Toys for troops - Military Technology, military gear, military gadgets - Military Times

COURTESY OF THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES Now you can own a museum-quality reproduction of one of the millions of images in the collection of the National Archives, like the iconic flag-raising on Iwo Jima by photographer Joe Rosenthal. The National Archives will professionally print and ship the ready-to-hang photo in about three weeks. If you’re a military buff, it’s the perfect (and cheapest) way to own a piece of history. Cost: Varies, but averages about $20 per print www.archives.gov/research/formats/photos.html, then click on “How to obtain copies.”

We can’t decide if this little gem is for your kid or for you. It’s the Desktop Grenade Lamp, and it’s the only camouflage item on our list this year. Why? Because it’s so darn cool. We’ll give you three guesses how to turn the thing on. Cost: $139 www.SpellboundStatues.com

“What is your major malfunction?!” Based on R. Lee Ermey — the former Marine gunnery sergeant made famous by his unforgettable role in “Full Metal Jacket" — and decked out in Marine gear, this figure is NOT a toy. It looks like a toy, sure, but activate the sound chip, and you’ll be treated to a minute-long rant of F-bombs. Keep this one out of reach — and earshot — of children. Cost: $99.99 www.toywiz.com/saltyermey.html

COURTESY OF VELASCO ENTERPRISES Whether you were there — or you’ve been hearing stories from your grandfather who was there — a vintage aircraft nose panel is a great way to relive the battles of World War II. Velasco Enterprises has combed through historical records and photos to painstakingly recreate nose panels of dozens of fighter aircraft. The result is a unique work of art worthy of any man cave. For an even more intense statement, they also offer full-size B-24J hull panels (for a mere $12,000). Cost: About $225 for an 18-by-28-inch panel www.fightingcolors.com

COURTESY OF SONY It’s the only notable gaming console launch of the season, so it will probably be what all the kids are talking about. It’s also the most likely toy on our list to end up in your hands, too. The PSPgo comes with a 16-gig hard drive, Bluetooth and an impressively clear 3.8-inch LCD screen. Watch movies, TV shows or play games on the go. Cost: $250 www.playstation.com