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Christmas Adoption: Gift Box Items from the Defence Catering Group

Object details

The Christmas Gift Box from the Defence Catering Group, part of which is stored in our Reserve Collection at Stafford, was sent to RAF personnel serving in Iraq in 2004. This RAF tradition began in 1914 when Princess Mary supported the creation of a fund to pay for a Christmas Gift Box to be sent to every serving member of the UK Armed Forces. Originally made of brass, the box would have included smoking materials, chocolate and a photograph of the Princess.

Although the contents no longer include smoking materials, the Museum’s 2004 Christmas Gift Box contained food, toiletry and novelty items, echoing the sentiments behind the 1914 one, helping to maintain morale for those deployed away from home at Christmas.

Three of the items which are on display at Cosford and are available to adopt are: a Christmas card featuring the message ‘Fill your boots this Christmas’, a flashing red nose and a red rubber ball.

There were several other items inside this box including a face flannel, Father Christmas hat, magnetic pocket chess set, quick shot camera, pocket torch, handwarmer gel, bottle of shower gel, key ring spice dispenser, packet of butterscotch sweets, packet of mulling spices, packet of Worcestershire sauce, miniature Christmas cake, hot pepper sauce, apricot and almond bar, and a souvenir London bottle opener.

Adopting the Christmas Gift Box package is a timely reminder of the Christmases that many families have spent apart, and the importance bringing a touch of home and Christmas joy to the ones you love, where ever they may be.

Your adoption details

By adopting one of our iconic items you are playing a crucial role in helping us share the greatest stories ever told.

Each adoptee will receive a digital image of their adoption along with a certificate. Recognition of the adoption, including your name and an optional dedication message, will be listed on Collections Online. You will also receive tailored communication throughout the year about your adoption! Click here to see an example of the certificate and digital image received with your adoption.

Once you have completed your adoption, your digital certificate and image will be emailed to you, please allow up to five working days.  If you have made the adoption as a gift, details of the gift will be taken after purchase.  We will send the certificate and image out to you, with the gift recipient’s name included, which you can then give as a present.

Adoptions last 12 months from the purchase date.  The Museum may remove items from display temporarily or permanently for essential operational or conservation reasons.  Please check on our website for current location if you are travelling to see your object.

If you would like to adopt an object in the Standard tier exclusively, please do email us.