appropriate present to new ensign

[BiblioRanger]

I have a couple of friends, where I work, that have a question as to what is a proper gift to a newly commissioned ensign.

They both asked me what would be a good gift to give to a ROTC cadet when he receives his commission.

I told my friends that I would ask.

Any suggestions?

[B 2/75]

Swimming lessons?

[BiblioRanger]

Thanks for the thought that swimming lessons would good, but I though you needed to swim if you joined the Navy.

It's a good start. I'll keep a running list and give to my friends.

[eltrane]

How about a slingshot ala Ensign Pulver?

[Cass]

New Shave Tails always get the brunt of jokes from seasoned military personnel. It is part of the toughening up process.

A good thought would be a convenient travel bag with a two suiter bag to go with it. While off season uniforms are folded away in a trunk or bag, the in-season uniforms should arrive at the new duty station pressed and ready to shine. The travel bag would be for the sundry stuff, like shave kit, shoe shine kit, and books like "10,000 jokes for newly commissioned numies".

[BiblioRanger]

New Shave Tails always get the brunt of jokes from seasoned military personnel. It is part of the toughening up process.

A good thought would be a convenient travel bag with a two suiter bag to go with it. While off season uniforms are folded away in a trunk or bag, the in-season uniforms should arrive at the new duty station pressed and ready to shine. The travel bag would be for the sundry stuff, like shave kit, shoe shine kit, and books like "10,000 jokes for newly commissioned numies".


Thanks Cass, I was beginning to think that I would only get jokes and funny suggestions. I liked the "sling shot," though. Which also reminded me of the metal balls that Bogart used in "The Caine Mutiny."

[Vincent]

I would suggest a box of grid squares. Very important for each new officer to have.

[B 2/75]

How about a copy of Janes Ships of the World?

Costs about what, 75 - 100 bucks?

[John Clark]

Their first piece

[Citizen]

An Officer's Sword.

Due to the high cost of uniforms (esp. for fresh out of college O's), and as it's not required, not many new Navy O's own one. But in a nice display case - and engraved with their name and commissioning date- that would be my choice.

[ex]

An Officer's Sword.

Due to the high cost of uniforms (esp. for fresh out of college O's), and as it's not required, not many new Navy O's own one. But in a nice display case - and engraved with their name and commissioning date- that would be my choice.
That's a great idea~~~my father gave my ex his sword when he was commissioned. Rock really treasured that sword and he used it a lot between weddings and retirements. And other O's were always borrowing it from him. Unfortunately, it was "lost" after he passed away...I really wish I could have it back for my son. :(

[SN]

Money for uniforms. The initial allowance does not come close to covering what is required.

Then give him a soap on a rope.

[Doogie320]

A dictionary.

(I'm earning points for cross threading)

WSC is right though, uniforms costs suck.

[mara]

A dictionary.

(I'm earning points for cross threading)

...

Not a Marine. And no "lesbian cheerleader" tie in. -500 for Doogie.

[Doogie320]

Don't be such a girl, Mary. Points don't matter. Like a spell check on RAT's computer.

(+2 points for this mara chick joke)

[mara]

Yep, points don't matter, just like sdiver's post count.

Rat's spelling challenges and my... "gender neutral" username are too obvious of targets. I expected better from some one who has the site's search term named after him.

-500 for originality.

:D

[SgtUSMC8541]

A book on sharks, a neon pained rubber ducky and a gold color painted compass.

[J.Meoff]

I like the sword, countered with a warm glass of "Shut the .... up!"

[ExSquid]

A plaque that says, "Shut the F*** up and let the Chief do his job!"

x/S

[Bravo_One_Three]

Training wheels.

[Winnie]

That's a great idea~~~my father gave my ex his sword when he was commissioned. Rock really treasured that sword and he used it a lot between weddings and retirements. And other O's were always borrowing it from him. Unfortunately, it was "lost" after he passed away...I really wish I could have it back for my son. :(We gave my old CO a sword as well, it's a great gift. The Company pitched in and got it put into a case, like Citizen mentioned, along with Batt/CO coins and patches. He really loved it..