Hobbies And Interests
Photos
Photos are the backbone of a scrapbook. Include as many as you can to make it truly memorable. Last photos taken before a deployment and the first ones once the deployment are over are particularly poignant. Include photos of commissioning ceremonies and the service member in all their different uniforms. If possible, include photos taken during deployments; use discretion when including potentially gruesome or sad photos.
Awards and Commendations
Insert the different awards and commendations the military member received while in service. From promotions to deployment letters, it all can be included. If you don't mind the book not lying flat, you can include pins and medals as well. Either slide them into a clear pouch or punch the back of the pin right through the paper.
Writing
Leave blank sections on the pages for writing or journaling. If the person making the book is a family member of the military personnel, they can write about what happened on the home front during a deployment. Have the Armed Forces member write on some of the pages, reflecting their thoughts and feelings during specific instances. Don't just write about deployments, write the reaction to a promotion, training or having to move to a new base.
Embellishments
Die cuts, stickers and paper are all embellishments that can add to the scrapbook. These should not detract from the layout, but enhance it. Die cuts of tanks, flags, awards and dog tags are available in many scrapbook shops. Stickers depicting every branch of the military can often be found. All types of military gear and insignia are made into stickers. Use flag-patterned or camouflage paper for the background of some of your layouts.