Words by Wes O’Donnell, Managing Editor, inmilitary.com/inmilitary.
Wes is a highly sought after presenter who has recently spoken at TEDx on Data Visualization and is speaking at the US Air Force Academy on Leadership. Most importantly, Wes is a veteran and believes that when all 21.8 million of us are united, we can change the world. Connect with Wes on LinkedIn.
Here we are again… Another year in the books, (almost). We still have one big holiday on the horizon before we celebrate the new year, and, let’s face it: Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa or however you choose to make merry, is the season for giving (and receiving).
But what do you get the veteran who already has everything? Got your six… Check out my picks for the top ten gifts for military veterans 2015. Ready? Send it!
10. Bullet Bottle Opener
Just plain cool. For those of us that partake of our favorite frosty beverage (enjoyed responsibly, of course), the Bullet Bottle Opener is 100% made and sourced in the USA. These bottle openers are made from Once-Fired Military Grade .50 Caliber® brass casing and demilitarized projectile. Brass for this product is obtained from government auctions through the sale of casings collected from military training ranges. They are then polished and powder coated for a durable finish. They are also able to be engraved to add a personal touch to your gift! What better way to say “Thank you for my freedom” than an engraved piece of military grade hardware? http://www.bullets2bandages.org/bullet-bottle-openers/
9. 550 Cord Bracelets
Veterans are the “Macgyvers” of our society. And we’re acutely aware of the utility of 550 cord when in the field. Need boot laces? 550 cord. Fishing line? 550 cord. Creating a snare? 550 cord… See a pattern? Survival Straps® manufactures Authentic paracord Survival Bracelets™ and accessories that are highly customizable. Survival Bracelets™ are worn around the world as a personalized fashion statement, but also as a symbol of strength, honor, and the belief in American production. All of their products are made in America from super strong, AUTHENTIC, 550# military spec paracord which gives them a secondary purpose. In an emergency situation, you can unravel the bracelet to deploy the paracord to help get you out of a jam. https://www.survivalstraps.com/pages/what-can-survival-straps-gear-do
8. A custom tee from Grunt Style
Grunt Style is a group of 91 highly motivated American veterans and patriots who design and manufacture a unique style of gear. They carry a wide range of apparel as well as other gear that your veteran will love. All products are guaranteed for life or they buy you a beer. How cool is that? Full disclosure, fully half of my wardrobe is from GruntStyle. Love it! http://www.gruntstyle.com/
7. Monopoly Military Edition
Finally! I can stop getting stuck with the top hat! You too can feel like the Secretary of Defense with the military versions of this beloved classic that’s been ripping families apart for 82 years! And let’s face it, video games are so last decade. This is for those veteran board game fanatics in your life. Customized game board features the most essential U.S. military-related assets in history. Familiar MONOPOLY game play and collectible pewter tokens. There is a monopoly edition for every service branch! http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_1?url=search-alias%3Dtoys-and-games&field-keywords=military+monopoly
6. Tactical Holiday Stocking
It’s got integrated MOLLE straps on the outside. Enough said! Also included, a swivel carabiner on the top and at the ankle, two quick-release clips on the toe, a hook-and-loop panel near the top, a bi-directional side zipper, a top handle, and a small, external pouch for additional coal storage (for those folks who have been extra bad – you know who you are). And, of course, it’s black. https://www.thinkgeek.com/product/1687/?srp=8
Tactical Santa will be pleased…
5. The gift of chocolate
Okay, I’m getting hungry. Fun and affordable chocolate gifts to delight your active or retired military personnel. Choose from Chocolate Bullets in the Military Style Tin, Chocolate Hand Gun or even a Chocolate Grenade! Come on… Everybody loves chocolate; except for this one guy I knew in high school… Weirdo. http://www.chocolateammo.com/military-chocolate-novelty-products.html
4. Hand-crafted Military Keepsake Box
The perfect custom military gift for our US Military Service Men & Women that are hand made in America. Personal and customized military gift boxes will allow your loved one to hold on to their service forever. RelicWood.com makes footlockers, shadow boxes & ammo boxes. Members from any branch of the military can store their uniforms, name tags, rank insignia, flags or ribbons in these decorative and customized boxes. This way their hard work will not just be hidden in a storage room for decades. Truly, something your veteran can pass down the family line. http://www.relicwood.com/product-category/us-military-gifts/
3. Military “Woobie Blankets”
Often referred to in the military as a “woobie blanket” because of its practicality to have around at all times. What military or former military member would not want their very own “woobie”! The poncho liner has been a staple of deployed life since it was first introduced in Vietnam. I still own one, and take it everywhere… Seriously. It’s my prized possession. http://blackstarsurplus.com/Inventory/field-gear/usmc-poncho-liner-marpat/
2. Hand-crafted Wooden American Flag
Reclaimed and repurposed wood is incorporated into the hand-crafted designs. Every item from D&L Woodworking is handmade and everything can be custom made to fit your needs. Perfect for any veteran’s home. If I don’t get one of these for Christmas, (ahem… hint, hint), I’m buying one for myself… https://www.etsy.com/shop/DandLwoodworking?section_id=17822200&ref=shopsection_leftnav_3
1. Battle Mug
Although rather pricey, ($189) this mug is the ULTIMATE veteran gift! Built to military specifications, Battle Mug features a M1913 rail interface system which allows the operator to mount a standard issue M4 carry handle, tactical light, laser device, holographic sight (we call them beer goggles) or even a bayonet for close quarters, high risk operations. Grab you beverage of choice and get tactical! http://shop.battlemug.com/main.sc
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