the maker is. A drawing given to me by another Soldier I hope he becomes an Artist and make my drawing priceless.

Response by SSG Roderick Smith made Mar 11 at 2014 1:11 PM

2014-03-11T13:11:07-04:00

When the 728th MP BN was packing up to move from Korea to Hawaii, I was working in the BN S2 shop. I was digging through some boxes one day, and I found a print that I had seen painted in various places and had always liked. It was a drawing of an MP mounted on a HMMWV behind a MK19, with an eagle and an American flag in the background. "Warfighters" was emblazoned across the top. I asked my NCO if i could keep it, but he snatched it away with a firm "No!". I let it go and forgot about it. When I PCSd, he presented it to me in a plaque. That is still my most memorable and cherished military gift.

Response by CWO2 Shelby DuBois made Mar 13 at 2014 10:15 AM

2014-03-13T10:15:45-04:00

Too many tear jerk stories on here.... I was on a General's staff and did a lot of inspections at Marine Air Groups...putting things in place and offering guidance and in particular enforcing regs. So when I left I thought it odd when I received a very nice, very ornate plaque with a nice inscription that said my proclivity for "... attention to detail and reconcilliation...." . When I pointed out the mispelled word they were embarrassed and offered right away to have another one made, but I refused...Just a reminder that everyone and everything is fallable. This is much more personal... Ooorah..

Response by CWO2 Shelby DuBois made Mar 14 at 2014 9:16 AM

2014-03-14T09:16:33-04:00

When I was in grade school and high school I took part in various activities and was often awarded with a "Certificate of Participation" for just being there. Had to laugh when, at the end of Desert Storm I was presented with a "Operation Desert Storm ...Certificate of Particpation" from the Navy staff I supported. Gosh I can't wait to see the Grandkids fight over this!

Response by SGT Bryon Sergent made Mar 14 at 2014 9:23 AM

2014-03-14T09:23:41-04:00

Well I deployed with the Ky National Guard right after 9/11 to Belgium for Force protection. We where on our down cycle. We worked 3 1/2 on and 3 1/2 days off. Our Co was split to 3 different areas. A friend and I went to visit some of our guys that was in the Netherlands. Left early that morning and after a 3 hr drive we arrive at the NATO base. They had the day off, but had to complete NBC training. There was a GP small set up as the gas chamber. Well a buddy of mine dared me to go in the tent, I refused as I was in civy's. Well got a double dog dare, can't turn that down. So went in the tent just as the pellets are melting. Him and I come out sling snot and crying all while laughing our butts off. Well unbeknow to us the SMG and our Squad leader was standing there watching. The SMG walks up and asks us, what the He!! we are doing and why did we go in. My answer was " well SGM he double dog dared me and you can't turn it down". His answer was"I have a Co of MP's in MOPP 4, and crying and whining that the have to do this and you 2 Infantry hodlems just waltz up and go in, in uniform and Civy's." just shook his head and gave each of us a coin! Then Just walked away. Took me 2 weeks to get the smell outta my clothes! LMAO.

Response by SSG Arturo R. made Mar 14 at 2014 7:20 PM

2014-03-14T19:20:48-04:00

I have actually been in for almost 16 years this May and have never received a military gift from any unit I have been in. Would of been awesome if I got a saber sword. lol

Response by SPC Michael Hunt made Mar 20 at 2014 11:10 PM

2014-03-20T23:10:25-04:00

A hand written letter from President George W. Bush came at Christmas 2004, with thanks for my role in his campaign. Very touching.

Response by Thomas Rancourt made Mar 21 at 2014 1:13 PM

2014-03-21T13:13:28-04:00

I would say it was a Tuareg belt-knife a shopkeeper in Afghanistan gave me. I was a regular customer who loved antiquities, and would pick up little odds and ends every so often. It was my final month there, and the shopkeeper said "My friend, my friend, I have gift!" being a little cautious I kept a hand on my rifle and advanced into the shop a little bit, keeping the door open and a good spot in mind should things go wrong, while keeping a professional attitude. He disappears into the shop and comes out holding a long, thin package, and unwraps it. My jaw dropped at a beautifully crafted Tuareg Belt knife that I know I would of had to pay through the nose to obtain, let alone be able to just hold one from a museum. He handed to me and said "Thank you so much for buying from me." I tried to refuse, claiming I was unworthy of it, but he was adamant. He then told me in some broken English that "I had helped keep his shop afloat" and that he was grateful for my "helping protect them with the US". I was literally stunned, and ever since I have kept it on my wall, and have been crafting a plaque to go with it. That was the most memorable gift I had ever obtained in service, and on-deployment.

