Military medals are a recognition of the brave accomplishments of soldiers. They serve to distinguish the person and honor their service. They also help to indicate the rank and authority they have taken years to build. Many have such medals and often do not think to display them when out of uniform. Shadow boxes are a good way to show off these awards and keep an eye on their condition. They are best preserved this way and can last for decades in pristine condition when correctly stored. Here is how to take care of these enviable accolades.
- Get a shadow box that can accommodate all the military plates and medals. Having everything in one case can make it easier to care for them. Alternatively, have several boxes to display different accolades and items like military uniforms. This may be better where the veteran does not have adequate wall space to accommodate a large box. You go as big or small as you want as these boxes are easily customizable.
- Opt for a choice of a shadow box that has an adhesive-backed hook and loop tape.
- Lay the shadow box on a level surface and open it. The back of the case should have a material that easily allows for the hooking of the medals. Ensure that you start from the top with medals of the highest honor. Medals will come first, then ribbons and badges. Using this precedence demonstrates respect for the services. A veteran may however opt to display his or her medals in whatever way they see fit.
- You can further support and secure the awards by using some double-sided tape on the back of each one to better hold them in place.
- Ensure that each medal has enough space on its own. They should not be piled or overlap each other.
- Where you have some empty space in the shadow box, you can also add other mementos like photographs, flags, and more.
- Whenever you are handling military medals, be sure to use gloves. Use mild soap and water for cleaning and dry off with a soft micro-fiber cloth. Avoid the use of any harsh chemicals in cleaning.
- Try to keep the shadow box away from direct sunlight exposure. This can cause any fabric to start fading.
- Place the shadow box in a temperature-regulated space. Too much fluctuation or excessive exposure to humidity can cause the medals and the box to become tarnished.