Coming home from deployment is a momentous occasion. It is the end of one chapter and the beginning of another, not just for the person returning but for their family, friends, and loved ones. Celebrating this monumental event appropriately is a way to recognize their sacrifices and commitment. The emotional toll of a deployment is heavy, and it is essential to make the return special. Here are 16 unique and heartwarming ideas to welcome your hero home.
1. Homecoming Surprise Party
Throw a surprise homecoming party! Bring together family and close friends. Decorate the place with patriotic themes, balloons, and welcome banners. The element of surprise will add an extra touch of joy to their return.
2. Personalized Gifts
Tailor-made presents, like engraved jewelry or customized home items with special messages, are a touching way to convey your happiness at their return. It's the thought that counts, and the personal touch makes it all the more special.
3. Holme and Hadfield Coin Deck
Military personnel often receive challenge coins during their service as a symbol of camaraderie and achievement. The Holme & Hadfield Coin Deck is the perfect gift to showcase these tokens of honor. This coin display case is not just functional but is also a stylish way to display their prized collection. Every time they see their military challenge coin holder, they will be reminded of the significance behind each coin and the people who supported them.
4. Plan a Vacation or Staycation
After spending months away, nothing feels better than a relaxing break. Depending on your loved one's preference, plan a quiet getaway to a serene location or simply enjoy a staycation in your hometown, exploring local attractions and eateries.
5. Memory Book
Create a scrapbook or memory book detailing the days they were away. Include photographs, letters, and notes exchanged during the deployment. This heartfelt gesture will offer them a chance to catch up on what they might have missed.
6. Cook Their Favorite Meal
Sometimes, the way to a person's heart is through their stomach. Welcome them with a hearty meal made of their favorite dishes. A home-cooked meal is love made visible (and edible).
7. Spa Day or Relaxation Package
Deployments are stressful. Why not treat your loved one to a day of pampering? Book a spa package or create a DIY spa day at home, helping them relax and rejuvenate.
8. Host a Movie Night
Plan a movie marathon of their favorite films or new releases they missed during deployment. Create a cozy environment with popcorn, blankets, and dim lighting for the perfect cinema experience.
9. Holme and Hadfield Nightstand Organizer
In addition to the coin deck, consider a display for other achievements. Holme and Hadfield also offer exceptional display solutions that act as a tribute to their service, ensuring their medals, and other keepsakes have a dedicated space, just like the coin display case for their challenge coins.
10. Pen a Letter or Poem
Express your feelings, gratitude, and pride in words. Writing a heartfelt letter or poem can be a keepsake they treasure forever. The words you pen will serve as a constant reminder of the love and support they have.
11. Plant a Return Tree
Symbolize their return by planting a tree in your yard. As the tree grows, it will serve as a constant reminder of the strength and growth of your relationship during and after the deployment.
12. Recreate Their First Date
Reminisce and rekindle your bond by recreating your first date or another special memory you both cherish. It's a lovely way to reconnect and relive beautiful moments from your past.
13. Subscription to a Hobby Magazine or Service
Was there a hobby they missed while deployed, or perhaps a new one they've developed an interest in? Whether it's photography, woodworking, or traveling, a subscription to a related magazine or service can reignite their passion.
14. Personalized Welcome Home Decor
Deck the halls with personalized banners, pillows, and mugs bearing the words “Welcome Home” alongside their name or photo. This personalized touch will make their return even more special.
15. Enroll Them in a Workshop or Class
Is there something they've always wanted to learn or explore? Perhaps it's pottery, photography, or a musical instrument. Enrolling them in a local workshop or class could be the perfect welcome-back gift, giving them something to look forward to.
16. A Day of 'Firsts'
Many veterans complain they miss out on a lot of firsts while they’re away, so we love the idea of experiencing a new first with them. Dedicate a day to doing things neither of you have experienced yet. It could be trying a new restaurant, visiting a local museum, or even something adventurous like zip-lining or scuba diving. The excitement of new experiences will add joy to their homecoming.
While the homecoming of a deployed loved one is a joyous occasion, it's essential to remember that they've been through a unique set of experiences that might need time and understanding. Coming home after a deployment is a bittersweet experience. It’s filled with the joy of reunion and the emotions of the time spent apart. While no gesture can fully convey our gratitude for their service and sacrifice, these ideas are a step in the right direction. And with the Holme & Hadfield Coin Deck as the centerpiece, their new military challenge coin holder becomes a symbolic representation of honor, service, and love.
