Annapolis holds a special place in my heart, long before I ever dreamed of commissioning into the Navy myself. My great-grandfather, a proud Air Force veteran with 40 years of service, retired in Annapolis, MD. Our family trips from Ohio always meant church services in the awe-inspiring Naval Academy Chapel, solemn visits to John Paul Jones' crypt, and lively breakfasts at the Officers' Club.
I vividly remember walking the Yard, mesmerized by the history and the lore—and occasionally getting barked at to "stay off the Admiral's grass!" The sheer scale of the chapel organ, the precise flag ceremonies, the deep sense of tradition permeating every brick and cobblestone... it all left a profound impression on a young boy from Ohio. Though I always imagined following my great-grandfather into the Air Force, those experiences undeniably put me on a path to a 15-year (and counting!) Navy career.
The Navy has been an incredible adventure for my family and me. Now, as an officer myself, I want to help these future leaders launch into their own careers of service by recognizing their unique milestones—especially those hard-won symbols of leadership forged at the Academy.
1. A Place of Honor for the Officer's Sword
The moment a Midshipman receives their officer's sword is the culmination of their journey from plebe to commissioned officer. This sword isn't just a part of the uniform; it's a testament to the discipline, intellect, and leadership developed on the Yard. We offer two distinct styles to ensure this powerful symbol receives the distinguished display it deserves:
Our Dedicated Navy Officer Display: Precision-crafted for the specific dimensions of the Naval Officer's sword, finished in our classic Cognac stain. It’s a timeless piece designed to honor a timeless tradition.
Our Universal Display (Three Wood Finishes): For a versatile look to complement any future home or office, our Universal style provides a clean aesthetic. It's available in three stunning hardwood finishes: bright Maple, rich Walnut, and our signature Cognac.
Perfect for: Naval Academy Graduation, Commissioning, or a significant Christmas gift.
Explore The Dedicated Navy Officer Sword Display
Discover Our Universal Style in Maple, Walnut, & Cognac
(We don't sell the swords themselves, but you can buy them at the Midshipman shore on campus or from Marlow White).
2. Capturing the First Salute: A Personalized Commissioning Plaque
The First Salute is a moment etched forever in the memory of every new Ensign or 2nd Lieutenant. A Personalized Commissioning Plaque allows you to frame a cherished 5x7 photo from that incredible day, alongside their Navy or Marine Corps Officer Crest and a custom engraved message. It's a beautiful way for parents, grandparents, or mentors to commemorate their entry into the Fleet or the FMF.
Perfect for: Celebrating commissioning, a meaningful holiday gift for proud families.
Design a Custom Commissioning Plaque
3. The Foundation of a Career: A Personalized Coin Display
From their time as a Midshipman to future deployments, every challenge coin tells a part of their unique story of service. Our solid maple coin display turns that collection into a growing, visual history of their career. With three lines of custom engraving included, you can add their name, class year, and a personal motto, creating a deeply personal tribute to their journey.
Perfect for: Displaying coins earned as a Midshipman and throughout their commissioned career.
Shop Our Engraved Challenge Coin Displays
4. For the Future Marine Officer: The Ka-Bar Knife Display
Having served alongside the incredible men and women of the Marine Corps in the fleet, they hold a special place in my heart. For those Midshipmen destined for the Fleet Marine Force, the Ka-Bar is an undeniable icon. Our Personalized Ka-Bar Knife Display Block is handcrafted from solid cherry hardwood, providing a dignified stand for this legendary blade. It's a perfect gift to honor their dedication to "the Few, the Proud."
Perfect for: Midshipmen commissioning into the Marine Corps.
Explore The Personalized Ka-Bar Knife Display
Those echoes of the Yard, the rich history, and the profound sense of purpose I felt during those visits to Annapolis truly shaped my path. It's an honor to now help Midshipmen and their families mark these incredible leadership milestones as they embark on their own incredible adventure of service.
- The Blades Raised Team