Response by CMSgt Charles Elliott made Mar 21 at 2014 1:31 PM

2014-03-21T13:31:31-04:00

The top is the shadow box I received during my retirement ceremony. The next most memorable is a gift from the 61 AMU which is a single gun barrel from an F-16C Fighter that was chromed and mounted on a board with a 20 mm chrome shell in the "chamber." Another is a lamp made from a BDU-33, very heavy but I will never forget the troops that gave this to me!

Response by Col Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 21 at 2014 4:27 PM

2014-03-21T16:27:00-04:00

I am an RMO junkie and my most memorable military gift is an RMO issued by former Air Force Chief of Staff, General Jumper. I was deployed to Iraq as a 1Lt working at EMEDS as a critical care nurse. During the deployment, my head nurse selected me to have lunch with the Air Force Chief of Staff. As a junior officer, I was clueless as to who or what that was, since I was more focused on my job as a critical care nurse. Imagine how humbled and surprised I was at the luncheon when I realized who it was. During the lunch he handed me his coin, which sits in the coin holder front and center.

Response by SPC Michael Hunt made Mar 21 at 2014 4:28 PM

2014-03-21T16:28:32-04:00

I gave an AK-47 bayonet to a really close Vietnam Veteran friend of mine... he wept.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 21 at 2014 4:29 PM

2014-03-21T16:29:15-04:00

A smoke session for turning 24 last year. :D

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 21 at 2014 5:58 PM

2014-03-21T17:58:39-04:00

A 2nd Ranger Battalion coin I got from my Ranger Buddy!

Response by CMSgt Robert Gates made Mar 21 at 2014 6:01 PM

2014-03-21T18:01:22-04:00

Receiving the Maintenance Man Statue when I retired. Next was the shadow box. The next was the Wing Safety Coin for the Benchmarking of my Squadron Safety Program by the Numbered AF. And I can never forget getting the "Com-Nav Bob" statue made from old headset parts made into a little statue with Chief Epaulets on the arms.

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 23 at 2014 7:59 AM

2014-03-23T07:59:02-04:00

When I left company command my unit presented me with a plaque that was a huge CIB with a rubber duck M16 replacing the musket. It had a smaller plaque and my other badges on it as well. I was also fortunate to be coined by President Bush in the Oval Office.

Response by Col Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 28 at 2014 7:57 PM

2014-03-28T19:57:03-04:00

This was a gift from a good friend who picked this up while pulling duty in this part of the world, it was originally attached to a stellar bottle of Vodka, great gift; the contents were too good to collect dust on the shelf, so all that remains is the label. :)

Response by PO1 William "Chip" Nagel made Mar 28 at 2014 8:02 PM

2014-03-28T20:02:12-04:00

Torn between the Shadow Box Given to me by the crew of USS Arkansas CGN-41 on my Retirement and the Blanket that my children bought me with my Rank/Rate sewn into it. love them both.

Response by SGT Suraj Dave made Mar 28 at 2014 9:16 PM

2014-03-28T21:16:23-04:00

Depends on what you consider a gift.

Here's some stuff no one ever asked for back from me (Plate Carrier). I kind of consider it a gift. Makes a nice conversation piece.

Then there's the coins. Also a nice conversation piece.

Response by LT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 30 at 2014 2:31 PM

2014-03-30T14:31:39-04:00

The best gifts I have received were letters from folks I took care of when I was deployed. I keep one of those letters with me everyday! It is not a polished letter full of compliments but it expresses pain and honesty. And as a medic the fact that a battled hardened "Route Clearance Sergeant" wrote it and gave it to me as he was going back to the fight will always stay with me.

