USMC PurpleHeart Pen for my Dad

[Neededwill]

So my dad's birthday is coming up so I decided to venture into a new area for me of water-slide decals. Also this is my 3rd pen using the CA finish. Well pen turning is new to me first of all, just started in the beginning of Feb 2013 after getting a lathe and accessories.

My dad did 2 tours in Viet Nam from 1968 thru 1972 and was wounded and received a Purple Heart for his efforts when he was wounded. So I thought that is would be awesome to create a display pen and box to go along with his shadow box that he created for all his medals and from the USMC.

This is my first attempt but it came out nice I believe. It is purple heart wood with a USMC logo decal on the mid section. Instead of putting a center band on the pen I decided to create a look of one with a USMC logo decal.

I am purchasing a case to show the pen off and will be putting a decal with Viet Nam and the dates of each tour on the sides of the case.

So let me know what yall think, I know the decal is hard to see so I might have to change to a lighter wood but I wanted to make a statement of the Purple Heart.

 

[Rodnall]

I'm sure he will be proud of it. Like has been said before, use a white background to show the pen better.

 

[Neededwill]

Here are closeups

 

[MDEdwards]

Do convince him that the pen belongs in his pocket!

 

[OLDMAN5050]

Well done...........

 

[ironman123]

That pen will be treasured by your Father. It represents personal things to him as well as your love and appreciation for his commitment and a great change in our nation.

Your pen is very nice looking in my book.

Ray

 

[gbpens]

You've done him proud. You might consider finding a Vietnam campaign ribbon for the box. I recall it was yellow and red.

 

[Neededwill]

Thanks all for the support and help. Yes I have the ribbon for the campaign, I will print out a couple types and see what looks best and fits with the look.

 

[t001xa22]

If you would PM me, I think I have something that your dad would like to add to his collection. My dad was a proud jarhead from WWII, as well as my brother during the Nam era. I know they would both approve of my idea for your dad. Like they always say: Semper Fi.

 

[plano_harry]

Nice work Randall! That is a very special pen. Welcome to IAP.

Harry

 

[Neededwill]

Thanks Harry, it been a joy here!

 

[yorkie]

Very special indeed.

Please thank your Father for his service, and pass along our unending gratitude and respect.

 

[skiprat]

Great sentiment Randall !! I'm sure your dad will love it.

 

[Jim15]

I'm sure he will love it. Tell him thank you.

 

[joek30296]

Great job Randall. I know he'll be proud to show it off. Thank him for his service!

joe

 

[Neededwill]

Thanks to everyone and I will pass on the thanks to my dad. I have made a couple pens to give to the vets at the VA hospital that I go to since I am a vet also. But with the likes of this one I might do some in a lighter wood and put a USMC or Army decal on them and give them out instead of just the pen as I have. Just wish I had more time to make more pens but that is why its a hobby!

 

[Dick Mahany]

Nice job. I'm sure your dad will love this as it is so personal on a number of levels. I like it.

I made a US Navy Veteran pen for my Dad recently, but he's afraid to actually use it and just keeps it in the open flock-lined case to look at. Tell him it was meant to be used.

 

[Pete Strait]

Looks Great! If I may ask where is your source for this size of decal?
Again great stuff!

Pete

 

[Neededwill]

Pete, I made the decals myself using water-slide paper and my inkjet printer. It is a pretty simple process. I have made a couple for other pens that I am making, like putting family crest or coat of arms on pens for family. You can check out decalpaper.com and there are tutiorials on youtube also. Allows for a little different approach when doing pens. Also I will be doing one with engraving using sun light, keeps it natural.

 

[Pete Strait]

NEEDEDWILL:

Thanks for the info. I'm most definitaly will give it a try. I appreciate your
sharing.

Pete

 

[joefyffe]

Randy: You did it, you made my eyes leak! You are a very thoughtful son. DON'T change a thing! The Purple Heart wood base is significant and the subtle approach with the insignia is very nicely done. Many times, what seems to be hidden draws the most curiosity and attention. And, as with the other members who commented, my wife and I send our THANKS to your father (and you) for your service to this great nation. :star::star: :highfive:

 

[Neededwill]

Joel, thank you very much! I just hopes he uses it and just display it!

 

[Scrollworks]

Very well done. I'm sure your dad will appreciate the pen.

 

[Mr Vic]

Great looking pen Randell....If you want the Logo to stand out more on a dark wood try white decal paper. You have to be a bit more exact when cutting it out but it prevents the wood color from showing through..