What was your first awarded challenge coin? What is/was your most memorable coin?

2013-11-17T09:49:25-05:00

My first challenge coin was presented to me in the Marine Corps by the Commanding Officer of MSSG-24 (Camp LeJeune)

Most memorable challenge coin (pictured) was presented about a month before 9/11 while working in the Pentagon.

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 17 at 2013 10:45 AM

2013-11-17T10:45:38-05:00

Winning the soldier of the month board. I actually prefer to receive a coin over an award. 

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 30 at 2014 5:41 PM

2014-01-30T17:41:23-05:00

My very first coin was from my Squadron CSM for performing as rifle detail in very cold and windy conditions for one of our crew chiefs.

My most memorable coin would probably be.......8th Army Command Sergeant Major coin. I was an Overwater Survival (DUNKER) instructor, and came by for a demo. The water that day hadnt been heated like it usually was and despite our wetsuits, the 50 degree water made for a very long and painful time in the water. I was still shivering when he point the coin in my hand.

My highest coin was recieved from the USFOR-A Commanding General for doing Engineer work despite being an Aircraft Mechanic.

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made Jan 30 at 2014 6:12 PM

2014-01-30T18:12:49-05:00

My first one? Actually it was a coin from the city of Oceanside California. They organized a parade for all of First Marine Division when we returned from OIF 1. All of us the marched in the parade got one... .Most memorable? Probably the one I got from the Asst Secretary of Defense. I met him in a barbershop. I didn't even know who he was, we were just having a conversation. After a while, when he had to leave, he shook my hand and I had a coin appear! I still don't know his name =)

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 30 at 2014 7:02 PM

2014-01-30T19:02:11-05:00

First coin was as a young Soldier at Ft. Carson.  I was working at Evans Army Community Hospital and heard a Dr. tell a nurse that he needed a Spanish translator to assist with a patient.  I told him I spoke Spanish, he took me into the patient's room and I translated for him for over an hour, then I went back to my office and translated the discharge orders for the patient.  At the end of my shift I returned to the patient's room with the Dr. to give them the discharge orders.  When I came out of the room the Hospital Commander was there to present me his coin.  This was my first "coining" experience and didn't know what was really going on.  Later I received a second coin from my chief for the same reason.<div> </div><div>Most memorable would be the one I got a few weeks ago.  The Enlisted Diplomatic Association was invited to go bowling by the Colombian Ambassador to Bolivia in celebration of the Colombian National Police Birthday.  At the end of the games the top ten high scorers received a coin from the Colombian National Police.  Later I was talking to one of the police officers and told him we have the same tradition in the US Military.  He said "I know.  Where do you think we got the idea from?"  He then tells me that the US Military and the Colombian National Police have a long history of cooperation and that "coining" is on of the many things that they have learned from the Yankees.  Below is the coin, not the greatest picture but it will do.</div>

Response by CMC Robert Young made Jan 30 at 2014 7:27 PM

2014-01-30T19:27:41-05:00

First coin - It was actually the very first coin ever issued by a newly constituted command following our initial ready for operations review. I was singled out for leading the most proficient security boat crew. The O6 made a big deal about it being the first coin issued by the newly formed unit. Most memorable - I participated in a teleconference with a group that included the Master Chief Petty Officer of Coast Guard. He and I had a protracted conversation about development of a new law enforcement training/certification protocol. Several months later, I was selected to represent our local command at a semi formal banquet hosted in conjunction with our two star parent command. My wife and I were walking down the passageway towards the banquet hall when the MCPOCG spotted me. He spoke "Hey chief, I remember you", and then he grabbed me by the arm to pulled me into an alcove adjacent to a closed door. All of the bells in my head are going off....did he remember me for a good reason?....did he remember me for a bad reason? His follow up was very complimentary and I enjoyed our talk. During the middle of it, he motioned to a very attractive lady (turns out to be his wife) across the hall who joined us immediately. He reached in her purse; produced one of his coins which he passed to me in a handshake, and thanked me for my service.... it's on the top row of my coin box.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 30 at 2014 7:43 PM

2014-01-30T19:43:15-05:00

First coin: Got a pretty cool one from my Batallion commander for handling the pre-deployment medical readiness paperwork mountain as a young PFC.

Most memorable one was from the CO of the Gitmo naval hospital for taking care of the sailors we were working with in Haiti while we were there on a resupply flight.

