Fifteen years ago, I stood on the parade ground in Newport, Rhode Island, and took the oath of office. Looking out at the Narragansett Bay, with that massive bridge in the distance, I couldn't fully appreciate the history I was a part of. All I could think about was graduating and getting on the road.
That OCS commissioning was one of the biggest changes in my life's trajectory, and celebrating that hard-earned leadership milestone is profoundly important.
If your son or daughter is at OCS now, you're likely feeling a mix of immense pride and a bit of confusion. OCS is a fast-paced, 13-week crucible. Unlike the four-year academies or ROTC, it doesn't give families much time to learn the traditions. Your new Ensign is probably overwhelmed and not the best source for answers right now. As an OCS graduate and a fellow military parent, this guide is for you.
Understanding the Milestone: The First Salute
For weeks, your candidate has been pushed, tested, and molded by a team of senior enlisted leaders. The "First Salute," given by one of those leaders moments after commissioning, is a powerful, symbolic moment. It's the first time they are officially recognized as a commissioned officer. It’s a sign of respect and a welcome to the wardroom. This is why it’s a deeply held tradition to capture a photo of that first salute and display it forever.
Gift Idea #1: A Frame for the First Salute ``
Our Personalized Commissioning Plaque is designed for this exact moment. It allows you to frame a 5x7 photo of that first salute alongside the Navy Officer Crest and three lines of custom engraving. It’s a timeless way to preserve the memory of where their journey as an officer truly began.
A Pro-Tip on Personalization: Focus on the Milestone, Not the Rank. When personalizing a gift, it's tempting to put "Ensign Bob Smith" on it. But they will only be an Ensign for two years before promoting. For a more timeless tribute, focus on the event itself. Something like, "Bob Smith, United States Navy, Commissioned 17 October 2025" will be just as meaningful on their 20th anniversary of service as it is today.
Design a Custom Commissioning Plaque for Your New Ensign
The Officer's Sword: A Gift for Now or Later?
The Navy Officer's sword is an awesome and symbolic gift. However, it's not a required uniform item until an officer promotes to Lieutenant Commander (LCDR), typically around the 10-year mark. While some choose to get one early, they are not required to have one at graduation.
(Please note: We do not sell swords. For a superior quality product and excellent customer service, we personally recommend a trusted vendor like Marlow White.)
A sword display is a perfect gift, but here is a key piece of advice: consider delaying the presentation of a large gift like this. After OCS, your Ensign will be in a whirlwind of temporary duty and moving around. Durable gifts are important, and a bulky box can be a headache. Gifting the display once they settle at their first "real" duty station can be a wonderful welcome home present.
Explore Our "PCS-Proof" Navy Officer Sword Displays
Check Out the Universal Sword Display (in 3 colors)
A Career in Coins: Celebrating Their Journey
Every OCS class designs its own unique class coin. This will be the first of many. An officer can expect to collect 5-10 new coins each year, and they quickly add up. A Personalized Coin Display is a gift that grows with their career, providing a place to showcase the story of their service, from Newport to the far corners of the world.
Shop Our Engraved Challenge Coin Displays
Navigating a Career of Unknowns: Advice for Parents
Your son or daughter is entering a career of unknowns. "When do you move? Where are you going next? How long will you stay? Can we visit?" These are all really hard questions to answer in the Navy, and even after 15 years, I still have a hard time giving my own parents good answers. Patience and flexibility are the greatest gifts you can give.
This uncertainty also applies to their new friendships. OCS is a crucible that forges bonds through shared challenge, but it's not like a four-year academy. They are only together for a short time before scattering to different specialties across the globe. It's rare when I run into a friend from OCS, but it's always cool when it happens. The most meaningful, lasting relationships in their career will likely be found in their future training schools and at their first couple of duty stations.
Advice for Graduation Weekend in Newport
I highly recommend you and your family come back for a visit in the future to fully enjoy the city without the stress! For graduation weekend, if you have downtime, visit the Naval War College Museum. It’s right there on base and offers an incredible look into the history your Ensign is now a part of. And don't forget the official commissioning certificate signed by the Secretary of the Navy—it's a huge deal and absolutely worth getting professionally framed.
From my family to yours, congratulations on this incredible milestone. Welcome to the Navy family.
- The Blades Raised Team
