If you are reading this, you’ve likely been "voluntold" to be the POC for the next Hail and Farewell.
You have the venue booked. You’re collecting cash from the Wardroom, the Chief’s Mess, or the Platoon. The speeches are being written. But there is one looming question that always causes stress: What do we get them?
For decades, the default answer has been the standard wooden plaque. You know the kind—particle board, a brass plate, maybe a unit coin glued to it. It’s a nice gesture, but let’s be honest: most of them end up in a box in the garage because they just don't fit the decor of a post-command home.
Your departing Commanding Officer, Sergeant Major, or LPO gave their all to the unit. They deserve a parting gift that reflects that dedication—something they will actually want to display.
Here is your guide to upgrading the "Going Away" gift, moving from generic plaques to handcrafted heirlooms that honor their legacy at the command.
1. The "Command" Gift: The Universal Sword Display
When a unit pools its money, you have the budget to buy something truly impressive. The Officer’s Sword or NCO’s Sword/Cutlass is the ultimate symbol of their authority.
The problem? You might not know exactly which sword they own, or if they plan to upgrade it later.
This is why the Universal Sword Display is the MVP of Hail and Farewell gifts.
The Universal Fit: It securely holds virtually any regulation military sword or saber. You don't need to sneak into their office with a tape measure.
The "Executive" Look: Available in Solid Black Walnut, it looks fantastic in a home office or library. It’s a gift that says, "We respect you as a professional."
The Unit Tribute: Use the laser-engraved nameplate to immortalize their tour.
CDR James T. Kirk
Commanding Officer, USS ENTERPRISE
2022 - 2025
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See All of our Sword Display Models
2. The "Mess" Gift: The Chief’s Cutlass Display
If you are buying for a departing Chief, Senior Chief, or Master Chief, the Cutlass is the symbol of the Mess.
A dedicated Chief Cutlass Display is a profound way to say "Thank You" from the brotherhood and sisterhood of the Goat Locker. It acknowledges that while they are leaving the command, they will always be a Deckplate Leader.
(Note: If the departing Chief is retiring, this is a slam-dunk choice.)
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3. The "Operator" Gift: The Knife Block
For Marine units, Dive Lockers, or Spec Ops teams, the sword might not be the right vibe. The knife is.
A Personalized Knife Block for a Ka-Bar, Mk V Dive Knife, or SRK is a rugged, practical, and deeply symbolic gift. It sits right on the desk, serving as a daily reminder of the "sharp end" of the spear. It’s perfect for a Platoon Sergeant or a Team Leader moving on to their next assignment.
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4. Pro-Tips for the Gift POC
Organizing a unit gift can be herding cats. Here is how to make it smooth and ensure the gift is a hit:
Plan for the "PCS": Remember, the person leaving is about to move. They don't want something fragile. Our displays use a "PCS-Proof" French Cleat system that makes them easy to take down, pack flat, and set up in the new house. Mentioning this feature shows you thought ahead.
Double-Check the Spelling: It sounds obvious, but we’ve seen it happen. Get a second set of eyes on the name, rank, and dates before you submit the engraving order!
Order Early: Handcrafted items take time. Don't wait until the week of the party. Order 3-4 weeks out to ensure it arrives with plenty of time to spare.
Make Sure They Have a Sword: If they don't have a sword yet, this is a great opportunity to get them one! We recommend Marlow White for the best quality military swords.
Leave a Lasting Impression
The Hail and Farewell is the final memory a leader has of their unit. Don't let that memory be a cheap piece of plastic.
Give them something handcrafted in America, something useful, and something that honors the time you served together. When they hang that display on the wall of their next office, they will look at it and remember the team that gave it to them.
Fair Winds and Following Seas.
- The Blades Raised Team