Response by Lt Col Luis A. Rojas made Jan 30 at 2014 9:27 PM

2014-01-30T21:27:32-05:00

I do not remember my very first coin, but it was probably in the late 80s. I would say that my most memorable coin was from the Chief of Staff of the Air Force, General Michael Ryan in 1999. I was stationed at Thule AB Greenland and he was on his way back from Europe when he did a short stop at Thule enroute to DC. I gave him a quick tour of the Radar and helped his Aide receive a classified document via our secure fax.

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 30 at 2014 9:30 PM

2014-01-30T21:30:49-05:00

The first coin I ever got was after a cadet spent the summer with us. He was from the University of Tennessee and was so impressed by how much everyone in the platoon helped him learn and understand his future role as an officer that he sent our entire platoon coins. 

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 31 at 2014 11:35 PM

2014-01-31T23:35:00-05:00

My most memorable was from Gen. Tommy Franks while in theater.  I was standing outside the Aufaw Palace in Baghdad and he walked up to me asked me for a lighter.  We chatted for about 20 mins and he gave me one of his coins.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 1 at 2014 7:26 AM

2014-02-01T07:26:19-05:00

Oh, wow - memory lane! I can't remember which one was first because I got three in the space of less than a week. It was like the rainy season hitting after a LLLOOONNNGGG drought. :-)

I received one for performing as part of the color guard for a dining out from TJAG, one from the EUCOM Commander for doing his taxes and one from the EUCOM CSM for helping Soldiers with legal issues. So, a two star, a four star, and a numbered CSM coin!

My most memorable coin is a tie between two - I sat on an Eagle Board for Boy Scouts and once the kid earned his Eagle Scout, he had coins for it he gave out. We were NOT easy on him but he managed to coordinate the delivery of gathered humanitarian supplies from the K-town area to Iraq. The other coin was from the Secretary of Defense for escort duties during NATO change of command.

While I am always REALLY excited when my junior Soldiers get a coin, I do really miss getting my own - one of the few things that sucks about growing up in the Army's eyes. I really believe that the challenge coin is one of the best ways to convey "job well done" to Soldiers.

Response by CPO Jon Campbell made Feb 1 at 2014 8:31 AM

2014-02-01T08:31:27-05:00

Commandant James Loy's coin. He came to the Republic of Georgia to see the work we were doing with the Georgian Coast Guard and handed me one of his coins as he was leaving. Since our team only had three service members and two civilians, it was quite an honor to have the Commandant fly halfway around the world for a grip and greet. 

Response by SSG Robert Blum made Feb 1 at 2014 8:44 AM

2014-02-01T08:44:38-05:00

My first Coin was given to me when I was a PFC, My unit was conducting terrain denial, and Cordon operation for Operation Phantom Furry. A vehicle was running our check point and I was forced to apply force. I Disabled the Vehicle and injured the driver. Later that evening Our BDE Commander then COL David Quantock  (Now MG Quantock the US ARMY Provost Marshal General) came out on patrol with my squad, he heard about the incident and gave me the coin for being decisive, knowing my ROE, and doing everything I could to protect my Squad. My Most Memorable Coin was given to me by LTC Thomas Byrd (Now COL) former Commander of the 93rd MP BN and Fort Bliss Provost Marshal. A Call came out over the radio that there was a Female in her car at William Beaumont Army Medical center, who was on the phone with 911 saying that she had taken an unknown amount of medication to kill herself, and was going back and forth with weather she wanted to live or die, and was refusing to go into the ER. They gave a vehicle description and partial plate number. Both of which turned out to be wrong (she did not want to be found) Every Patrol was there looking for her, and me and my partner were on our third trip when I spotted a car with a female inside on her cell phone. We confirmed it was her and she lived. My Highest Coin, I recently (December) had the chance to run a mission in support of the SECDEF in Kabul. After the mission was complete we all got the chance to meet MR Hagel and he coined us all, my entire squad.

Response by TSgt Scott Hurley made Feb 1 at 2014 2:29 PM

2014-02-01T14:29:22-05:00

I have several challenge coins. I also lost a few. I also had one that was very expensive. It was solid gold that was specially minted in Suadi Arabia by our unit. And sadly, I never returned from Korea. Along with several other challenge coins. The most memorable coin was given to me, by the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Adm. Mullen. I also got one after the Foal Eagle exercise as a SSGT due to the fact I was shadowing the shadow (assistant leg pro-super), and then I became the shadow during the exercise, when the shadow got promoted to Pro-super of the leg. I got a coin for being proactive and for taking on additional responsibility outside of what I was supposed to do.

