There is a special kind of respect reserved for the officer who wears the Good Conduct Medal.
They are the Mustangs. The officers who started their careers in the enlisted ranks. They have scrubbed the decks, walked the posts, and led from the fire team level before they ever put on a gold bar. They earned their commission the "Hard Way."
Whether they are a Navy LDO, a Marine who went through ECP, or an Army OCS graduate who was once a Sergeant, Mustangs bridge the gap between the command tent and the front line. They bring a depth of experience and a "ground truth" perspective that is invaluable to the service.
If you are celebrating a Mustang—whether they are just commissioning or retiring after a career that spanned both worlds—finding a gift that honors their entire story is crucial. You aren't just honoring an officer; you are honoring a soldier, sailor, or marine who rose through the ranks.
Here is a guide to gifts that recognize the dual nature of the Mustang’s service.
1. The Sword Problem (and Solution): The Universal Display
For many Mustangs, the sword tradition is complicated.
A Marine Mustang might have earned the NCO Sword as a Corporal or Sergeant, and now carries the Mameluke as an officer.
A Navy Mustang might be a former Chief Petty Officer who owns a Cutlass, but now owns an Officer Sword.
They shouldn't have to choose which part of their service to display. They should honor both.
Our Universal Sword Display is the perfect solution for the Mustang.
Versatility: Its open cradle fits the NCO Sword, the Chief Cutlass, and the Officer Sword.
The "Double" Display: Many spouses buy two Universal Displays to mount the swords one above the other—visually telling the story of their progression from Enlisted leader to Commissioned Officer.
The Aesthetic: Available in Walnut, it provides the gravitas required for an officer's wardroom or study.
Shop the Universal Sword Display
2. The "Silver Dollar Salute": The Commissioning Plaque
For a Mustang, the "First Salute" is often the most emotional part of the commissioning ceremony. Tradition dictates they present a silver dollar to the first enlisted person who salutes them. For a Mustang, this person is often a former mentor, a drill instructor, or a peer they served with in the enlisted ranks.
Our Personalized Commissioning Plaque captures this moment perfectly. Frame a photo of that First Salute alongside their new Officer Crest and a custom engraving.
Pro-Tip on Engraving: Use the text to acknowledge their roots.
LTJG Michael Smith
Mustang - Prior Chief
Commissioned May 2025
Design a Custom Commissioning Plaque
3. Two Careers in One: The Coin Display
A Mustang’s challenge coin collection is unlike any other. It contains the gritty unit coins from their junior enlisted days mixed with the commander's coins from their officer career. It represents a network that spans the entire chain of command.
A Solid Maple Coin Display is the best way to showcase this diversity. It allows them to display their "E-3 days" coins right next to their "O-3 days" coins, painting a complete picture of a life spent in uniform.
4. The Knife on the Desk
For many prior-enlisted service members (especially Marines and Army), the tactical knife was a tool of their trade long before the sword was a symbol of their rank. A Desktop Knife Block for their Ka-Bar or service knife is a nod to where they came from—the mud, the field, and the work. It keeps them grounded even as they climb the ladder.
Honor the Hard Way
The Mustang is a unique breed. They have the polish of an officer and the grit of an enlisted warrior. Give them a gift that recognizes they didn't just walk into leadership—they climbed there, one rank at a time.
To the Mustangs: Respect.
- The Blades Raised Team
