There are colleges, there are Service Academies, and then there are the Senior Military Colleges (SMCs).
Schools like The Citadel, VMI, Norwich, Texas A&M, and Virginia Tech offer an educational experience unlike any other. Cadets at these institutions choose the "road less traveled." They volunteer for a 24/7 military lifestyle, wearing the uniform, enduring the discipline, and living by an Honor Code, all while earning a civilian degree.
Graduating from an SMC is a badge of honor. It signifies grit, resilience, and a commitment to the ideal of the "Citizen-Soldier."
If your cadet is preparing to graduate and commission, you know how hard they have worked. But finding the right gift can be tricky. Unlike West Point or Annapolis grads who all enter the same branch, SMC graduates commission into the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and Coast Guard.
This diversity is their strength, but it makes buying a "one-size-fits-all" gift difficult. Here is your guide to honoring their unique heritage and their future service.
The One Gift That Fits Every Future: The Universal Sword Display
Your cadet might be a "Rat" or a "Knob" no more, but their journey is just beginning. Depending on their track, they might be receiving an Army Officer Saber, a Navy Officer Sword, or a Marine Corps Mameluke.
Because SMC graduates scatter into every branch of the Armed Forces, the Universal Sword Display is the ultimate gift solution.
Versatility: Its open-cradle design is engineered to securely hold any regulation U.S. military sword or saber. You don't need to worry about which branch they chose; this display fits them all.
Timeless Design: Available in Walnut, Natural Maple, or Classic Cognac, it bridges the gap between their college tradition and their professional future as an officer.
Shop the Universal Sword Display Collection
Honoring Their Specific Alma Mater
While the sword represents their future, their school represents their foundation. We have created detailed gift guides for the specific traditions of each Senior Military College. Find your school below:
The Citadel (The Military College of South Carolina)
For the cadet who survived the Fourth Class System and earned the Band of Gold. From the Ring Ceremony to the Long Gray Line, discover gifts that honor the bulldog spirit. 👉 Read The Citadel Gift Guide
Virginia Military Institute (VMI)
For the Keydet who conquered the Rat Line. VMI is a singular experience of hardship and brotherhood. Find the perfect tribute for the Citizen-Soldier leaving Lexington. 👉 Read the VMI Alumni & Grad Guide
Texas A&M Corps of Cadets
For the Fightin' Texas Aggie. The spirit of Aggieland is unique, and the Corps is the Keeper of the Spirit. Discover gifts that honor the boots, the saber, and the university. 👉 Read the Texas A&M Corps of Cadets Gift Guide
Norwich University
For the graduate of the oldest private military college and the birthplace of ROTC. Honoring the "I Will Try" motto and the diversity of service that comes from The Hill. 👉 Read the Norwich University Gift Guide
Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets
For the Hokie who lived "Ut Prosim" (That I May Serve). Bridging the gap between a massive public university and a tight-knit military corps requires a special kind of leader. 👉 Read the Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets Guide
Capturing the Commission: The First Salute
Regardless of which SMC they attended, the moment of commissioning is universal. It is the transition from Cadet to Officer.
Our Personalized Commissioning Plaque is the perfect way to freeze that moment. Frame a 5x7 photo of their First Salute or the pinning of their rank bars alongside the crest of their new service branch. It serves as a permanent reminder of where they came from and where they are going.
Design a Custom Commissioning Plaque
The Coin Collection Begins
SMC cadets often graduate with a collection of coins already started—from summer training, leadership conferences, or alumni. As they enter active duty, that collection will grow rapidly. A Solid Maple Coin Display gives them a place to organize these memories from day one.
A Tradition of Excellence
Graduates of the Senior Military Colleges have fought in every American conflict since the Mexican-American War. They carry a legacy of discipline and high standards.
Give them a gift that reflects that history.
- The Blades Raised Team