Response by SPC Christopher Salustro made Feb 1 at 2014 3:59 PM

2014-02-01T15:59:01-05:00

My first coin was from the 3-Star (DCGM I think) in Camp Casey, Korea. I have it around my house somewhere, 2009-2010 I believe. I cannot remember where we were but I remember it was ridiculously cold, and our FRSH's heater didn't work well, and we had to sleep on cots one on the pull down step-up in the FRSH and one on the ground next to it.

We heard the DCGM was coming down/Flying in and figured he wouldn't come by anyway, too cold for a general out here we thought. So "Sal and Pal" were out pulling a PAC from a bradley with an 88 and this guy walks up out of nowhere. We had no clue he was already there. Pal hops off the 88 and he coins us... good 'ol PFC's "What are you two foolin' around with here?" He said.. "Oh you know sir, trying not to break this thing anymore than it already is" I said. He just laughed gave us the coins and walked away.

I can't remember his name for the life of me. I felt like he was 8 feet tall though.. Huge guy.. then again I'm only 5'6..

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 1 at 2014 4:57 PM

2014-02-01T16:57:28-05:00

My Collection

Response by LT Jessica Kellogg made Feb 1 at 2014 5:00 PM

2014-02-01T17:00:09-05:00

My first coin was from the DEA Training Academy from a leadership program I attended. My first military coin was from my uncle (retired AF), who gave me one of his old unit coins when I first decided to join the Navy. 

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 2 at 2014 9:13 AM

2014-02-02T09:13:11-05:00

I have 2 coins that come to mind. The first was during my second deployment to Iraq. My S2 gave me a wooden buffalo nickel with S2 and his name on it for being a great security manager. The other was SMA Chandler gave me his coin while visiting my classroom during one of my lessons here at Ft. Gordon.

Response by SGT Brendan Beely made Feb 2 at 2014 10:14 AM

2014-02-02T10:14:09-05:00

First one was for winning a Battalion CIP inspection.  As a young Private, I thought it was the greatest thing ever.<div> </div><div>Most memorable was probably the one I got from the 1SG of a wounded soldier in Landstuhl - I was part of the Army Burn Flight team out of San Antonio, and we had flown to Landstuhl to evac a burned soldier that had been transported there from Iraq.  His 1SG helped us carry our crazy amount of gear (like 17 pelican cases for one patient), then gave us all coins for taking care of his man.</div>

Response by SSG Ralph Watkins made Feb 2 at 2014 11:18 AM

2014-02-02T11:18:12-05:00

Although I was Army, my unit was assigned to the MP's for RCT-1, 1st MARDIV in Fallujah in 2004. I carry that coin to this day in my wallet. Never in my life did myself & many of my unit members felt so proud & appreciated than from the Marines. Later we switched missions & some of our guys got coins from SEAL Team 1 & those are quite coveted as well. During our PSD work, we ended up presenting Iraqi Vice-President Shaways with a 55th BDE coin. He didn't seem to appreciate the coin like we do.

Response by CW2 Geoff Lachance made Feb 2 at 2014 11:22 AM

2014-02-02T11:22:59-05:00

Wow, This brings much emotion! I received my first coin from Col Allen, Deputy Commander, 2nd COSCOM, 7th Corps.

I and 14 members of my deployed Battalion were reassigned to the 2nd COSCOM, Port of Dammam, during the deployment phase of Operation Desert Shield. We worked directly for Col Allen, who I must say was a stern but compassionate leader. Our job was to assist incoming Commanders with what to, where to and how to for their preparation for deployment to their respective area of operation. At the conclusion of this mission, we were released back to our Battalion. At the end of the conflict, we moved to RAA Montana for preparation to go home. One day a small convoy drove in to our area and to our surprise, here comes Col Allen with his entourage. He gathered us in a small informal formation and presented each of us with a Certificate of Appreciation and a Second COSCOM coin for our efforts in receiving and processing units. Very warming to think this guy, with all he had going on at his level, taking the time to recognize us for our contribution. Simply reenforced my impression of this humble, respectable leader. Hope and pray he has had a good life!

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 2 at 2014 11:51 AM

2014-02-02T11:51:19-05:00

I was close to getting one from SMA Tilley. He asked my NCO who was his most squared away trooper. He stated "well, XXXX and XXXXX is on extra duty, Maravi is pending an Art 15...i guess PVT XXXXX since he just got here". I was so mad.

