7 Creative Ways To Display Military Awards

Displaying military awards can be a meaningful way to honor your service and celebrate your accomplishments. Whether you are a veteran or currently serving, showcasing your medals and ribbons can be a source of pride and a wonderful way to share your story. Here are seven creative ways to display military awards that not only add decor to your space but also serve as a conversation starter.

1. Shadow Boxes: A Personal Touch ✨

Shadow boxes are a popular way to display military awards, providing depth and character to your collection. You can use a wooden shadow box to create a visually appealing display with various elements, such as:

• Medals: Arrange them in a way that highlights their significance.
• Ribbons: Display accompanying ribbons, alongside any certificates or photographs.
• Personal Items: Incorporate personal memorabilia, such as your dog tags or a photo from your time in service.

To make your shadow box even more special, consider painting the interior in colors that reflect your branch of service or using fabric that represents your unit.

2. Wall-Mounted Displays

For those who prefer a more minimalist approach, wall-mounted displays can be an elegant solution. Here are a couple of ideas:

• Floating Frames: Use floating frames to showcase your medals. These frames can create an appealing visual effect by allowing light to filter through.
• Display Shelves: Install small shelves where you can place your medals along with other decorative items like military-themed books or flags.

When arranging your wall display, consider balance and symmetry for an aesthetically pleasing look.

3. Awards Quilt or Blanket 🎖️

A unique way to showcase your military awards is by creating a quilt or blanket that features the colors and symbols from your service. You can include:

• Patches: Sew on your military unit patches, representing different phases of your service.
• Fabric Squares: Use fabric squares in colors that symbolize your achievements or branches.

This not only acts as a decorative piece in your living space but also serves as a warm reminder of your service.

4. Display Cases with Lighting

Consider using a display case with built-in lighting to highlight your military awards beautifully. Glass display cases keep dust away while allowing the light to accentuate the medals and ribbons. Here's how to make your case stand out:

• Lighting: Use LED lights to spotlight your awards, which can bring out their colors and details.
• Information Plaques: Add small plaques that explain the significance of each award, creating an educational display.

This type of setup works well for more formal environments, such as offices or living rooms.

5. Rotating Award Plaques

If you have multiple awards and want to show them off without overcrowding your space, a rotating display stand can be a fantastic choice. You can create a rotating awards plaque using:

• A Lazy Susan Base: This allows for easy access and visibility from all angles.
• Customized Plaques: Attach your awards on each side of the stand for a 360-degree showcase.

This setup not only saves space but also makes it easy to change out awards whenever you want!

6. DIY Medal Hanger

For a more casual, yet chic display, consider creating a DIY medal hanger. These can be made using simple materials, allowing for personalization:

• Wooden Planks: Stain or paint them in your favorite colors.
• Hooks: Attach hooks to hang your medals, and add vinyl lettering to label them, such as "Service Medals" or "Honor Awards."

This allows you to change your display frequently, and it's an eye-catching way to show off your accomplishments.

7. Use of Technology: Digital Frames 📱

For a modern twist, consider using digital photo frames to display images of your military awards along with photos from your service. You can:

• Create Slideshows: Combine images of medals with pictures of significant events during your service.
• Add Personal Narratives: Include small text blurbs about each award or the corresponding experience.

This method not only modernizes your display but also adds an interactive element to it.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While displaying military awards, keep in mind some common mistakes that can detract from the overall effect:

• Overcrowding: Ensure that you don’t overcrowd your display. Leave space for each award to shine.
• Incorrect Orientation: Always ensure medals and ribbons are displayed correctly to show their significance properly.
• Neglecting Lighting: Good lighting can enhance the visibility of your display. Ensure that your display is well-lit, either naturally or artificially.

Troubleshooting Tips

In case you encounter issues with your display setup, here are some troubleshooting tips:

• Medals Falling Off: Use strong adhesive or securely fasten them in your shadow box or display case to prevent them from falling.
• Dust Accumulation: Regularly clean your display case or shadow box to prevent dust buildup. A microfiber cloth can work wonders!
• Discoloration of Ribbons: Keep your awards away from direct sunlight to prevent fading and discoloration.

<div class="faq-section"> <div class="faq-container"> <h2>Frequently Asked Questions</h2> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What is the best material for a shadow box?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Wood and acrylic are popular choices due to their durability and aesthetic appeal. Ensure that the materials used do not react negatively with the medals.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>How can I clean my medals before displaying them?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Use a soft cloth to gently wipe your medals. For more thorough cleaning, consult a preservation guide suitable for the specific material of your medals.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Can I create a digital display of my military awards?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Absolutely! A digital frame allows you to rotate through images of your awards and share the stories behind them.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>How do I ensure my display is safe from damage?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Using display cases with UV protection and keeping your displays out of high-traffic areas will help protect them from accidental damage.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div>

Displaying your military awards is not only about aesthetics but also about honoring your service and sharing your journey with others. Whether you choose a shadow box, wall mount, or even a digital display, make it personal and reflective of your experience. Remember to showcase your accomplishments in a way that feels right to you!

<p class="pro-note">🎖️Pro Tip: Regularly update your displays to keep them fresh and to include new achievements over time.</p>