What do you think of displaying military awards at work or on holidays?

[Kenyth]

Lately, I have a much nicer work space and have begun to decorate it. First I started with family photo's, diplomas, kids gifts, etc. Then, since I had a lot of room, I decided to dig out all the plaques, medals, mementos, coins, awards, and certificates I got during my military service. There are quite a few since I was in for nine years total, served in the post color guard at Redstone Arsenal for two years of it, and served in Desert Shield/Storm as an Artilleryman in the Fire Direction Center. My wife seems somewhat apalled by all this. She is under the impression that "Only old men display veteran stuff." and that it looks boastful.

What is everyone's opinion on this? What about displaying your medals on holidays such as Veterans day, the fourth, and Memorial day? The VA is sending out pamphlets trying to get veterans to do this.

I also wonder why my wife seems slightly uncomfortable with this.

[uptown_cigar]

I say PUT THEM UP! You served our country and were awarded medals for it. I'm sure those medals are well-earned and should be displayed wherever possible.

[ashauler]

I don't think there is a thing wrong with it. Display them with pride!! I served in the Navy for several years and have the attendant ribbons, etc.....I keep them in my home office, but they are on display.

My office at work has photo's of my family on the walls, and the top of the credenza behind my desk is covered with cigar boxes and fake greenery.

[WhiteWidow]

my bad

[WhiteWidow]

I think its a cool idea. I always thought shadowboxes looked pretty kick ass, and they make a nice display that would certainly be appropriate for home or office. I imagine your wife's problem is that she thinks it looks tacky, a shadowbox might be a solution.

A couple of years ago I gave my dad a flagpole for his birthday, I wish I hadn't because he puts all sorts of weird shit on it like Bonnie Blue and "Club Gitmo" flags and I'm sure everyone in the neighborhood thinks they are a bunch of weirdos.

[logan37]

I don't think there is anything wrong with being proud of your achievements and displaying them.

[Eville]

You earned them. There is absolutely nothing wrong with showing them off.

[Shelby07]

I think it's a great idea. I certainly appreciate your service. It sounds like its something you want to do, and you should be very proud.

Talk to your wife and see if/why she is uncomfortable.