Response by LTC Paul Labrador made Feb 2 at 2014 12:41 PM

2014-02-02T12:41:34-05:00

My first coin came from the Commander of the ROTC program when I was commissioned at Advanced Camp back in 1996. My most memorable was from the DoJ element who was working with us at the Iraqi High Tribunal at FOB Union III.  They gave me a "Chemical Ali" coin when we turned him over to the Government of Iraq for execution of sentence.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 2 at 2014 2:01 PM

2014-02-02T14:01:17-05:00

Here is my collection. All of my coins are memorable to me.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 3 at 2014 9:29 AM

2014-02-03T09:29:53-05:00

My first coin was in '98 from the 3ID CSM.  I was a SPC in 10th EN BN at Ft. Stewart and saw a front page article in the local newpaper, the "Coastal Courier", bashing soldiers for not paying ad valorem taxes on their vehicles.  Some of the best quotes from the county tax assessor:- Privates make more than the clerks in my office- They all change their residences to avoid taxes anyway- I can't believe they don't want to pay for the roads they drive on and the schools their children attend.  This greatly offended me so I wrote a letter to the editor and explained that:- Privates (at that time) made under wage law if you computed using a 40 hour work week, which rarely applies to anyone in uniform- Most soldiers keep their home state and pay taxes like everyone else- Roads in the area are paid for using the gas tax (military in the area bought the most gas) and the schools are paid for with property taxes (military in the area own the most property)  About a month later, I was yanked out of the field (Marne Focus) and told I was meeting the Division CSM.  NO ONE TOLD ME WHY and I was a bit nervous.  My letter had been published and the PAO had flagged it and sent it to the CSM.  He thanked me for saying "what people of his rank weren't permitted to" and handed me my first coin.  My most memorable is a tie between the 1st Corps CSM coin when I was inducted into the SAMC and the Sec. Def. coin when I helped set up his visit to an Eastern European country.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 3 at 2014 9:44 AM

2014-02-03T09:44:15-05:00

7 July 2011 from MG Milano and CSM Stall in Fort Jackson for graduating BCT as Soldier of the Cycle.

They're like pokemon. You get one coin...you want to get them all!

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 3 at 2014 9:52 AM

2014-02-03T09:52:27-05:00

My first one was in 1994 from the 10th Mountain Commander for plowing snow at his house in a Cut V. lol. i now have over 300 of them and its hard to pick just one but i would have to say the one i got from SMA Kidd!!!!

Response by SSG Andrew Dydasco made Feb 3 at 2014 10:16 AM

2014-02-03T10:16:07-05:00

MSG,

My first coin was given to me at AIT by the LTC/CSM of my battalion for being the Distinguished Honor Graduate of my class. I've only been awarded five in total but I would say that my first one would also be the most memorable, because there was a group of us that were at the top of the class, and it was always very close in terms of who had the best scores. Our competitiveness was always very healthy though, and we helped each other out. It could have gone to anyone of us, but I squeaked in at #1. My other coins haven't had AS MUCH meaning behind them (even though some of them have been from higher ranking individuals), mainly because I think I only got them for being well spoken. If I stay in long enough, I hope to receive more coins that mean more to me.

Response by 1SG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 3 at 2014 4:41 PM

2014-02-03T16:41:16-05:00

My current favorite, from our ally down under:

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 3 at 2014 5:27 PM

2014-02-03T17:27:17-05:00

1st coin I evr got was from the Deputy Commander of V Corps (2 Stars) in 2003 at Anaconda, Iraq.

My most memorable coin was presented to me the day after Veteran's Day by our Commander in Chief, President Obama, and Vice President Biden. This was a really nice experience and definetely the highlight of my career.

Now, let's get back to tradiction, and go to the bar...LOL

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 3 at 2014 9:16 PM

2014-02-03T21:16:56-05:00

My favorite is the bronze one made from the melted bust of Saddam H. There were 4 huge heads on the corners of Al Salaam Palace in Baghdad back in 03-04 that is now known as FOB Prosperity. We called the place Camp Four Heads back then. The day Saddam was captured we had taken two of them down and removed the other two the next day. Some local Iraqi melted some of one down and made the coins for our BN and the mp's assigned to us. ( I posted all that previously...)

I think my most memorable was the DCGM for 8th Army Korea in 2012, BG Taylor. He had stopped in to recognize some of our Soldiers and was handing out coins. Well a H.S. friend of mine's son was doing a Flat Stanley project so I asked his aide if he would care if I asked for a pic of him holding ole Stanley.(C'mon, a GENERAL in a pic holding this kids flat Stanley, I figured he would love it.) So, I went and grabbed Stanley out of my room next door and came back and while posing for a pic he asked me to explain what Flat Stanley was. I told him that it was a school project for the son of a girl I went to H.S. with and what it was. He asked if I would send "this" to the boy (holding out a coin) and I said "hell yeah". Then he gave me one too lol. I sent him the coin like I said I would.