Response by SGT Craig Northacker made Apr 11 at 2014 10:38 PM

2014-04-11T22:38:28-04:00

A Gerber when I was being deployed.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 11 at 2014 11:32 PM

2014-04-11T23:32:03-04:00

I'm not sure if this counts, but I got my ride out of Iraq on my birthday. Because of the time difference, I arrived in the US at the same time I left. It was a 36-hour birthday.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 12 at 2014 4:19 PM

2014-04-12T16:19:23-04:00

In Korea, you can get these nice deep cases that has a clock and a short sword inside with the standard plaque and coins. My FST went with the upgrade, and included a full bottle of Soju, which remains untouched since I received it in 2007.

Response by PFC Nathaniel Culbertson made Apr 22 at 2014 1:46 AM

2014-04-22T01:46:48-04:00

the travel the chance to serve in these units and some of the best son of bitches ever

Response by SN Craig Ralston made Apr 24 at 2014 6:43 PM

2014-04-24T18:43:13-04:00

Ironically, it's the challenge coin that I just received from a marine, when I was in the service I never really received any gifts other than training.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 24 at 2014 7:07 PM

2014-04-24T19:07:44-04:00

After thinking on it, I would have to say the best gift I have received is the great leadership and mentors. I also suppose those that were sub-standard are a gift as well, they can teach a young trooper more about what not to do/be than any other. I am more thankful for the great mentors and leaders and life long friends.

Response by PO2 Rocky Kleeger made Apr 24 at 2014 7:30 PM

2014-04-24T19:30:58-04:00

One of the coolest things I've ever received was the first tail hook point changed for our squadron during OEF.

Response by Col Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 27 at 2014 3:41 PM

2014-04-27T15:41:21-04:00

In order to promote further discussion and inter-service communication, here are just a few threads you'll want to check out; thank you for all that you do, and... see you all in the discussion threads!

Response by SGT Alison McArty made Apr 30 at 2014 1:06 PM

2014-04-30T13:06:18-04:00

My favorite is the battalion coin of the 1/152 Infantry in the Indiana National Guard. It was given to my by LTC James Gentry, the Battalion Commander, after spending 5 weeks at Camp Atterbury helping them mobilize in the early part of the Iraq War. While in Iraq, LTC Gentry and many of his soldiers were exposed to a carcinogen while providing security for a well known contractor. As a result, LTC Gentry died of lung cancer in 2009 at the age of 52. Rest in peace, Sir.

Response by LCpl Matt P. made May 9 at 2014 9:55 PM

2014-05-09T21:55:26-04:00

Of all the military "gifts" I received, only two come to mind, September 15th, 1980, Parris Island Marine Recruit Depot, seeing my father (World War II Army Air Corps) smiling and nodding as I was, for the first time, addressed as a United States Marine.
Second gift was a "Vermont Teddy bear" custom made in Marine Corps Dress Blues I got from my wife on Nov. 10th for my "Marine Birthday" (after over 20 years, she STILL is afraid to tell me how much she spent on that thing! LOL)

Response by Sgt Packy Flickinger made May 12 at 2014 11:55 PM

2014-05-12T23:55:37-04:00

When transferring from Mals 14 to Mals 12 they gave me an engraved and sharpened K-Bar.

Response by PO2 Robert Hunter made May 17 at 2014 2:02 PM

2014-05-17T14:02:55-04:00

Post Traumatic Stress and all the accompanying goodies that come with it... it never leaves my mind.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 2 at 2014 12:31 PM

2014-06-02T12:31:32-04:00

My DD214. lol I cried and yelled "Freedom" like Mel Gibson on Braveheart, but equal to that gift was the day that I was issued my Uniform, on both Occasions the Army and the Navy.

Response by MAJ Ron Peery made Jun 6 at 2014 11:53 AM

2014-06-06T11:53:51-04:00

Two plaques given to me by the NCO's who worked with me.....both unsolicited. When your NCO's chose to recognize your work, you must have done something right.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 8 at 2014 11:07 PM

2014-06-08T23:07:10-04:00

I used to have plaques and trophies from the bases i was stationed. Problem is that my ex wife took the house and burned it to the ground with all my stuff in it. so my plaques are gone but i am trying to get them back with some help from other service members

Response by CW5 Sam R. Baker made Jun 25 at 2014 5:15 PM

2014-06-25T17:15:20-04:00

Unexpectedly my subordinate Soldiers in my arms room in Honduras gave me a hand engraved Machete plaque that still hangs in my home, the most unique and worthy gift to date with a Saber being a close second.

