I've gotten what's called an awards box, it's a solid cedar box meant to hold military awards and rank insignia and various other keepsakes. I really want to turn this into a humidor. Because it is large enough to hold approximately 50 sticks. what do I need to do to accomplish this?

Do a search and try to find more info about Spanish Cedar. Compare it to what your box is made of. That is the type of cedar you want. The wrong wood will ruin the cigars.

Yeah, sorry man, that box probably is American cedar or what have you and it's not good for humidors at all. Also, there are a few other problems with your idea. First, it probably doesn't have a tight seal and that's really something you need. It's not good to have a 100% air tight seal, but that box you have probably wont hold the humidity. Maybe someone can give you advice on how to make it work.

It sucks because I have so many boxes and chests and things that could be great humidors, but I run into problems like the ones I just mentioned.

American cedar wont ruin your cigars it just may impart a stronger less desirable flavor, or taste into the cigars. See american cedar has a much harsher smell, some like it more then others, but most stick with spanish. My latest project is on the back burner Ill be posting pics soon to show all my work.