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 3 at 2014 10:46 PM

2014-02-03T22:46:51-05:00

I just receive one today from the Georgia State University Panther Battalion. I assisted the University ROTC program with the commissioning one of their Cadets.  

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 4 at 2014 11:12 AM

2014-02-04T11:12:45-05:00

This was my first coin. During Basic Training at Fort Benning, we were at the moving target range, and the CSM of Army Accessions Command was there observing the training. During a break in the training, we were all called into the bleachers and the CSM asked a few people why they joined the Army.

I didn't know at the time, but one of the Drill Sergeants had told the CSM my story, how I enlisted at 36 after waiting 17 years to get a medical waiver, etc. The CSM called me down in front of the company and asked me why I enlisted. I looked at him and told him, "Sergeant Major, I joined because the civilian world sucks." He got this shocked look on his face for a second, then asked the rest of the company if it was true that the civilian world sucked. Everyone cheered. He said that he was out of coins, but that he would have something special for me in a few days. We went back to training and I promptly forgot about it all.

Two days later, I and a Private were sitting CQ when a Drill Sergeant who looked to be about 7 feet tall came walking up. We both shot to our feet. He asked where he could find SPC Unger. I told him that was me. At that moment I was going through my mind trying to figure out if I had screwed up somehow. He extended his hand, and in it was this coin. He said that the CSM wanted me to have something special, and congratulations. I was "the man" in the platoon for the rest of the day.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 4 at 2014 2:16 PM

2014-02-04T14:16:20-05:00

My first was a 3rd Armored Div Coin (just dated myself).

My most memorable is my Air Assault Coin

My Top is from Sec Def.

My Favorite is from SMA

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 4 at 2014 2:26 PM

2014-02-04T14:26:35-05:00

My first was from my first duty station. E Co, 51st INF (ABN)(LRS), and it remains my most memorable and treasured. Out of all the coins I have received, it is the only one that is serial numbered, and the only one I had to sign for afterward with the unit historian.

Response by SSG Zachery Mitchell made Feb 5 at 2014 9:54 PM

2014-02-05T21:54:30-05:00

My first challenge coin was given to me by our new BDE CDR in 2008. I was the first Soldier in the BDE to receive his "new and redesigned" coin. My most memorable coin though came from a CW3 while deployed. He was the BRC and I worked with him regularly to accomplish our mission. He gave me the coin towards the end of the deployment to show appreciation for the hard work I put in for him. It was the most memorable to me because it came from someone that knew me on a personal level and not just some CSM/COL/General that was "told" about all the "great" thing's I have done.

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 5 at 2014 11:05 PM

2014-02-05T23:05:22-05:00

D Co 4/12 Infantry coin. Got it for being a senior SAW gunner for an Infantry Company. I used my knowledge to help and increase the other gunners knowledge and lethality. We went to a range and the SAW gunners were wreaking havoc on every target imaginable.

I love coins but I get frustrated at the cost to produce coins and the fact that any unit level coins must be purchased out of pocket. Some areas produce cheaper coins while other locales charge a premium for the same coin.

Response by MAJ Jim Woods made Feb 6 at 2014 10:26 PM

2014-02-06T22:26:31-05:00

The Challenge Coin wasn't around when I was on active duty. I have two. One was given to me by a member of the 2nd Ranger Bn. for supporting some operations in the late 70's (I was with the 9th US Infantry Division). I also got one from the CG USF-I/SVTT in late 2011 as a contractor in Baghdad.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 20 at 2014 3:53 PM

2014-02-20T15:53:31-05:00

The coin that I received was from the SMA, it was during the QMS symposium and I was tasked as the Antitierrorism/ Force Protection Officer for the school house, everything went so smooth during the event, that at the end, other member as long as I received the coin. I truly considered it a honor.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 20 at 2014 9:37 PM

2014-02-20T21:37:58-05:00

By far my favorite coin was the one I designed for the Brigadier General I worked for as an Aide. It was really cool to see my creation become reality since I put so much effort and time into the design.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 20 at 2014 11:01 PM