Response by SPC Richard White made Jul 29 at 2014 10:16 PM

2014-07-29T22:16:39-04:00

Actually the closest I got a military gift was my Uncle's Old Cadet bars from N.M.M.I. He passed them on to me when I became a cadet at N.M.M.I. and I wore them when I became an Old Cadet and I still have them to this day.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 9 at 2014 8:03 PM

2014-10-09T20:03:17-04:00

So far this is my favorite. It is a piston from one of the generators I have worked on.

Response by SSG Maurice P. made Nov 2 at 2014 12:12 PM

2014-11-02T12:12:50-05:00

When i graduated from Parris Island my dad bought me a Marine Corps ring...

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 2 at 2014 5:08 PM

2014-11-02T17:08:43-05:00

Wish I had a picture, I got an etched bottle of jack daniels with my entire unit etched on it. Drank half of it in the last year...

Response by SFC Kenneth Hunnell made Nov 13 at 2014 9:04 PM

2014-11-13T21:04:27-05:00

I received a mug from a German family back in 1985, still have it. The family owns a guest house in kitzingen Germany.

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 13 at 2014 11:28 PM

2014-11-13T23:28:54-05:00

I have been in the Army 20 years now and my favorite gift is a small plaque that was made in Bosnia. It looks like a shield is made of hand carved wood. It's simple and solid and came from a group of men who I feel really appreciated my work as a Company XO. They'd had a bad run of officers and then I came in. It didn't cost them anything. It isn't fancy...but it let me know that what I had done mattered. That was an "aha" moment...and I've been hooked on leadership ever since.

Response by LT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 14 at 2014 12:55 AM

2014-11-14T00:55:43-05:00

I commissioned through the Seaman to Admiral-21 program, a program where enlisted members are sent to a NROTC unit and over a three year period earn a college degree/commission. While at Purdue University, a new CO took command. He is by far the best leader I have ever met or for whom I have worked. The NROTC unit was to be his final duty station before retirement. His retirement coincided with my commissioning and as an award, he presented me with his sword. It reminds me every day that I need to live up to his expectations and standard of leadership.

Response by PO3 Ben Wallace made Jan 7 at 2015 6:06 PM

2015-01-07T18:06:09-05:00

My Bluenose certificate from when we crossed the Arctic Circle.Another one was my commissioning certificate from the USS Wisconsin

Response by LTC Stephen C. made Jan 8 at 2015 1:49 PM

2015-01-08T13:49:45-05:00

Col Private RallyPoint Member, a good friend of mine flew the U.S. flag over Camp Eggers, Kabul, Afghanistan on 11SEP11, the ten year anniversary of the Twin Towers terrorist attack in New York City that occurred on 11SEP01. He presented it to me with this certificate when we met at Fort McClellan, AL on 18AUG12! I'm sure that this was one of many flown that day, but it was especially meaningful to me as I've been retired since 1998.

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 9 at 2015 9:13 PM

2015-01-09T21:13:38-05:00

Shortly before I ETS'd from the Navy, my boys in Deck Div bought me a Submarine Dolphins belt buckle engraved with my command and my nickname "3PON" (it stood for Third Class Petty Officer of the Navy, lol).

Response by SGM Mikel Dawson made Jan 9 at 2015 10:34 PM

2015-01-09T22:34:31-05:00

I received an engraved knife from one of my platoons, was great. Also when I departed a unit I was with in Berlin, I got a coffee mug with the unit crest!

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 9 at 2015 11:46 PM

2015-01-09T23:46:58-05:00

I was participating in a humanitarian assistance exercise in Indonesia. While we were rigging/recovering airdrop equipment the Indonesian riggers worked with us. We worked together, compared techniques, and even had a few Bintangs. (Bintang=Beer) At the end of the exercise they gave each member of our team one their service's rigger hats as a parting gift/memento. Awesome experience!

