The Story Of The Forge Candle

The idea of the Forge candle and lantern is recently borrowed from the USMC (but they borrowed the idea from other cultures).

Historically a candle was placed in the window of the home to light the way home for soldiers.

It’s a tradition that has roots in many cultures, and in our country as far back as The War of Independence. Many colonial families placed a candle in the window for their loved ones return. Communication was unreliable at best. Many times, it was unknown a loved one’s whereabouts, much less when and if they would be returning home.  The candle provided a beacon (especially during bad weather).

There was also the sentiment that the candle’s flame represented the sentiment that the person was loved, missed, and held in the family’s thoughts and prayers. Many Revolutionary War families would keep a candle lit in the window every night that their soldier was gone. Families who lost their loved ones kept the light lit every night in remembrance of their loved one who would never be returning home.

Today, Army families and loved ones use it as our Trainees go off to The Forge, and keep it lit while they are in this final test to certify their journey and start their career as soldiers.

Of course, lighting the candle/lantern does not in reality help them get through the final test. But it does remind us at home to pray, keep them in our thoughts, and reminds us how long this test actually is.

Modern day candles and lanterns are remembrance tools for the families at home, not gifts for trainees.

Whether you create your own candle/lantern or purchase a custom one already created for you, enjoy your candle/item and know that your trainee's Army career is about to begin!