A View from Across the Thames: A Gift Guide for the Coast Guard Academy Cadet

October 17, 2025

For three years, my view from the Navy Submarine Base in Groton was the Thames River. And looking across that water, I had a constant, impressive view of the U.S. Coast Guard Academy. As a Navy officer, it was a familiar sight, but my connection became much more personal. My relative was a cadet, and my family had the incredible privilege of serving as a sponsor family, welcoming cadets into our home to give them a much-needed break from the rigors of academy life.

Getting to know these future leaders, I realized something powerful: every single First Class cadet, before they graduate, receives an officer's sword. That sword isn't just a uniform item; it's the culmination of Swab Summer, demanding academics, and four years of being forged into a leader. It represents their entire journey.

It was during that time that the idea for Blades Raised was born, right there in my garage in Connecticut. I saw a community of dedicated young men and women, part of a branch that, due to its size, is often underserved. I wanted to create something that specifically honored their unique achievement.

1. The Ultimate Tribute: A Place of Honor for Their Sword

That Coast Guard Officer's sword is a symbol of their commission. It will travel with them from their first cutter to their dream duty station. The most meaningful gift you can give is a worthy place to display it. To honor this achievement, we offer two distinct styles to perfectly match their taste and future home decor.

Our Dedicated Coast Guard Display: This was the very first design I created, inspired by the cadets I hosted. It's precision-crafted specifically for the Coast Guard Officer sword and finished in our signature Cognac stain for a classic, timeless look.

Our Universal Display (Three Wood Finishes): For a more modern aesthetic or to match specific furniture, our Universal style is a perfect choice. It offers a clean, minimalist design and is available in three stunning hardwood finishes: a bright, natural Maple, a deep, rich Walnut, and our classic Cognac.

(Please note: We do not sell swords. For a superior quality, regulation sword, we personally recommend trusted vendors like Marlow White.)

Perfect for: A graduating 1/c cadet, a commissioning gift from the whole family.

Explore The Dedicated Coast Guard Display

Discover Our Universal Style in Maple, Walnut, & Cognac

2. A Thank You for the "Home Away from Home"

Anyone connected to the CGA knows the incredible value of the sponsor family program. Giving a cadet a couch to crash on, a home-cooked meal, and a place to feel normal is a gift beyond measure. For a cadet's parents, finding a way to thank this second family can be tough.

Our Personalized Commissioning Plaque is the perfect solution. It allows you to frame a 5x7 photo of the newly commissioned Ensign alongside their service crest and a custom engraved message of thanks. It’s a beautiful, personal way for a cadet’s family to thank their sponsor family for years of support.

A Pro-Tip on Personalization: Focus on the Milestone. For a timeless gift, engrave the nameplate with the event itself, not their new rank. An engraving like, "Jane P. Doe, United States Coast Guard, Commissioned 17 October 2025" will be cherished for their entire career, long after they've promoted past Ensign.

Perfect for: A gift from a cadet's parents to their sponsor family.

Design a Custom Commissioning Plaque

3. A Foundation for Their Career: The Coin Display

While the sword marks the beginning, their challenge coin collection will tell the story of their entire career. From their first unit coin to coins earned from distinguished leaders, each one is a memory. A personalized coin display is a gift that grows with them, providing a place to showcase the journey of their service, coin by coin.

Perfect for: A versatile gift that honors the past and looks to the future.

Shop Our Engraved Challenge Coin Displays

Advice for Your Commissioning Weekend in New London

Celebrating your new Ensign in New London is a special experience. Here are a few tips from a former local to make the most of your visit:

Take All the Photos: The Coast Guard Academy campus is beautiful. Walk the grounds (respectfully, of course!), see the chapel, admire the USCGC Eagle if she's in port, and take as many photos as you can. It's a historic place and a perfect backdrop for family memories.
Visit the Nautilus: As a former Subase leader, I have to recommend visiting the Submarine Force Museum right across the river. You can walk through the USS Nautilus, the world's first nuclear-powered submarine. It's an incredible piece of naval history and a highlight of the area.
Get Great Seafood: You can't visit coastal New England without indulging. The New London and Mystic area has some fantastic, authentic seafood. It's the perfect way to have a celebratory family dinner.
Frame the Commission: Your Ensign will receive an official commissioning certificate. This is a very big deal. I highly recommend getting it professionally framed to preserve it for a lifetime.
On Gift Timing: The Coast Guard is an expeditionary service, and your officer will be moving—a lot. Our displays are built with durable, "PCS-proof" construction, but you might consider waiting to present a large gift until they are settled at their first "real" duty station. It makes for a wonderful "welcome home" present and saves them a headache during a hectic move.