Military Retirement Gifts Buying Guide

I am inching toward my pending retirement, and have had to fight this battle. I have told people repeatedly that I "don't want anything". The honest truth is, I really don't. It isn't because I am not proud of my service, it isn't because I am depressed about not making my goal, it is because I don't want to be that guy that gets the standard "here is a picture in a frame signed by everyone in the unit" gifts that people sign almost out of obligation. I don't plan on having an office job when I retire (I am looking at going into nursing, and even if I have a clinic NP job at some point, I still would rather "decorate" with items that reflect who I am as a person).

I’ve received many plaques and gifts as I left units throughout the years. But to me to recognize an entire career, the shadow box is the greatest recognition one can receive from their last unit. It tells your story, and depending on how nice it is, you will truly know if you were a leader, or a manager.