Military service members often receive awards and medals for their dedication and sacrifice. Properly displaying these medals helps preserve one's own legacy—or that of a loved one—so future generations can appreciate the stories and service behind them.
This article explores the importance of a medal display stand, the various types, and the key features.
The Importance of Displaying Military Medals
Whether earned through active duty, deployments, or peacekeeping missions, each military medal tells a personal story of dedication and service. These medals are powerful symbols of sacrifice, commitment, and honour. In most countries, military awards are presented by official defence bodies or government representatives to recognise outstanding service.
Military medals are typically grouped into a few key categories:
- Bravery medals are awarded for acts of exceptional courage.
- Long service medals, given in recognition of extended commitment and duty.
- Commemorative medals.
- Campaign-specific awards, such as the Iraq or Afghanistan medal.
Properly displaying military medals is a sign of respect for the individuals who earned them, as well as the history and traditions they represent. A well-organised and thoughtfully presented medal display stand reflects the values of integrity, service, and dedication at the heart of military life.
Types of Military Medal Display Stands
There are several ways to display military medals. Medal display stands come in various types, each suited for different settings and presentations.
Single-Medal Stands
When you want to highlight a particularly significant award, you can opt for the single medal stand.
It showcases a single full-size or miniature medal and is ideal for focused tributes, shelf displays, or personal desks.
Medal display cases
A military medal display case offers a formal, enclosed way to preserve and showcase medals and memorabilia. The cases protect the medals from dust, handling, and light while providing a lasting tribute to a Veteran’s service.
There are different types of medal display cases.
- Shadow boxes: Deep, glass-fronted frames that allow a layered, three-dimensional presentation of medals.
- Wall-mounted display frames: Slimmer than shadow boxes and designed to hold medals in official order—ideal when space is limited.
- Combination cases: Include space for medals alongside a photo, service details, or a folded flag.
- Desktop display cases: Free-standing and often angled, these are great for desks or shelves and best suited for single or smaller medal collections.
Medal Racks
A medal rack is used to display multiple medals in a row, whether for wearing on a uniform or for presentation purposes. A properly arranged rack reflects the structure and tradition of military recognition. In most countries, medals should be mounted in the official order of precedence to show appropriate respect.
For display purposes, you can fix the medals on metal, timber, or acrylic bases. A rack keeps the medals organized in the correct order of precedence. It also prevents medals from overlapping, damaging, or tangling.
Medal Hanging Racks
A medal hanging rack can be wall-mounted or free-standing. It is primarily used for displaying military medals by suspending them from their ribbons. The medals are usually exposed, offering a simple, clean, and visible tribute to service.
Wall-mounted hanging racks are horizontal bars made from wood or metal installed on a wall to hang medals by their ribbons. Free-standing holders are ideal for those who prefer not to drill on walls.
Key Features of a Military Medal Display Stand
When choosing the right medal display stand, consider not just the looks but also how well the stand protects the medals. Here are some key features to consider when choosing the ideal display stand.
- Durability and stability: The stand should support the weight of the medals without tipping. Look for durable materials like wood or metal with non-slip feet or weighted bases for balance.
- Correct display angle: Medals should be displayed clearly and neatly, ideally in individual compartments. An upright or angled design ensures they are easy to view.
- Proper medal support: Stands should include secure hooks, clips, or bars to prevent slipping or tangling. Choose materials that complement both the medals and the room décor.
Get the Right Medal Display Stand from Graveyard Designs!
While you can DIY your medal display stand, you should explore more stylish and professional options. A good stand is the best amd most respectful way to honour military service.
At Graveyard Designs, we offer various medal display stands tailored to military Veterans, family members, spouses, and memorabilia collectors. Contact us for a personalised display stand, whether you’re commemorating a loved one or showcasing your own.
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