Response by SFC Jim Ruether made Dec 21 at 2016 8:18 PM

2016-12-21T20:18:54-05:00

My son Shane came back from a deployment and the ground crew for his aircraft were working in terrible conditions in the Middle Eastern Desert in Summer Time. The temps were so crazy the ground crews did most of their work at night when they could. Shane's crew however needed to do their jobs in the light of day. When Shane saw this he went straight to the makeshift BX and bought water, soft drinks, chips and any other snacks he could think of. When he approached the Maintenance Chief Master Sergeant with his horde of food and ice cold water in a cooler no less, the Chief told them that it wasn't allowed on the flight line or in the repair revetments but that he would see to it that the ground crew got this stuff. As he walked away the Chief stopped and turned to Shane and told him, "Sir, in my thirty + years in aircraft ground maintenance I have never seen an officer do this for his crew" as he scratched his head thinking, he said it would be an honor sir if you would accept this New Gerber Multi-tool as a sign of our thanks for thinking about us and then doing something about it too sir. The Master Sergeant made his presentation, Saluted my son Shane and after the salute was returned he smartly did an about face and went back to his maintenance area. When my son got home he told me about the gift of the Gerber from his maintenance sergeant and he said Dad this is for you. Without your guidance and love as I was growing up I may not have been so kind and thoughtful of my maintenance crew that day. It was the best award I have ever gotten and I remember both of us just standing there after he gave me this gift and then he hugged me and said quietly, "Thanks Dad"

Response by LT Leonard Fahrni made Dec 26 at 2016 6:34 PM

2016-12-26T18:34:59-05:00

My Uncle was a signalman on the USS Phoenix at Pearl harbor. When he passed away, I got his ribbon bar, with 6 battle stars on the Asia Pacific service medal.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2016 8:18 PM

2016-12-27T20:18:13-05:00

When I retired my platoon got me a NCO sword. All the Officers in my unit got me a engraved Zippo, and the entire unit chipped in and got me a 1911 .45.
To say it was a shock is a understatement.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 23 at 2017 3:36 PM

2017-03-23T15:36:53-04:00

While serving as a Mil-Tech in the TN Air National Guard, one of my duties was to manage the 125 Cellular devices for the Base. 75 of these assets were Blackberrys. I worked very hard to ensure everyone's device was operational with minimum down time between exchanges and upgrades. Everyone seemed satisfied with my efforts, but one day I was pulled out of an A+ training class by a member of the Security Forces in order to give a Challenge Coin they had received from White House Communications to thank me for keeping them "online". The coin was given to a member of Security Forces, who passed it on to me as a token of appreciation for my service to the Security Forces. It is the highest ranking Challenge Coin I possess and I was honored that this special token was given to me by the member who received it.

Response by Col Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 4 at 2018 7:13 PM

2018-01-04T19:13:00-05:00

When I retired from AD, my Squadron gave me an AF Sword. Very treasured gift. Hangs in my dentist next to a civil war print that depicts a great, great uncle at Gettysburg.

Response by Mike Armstrong made Apr 11 at 2018 2:11 AM

2018-04-11T02:11:49-04:00

Army patches is the most memorable military gift.

Response by CPT Robert Boshears made Oct 6 at 2018 3:00 PM

2018-10-06T15:00:34-04:00

Hand made jungle knife, ground from a 1/4 or 2 1/2 ton leaf spring, made by the indigenous (Negritos) at their Jungle Survival School in PI

Response by LTC Warren Miller made Sep 2 at 2019 1:24 PM

2019-09-02T13:24:37-04:00

I deployed a team to Belize to open the port and receive equipment for a humanitarian mission. As we were drawing our British barracks on a joint Belize/UK base, I chose the specific one to be ours, simply because it had a bench. “What’s the matter,sir, you need an old man bench?” the female senior NCO good-naturedly asked. The next morning the senior male NCO snapped a picture of me on the bench putting on my boots, sending it out to the entire team with the caption “OMB in use.” The OMB became a punchline for many jokes throughout the incredibly successful mission.

We had been back a month when I was called out in front of a formation. To show their appreciation, one of the junior NCO’s had taken a junked Singer sewing machine frame and some wood and had crafted a chair. In each wooden arm he had carefully inlaid a Belize dollar coin (another source of several good stories). And into the chair back was engraved my name...and the letters OMC...for ”Old Man Chair.” I retired a few months later and the chair still sits in my civilian office. Best group I got to work with. I’ve got coins galore and guidons and plaques hanging on my wall, but this gift came from the heart.