This week, I had the honor of working on a particularly meaningful project—engraving a memorial flag case for a veteran's family. Projects like these remind me why I love what I do and the lasting impact that hand engraving can have.
The Project: A Tribute to Gilbert Orman Stephens
The family commissioned a custom engraved flag case to honor Gilbert Orman Stephens, a veteran who served our country with distinction. The wooden flag case required several engraved elements to create a fitting memorial:
The Presidential Seal: The centerpiece of the design featured the detailed presidential seal, complete with the eagle, shield, and surrounding stars. Engraving this level of intricate detail required careful attention to each element—from the eagle's feathers to the precise positioning of the stars in the circular border.
Memorial Inscription: Below the seal, I engraved "In Loving Memory Of" followed by the veteran's name, creating a personal and respectful tribute.
Service Details: The engraving included his military service information, honoring his dedication as a soldier, father, grandfather, son, and friend, with dates spanning from May 17, 1920 to August 7, 1998.
The Technical Challenge
Working on memorial pieces requires a different level of precision and care. The presidential seal alone presented numerous technical challenges:
Fine Detail Work: Each star in the border ring had to be perfectly formed and evenly spaced
Depth Consistency: Maintaining consistent engraving depth across the entire design to ensure readability and visual balance
Proportional Accuracy: Ensuring the seal maintained its proper proportions while fitting within the available space on the flag case
The calligraphy portions required careful attention to letterform consistency and spacing, ensuring the text was both beautiful and dignified.
Working with Families
Memorial projects carry a weight that goes beyond typical engraving work. Families trust you with preserving the memory of someone they loved, and that responsibility is something I never take lightly. Every stroke of the engraving tool becomes part of a lasting tribute that will be cherished for generations.
The family was able to see the work in progress, which allowed for adjustments and ensured the final piece met their vision for honoring their loved one's service and memory.
The Importance of Memorial Engraving
Projects like this flag case serve as permanent reminders of service and sacrifice. Unlike printed or temporary memorials, hand engraving creates something that will last as long as the material itself. The tactile nature of engraved text and images adds a level of permanence and respect that feels appropriate for honoring veterans and loved ones.
Reflection
Completing this memorial flag case was both challenging and deeply rewarding. It's projects like these that remind me why precision, patience, and respect are so crucial in this work. The family now has a beautiful, permanent tribute to Gilbert Orman Stephens that honors his service and preserves his memory in a tangible way.
Working on veteran memorials is always an honor, and I'm grateful to families who trust me with creating these lasting tributes to their loved ones who served our country.