So I have been accepted into USMAPS and I am a first generation college student. So this trek was a great accomplishment not just for me, but for my parents. There is only one teacher that supported and helped me through my goals from the very beginning; My SAI instructor in my Army JROTC program at my high school. He saw potential in me, when others thought I was silly for doing all that I did from a small town where "no one ever goes out of state or does anything big". So, I would love to get a gift for him to show how much his support has meant to me and I have no idea what to get him. He was in the Army and is a retired Lieutenant Colonel. Any suggestions would be extremely appreciated?!?!?!? The only idea I have is a wooden flag art piece.
What a nice thought to recognize a mentor.
I would bet he neither requires nor desires a material gift, and ethics regulations may prevent him from accepting one. Additionally, no senior wants a junior to spend hard-earned money on a gift.
What may be memorable and appreciated:
- A letter from you describing what you have learned from him, what you admire about him, what you will carry with you into this next phase of your life. Write it from the heart, with passion and candor. That is a priceless, unique gift, one he will treasure and know that his time has been well spent.
- Keep him updated on your progress, especially that offer of appointment you are driving toward.
- Invite him, if feasible, to give you a private oath of induction on your induction day into USMA.
- Stay in touch during your USMA journey with photos and updates on cool stuff.
- Offer to come speak to and work out with your old JROTC unit when home on leave.
- Send him a graduation announcement from USMA, and a photo of you on Commissioning Day.
- Pay it forward as you mentor and support others throughout your career and life.
I have given away or thrown away boxes of “stuff” over the years. The trove of emails and letters from those I have mentored over the years - never. They are priceless to me, and in some oddly comforting way, prove that my actions, words or support made a difference for someone, that I mattered on this planet, even if all trace of me is gone in a generation or two. (Unless my posts in the Bacon Thread become fossilized.)
You could always include a Starbucks gift card as a small token gift with a letter. He’ll enjoy the coffee but treasure the letter and continued contact.
