Staff Sergeant, USMC
At WoodyThings.com, we take great pride in crafting commemorative pieces that honor the dedicated service of our heroes. Today, we’re thrilled to share one of our most recent projects: a custom-ordered Retirement Chest designed for a distinguished Staff Sergeant of the United States Marine Corps.
A Symbol of Honor
This special chest measures 15” x 24” and is stained in a rich Jacobean dark stain, reflecting both elegance and strength. The exterior of the chest is personalized with the Staff Sergeant’s rank, name, and dates of service, serving as a lasting tribute to their career in the Marine Corps.
To complement the chest’s refined style, we used gold hinges and latches. The manila rope carrying handles not only add a touch of maritime tradition but also pay homage to the Marine Corps’ naval history.
Inside the Chest: A Tribute to a Marine’s Journey
Opening the chest reveals a dark-stained interior that seamlessly matches the exterior. The lid features a striking display with an American Flag and a Marine Corps Flag embedded inside, creating a unique shadowbox effect. Within this space, we mounted the Staff Sergeant’s rank insignias, known as chevrons, which climb up on either side and converge with the iconic Eagle Globe and Anchor (EGA) at the top center.
Beneath the EGA, we showcased two Dress Blues Chevrons alongside the Service member’s Military Medals. The shadowbox also includes personalized Ribbons and Shooting Badges, arranged just as they would appear on a uniform.
Adding a heartfelt touch, we included a poem titled “Ask Me What I Was,” which reads:
ASK ME WHAT I WAS
I’ll reply with what I’ve done.
Those things others would not do, I did;
Those rivers others would not swim, I swam;
Those hills others would not climb, I conquered;
Those bridges others would not cross, I crossed;
I have celebrated. I have mourned.
I have smiled and I have frowned.
I have seen death and felt its warm breath.
It did not faze me, for I was different.
I was a warrior.
You ask me what I was?
It was my destiny. Until my last breath.
To be a United States Marine.
And my spirit shall live forever.
SEMPER FIDELIS
For I was, I am, and I shall forever be a
UNITED STATES MARINE
A Versatile Gift
This Care Package Retirement Chest is a perfect standalone tribute, or it can be filled with additional personalized gifts for the recipient. Consider including unit patches, challenge coins, a folded flag, a favorite book, a fine bottle of something special, or even a congratulatory cigar.
What would you include in yours?
At WoodyThings.com, we’re honored to craft these meaningful keepsakes that celebrate the dedication and service of our nation’s finest. To order your own custom care package chest or to learn more about our commemorative items, visit WoodyThings.com or contact us directly.
We look forward to helping you create a lasting tribute that reflects the true spirit of service.