At Kings Point, New York, stands a unique institution dedicated to "Acta Non Verba" – Deeds Not Words. The U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) produces leaders who serve our nation in a dual capacity: as licensed merchant mariners in the global economy, and as commissioned officers in every branch of the U.S. Armed Forces.
The journey of a Kings Point midshipman is unlike any other service academy. It blends rigorous academics with demanding sea year experience, forging leaders who are equally at home on a commercial vessel navigating international waters or serving in uniform during times of national crisis.
As a military family, we deeply respect this dual commitment. For the proud parents, family, and alumni looking to celebrate a USMMA graduate, finding a gift that truly honors this incredible and often unsung path is paramount. This guide focuses on meaningful ways to commemorate their hard-earned commission and the exciting, challenging career ahead.
1. The Sword: Symbol of Leadership & Dual Service
The officer's sword is a universal symbol of authority and the profound responsibility of leadership, whether at sea or in military uniform. For a USMMA graduate, their sword (or saber, depending on their commissioning branch) is a powerful emblem of their dual commitment – to the U.S. Merchant Marine and to their chosen branch of the U.S. Armed Forces. This is a symbol that deserves to be prominently displayed, telling the story of their unique path.
Our Universal Sword Display is the perfect choice to honor this versatile future. Its clean, minimalist design securely holds virtually any regulation officer's sword or saber, making it ideal for the diverse commissioning paths of Kings Point graduates. Available in three stunning hardwood finishes – a bright, natural Maple, a deep, rich Walnut, and our classic Cognac – it allows you to create a personalized tribute that matches their style.
(Please note: We do not sell swords or sabers. For a high-quality, regulation sword, we personally recommend trusted vendors like Marlow White.)
A Pro-Tip on Personalization: Focus on their USMMA identity, not the initial rank, and commissioning date. An engraving like:
Jane P. Doe, USMMA Class of 2026, Commissioned 17 June 2026
...will be a timeless commemoration of their achievement.
Discover Our Universal Sword Display in Maple, Walnut, & Cognac
2. Capturing the Milestone: The Commissioning Plaque
Graduation and commissioning at Kings Point are moments of immense pride, signifying the successful completion of a uniquely challenging program. Our Personalized Commissioning Plaque is the ideal gift to capture this defining moment. It allows you to frame a cherished 5x7 photo from their graduation or commissioning ceremony, alongside the USMMA crest or their chosen service crest, and a custom engraved message. It’s a beautiful tribute to their academic rigor and their entry into military service.
Design a Custom Commissioning Plaque for Your Kings Pointer
3. A Career of Deeds: The Challenge Coin Display
The career of a Kings Point graduate is one of action, spanning global maritime trade and various military assignments. Their challenge coin collection will become a rich, visual logbook of their journey. From coins representing their USMMA Class or Battalion to those from the commercial vessels they sail and the military units they serve with, each coin tells a part of their unique story. An officer can easily collect 5-10 new coins each year.
Our Personalized Coin Display is a fantastic way to give them a dignified home for these mementos. With three lines of custom engraving, you can add their name, USMMA class year, and their chosen branch of service, creating a lasting tribute to their "Deeds Not Words."
Shop Our Engraved Challenge Coin Displays
4. Frame the Oath: Their Commissioning Certificate
Don't overlook this crucial document! When your Midshipman commissions, they will receive an official signed certificate. This federal document is the tangible proof of their oath and their entry into the commissioned ranks. It is immensely significant and absolutely worth getting professionally framed to preserve and proudly display for a lifetime.
Graduating from the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy is a testament to extraordinary dedication and a profound commitment to service. From our military family to yours, congratulations on your Kings Pointer's incredible achievement. Acta Non Verba!
- The Blades Raised Team