2014-02-20T23:01:44-05:00

I have received many coins over my career, some basic and some extraordinary. I would have to say that my most cherished coin would be from my Company Commander/First Sergeant when I was a Specialist. My Commander, CPT Dion J. Burmaz didn't have a chance to present it to me, but had been talking about it with my First Sergeant. CPT Burmaz died during a helicopter crash while flying on a training mission in South Korea on 26 Feb 2005. My First Sergeant presented me the coin at the memorial ceremony for my two pilots that died in the crash. I still remember my First Sergeant saying "CPT Burmaz wanted to give you this coin." That coin is by far my most cherished coin I have.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 20 at 2014 11:07 PM

2014-02-20T23:07:26-05:00

FBI Fly Team coin. Got it for working with some of their guys in 2007. I didn't do anything special to get it, but it looks awesome, and I'm sure it's somewhat rare to get.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 27 at 2014 10:12 PM

2014-02-27T22:12:00-05:00

I just got my first one for competing in the BWC at Bragg!

Response by GySgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 28 at 2014 2:21 PM

2014-02-28T14:21:47-05:00

I can't believe some of these collections, they are ginormous! The Corps is not big on coins like the Army but here is mine.

1st Coin: received as a Lance Corporal in Fallujah, Iraq by the Chairman of the Joint Chief of Staff, General Peter Pace, the first and only Marine Corps Chairman.

Favorite coin: received as a Sergeant in Helmand Province, Afghanistan by the 1st Marine Division Communications Chief, MGySgt Etherton. The coin is actually a poker chip and on the back shows a provocative dominatrix and states Used, Abused, Overworked, Underpaid, The Beatings Will Continue Until Morale Improves, and Communicators - The Division Sluts.

Most memorable coin: received as a Staff Sergeant in Tashkent, Uzbekistan by one of my men Air Force SSgt Michael Landis as a parting gift before I separated from the Marine Corps. The coin is the most colorful and well designed. Months later, SSgt Landis would lose his life to suicide.

Response by SGT Bryon Sergent made Feb 28 at 2014 4:35 PM

2014-02-28T16:35:15-05:00

My first coin was Given by my Battalion commander for graduating Airassault School. My most memorable was from a SGM in Holland.

Response by MSG Gene Potocki made Mar 1 at 2014 12:11 PM

2014-03-01T12:11:11-05:00

Here are mine. (missing my 509th coin) 3rd Bn coin most favorite, Bobby Bouma gave this one to me. I was part of the Honor Guard (Sword Party) at his wedding, he gave each of a coin to each us with our initials on it.

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 8 at 2014 7:44 AM

2014-04-08T07:44:11-04:00

Mine was presented to me by SMA Hall during BNCOC. He walked into our classroom and you could of heard a pin drop. He asked if anyone had any questions and I started a discussion with him and was the only one to engage him. When he left My instructor asked if I was going to give it to him because he was leading the class I guess you can imagine what I respectfully told him.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 22 at 2014 10:53 PM

2014-04-22T22:53:55-04:00

My first and most important coin is my Airman's Coin. I earned this after completing Basic.

One of my most memorable coins is the one I received from SEAC SGM Battaglia after I briefed him during a tour of the training launch facility at Minot AFB.

Response by CSM Michael Poll made Apr 22 at 2014 11:20 PM

2014-04-22T23:20:23-04:00

Pick one, they all have special meaning and I remember each one that was given to me. One is a SPC Coin given to me by one of my SPCs in Afghanistan. I guess that means more to me that one of my SOldiers spent their money on a coin to give to me.

Response by SSG Jeffrey Spencer made Apr 23 at 2014 6:50 PM

2014-04-23T18:50:27-04:00

As a secondary question, when did challenge coins come about? I never heard of them when I was in the Army. Now I see them everywhere.

I received my first one last year when I was a guest instructor for NDU at Ft. McNair.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 29 at 2014 10:21 PM

2014-04-29T22:21:23-04:00

I was awarded a coin from the CFSOCC CSM for winning Servicemember of the Quarter. It was the only SoQ board I've ever competed in, and he was a mentor, so it meant a lot more than a generic 'deployment' type coin.

Response by PO1 William "Chip" Nagel made Apr 29 at 2014 11:15 PM

2014-04-29T23:15:23-04:00

They were not a thing in the Navy when I was in. Received my first from an Army Resservist/National Guard Soldier that I worked with at W.W. Grainger. I think they are pretty cool.

Response by PO2 Rocky Kleeger made May 6 at 2014 12:06 AM

2014-05-06T00:06:21-04:00

Oddly enough, my first one was from USAA. My most memorable was the one given to me my a friend. Its a JCS coin, he was on Admiral Mullens' staff. Another one was when I met General Petraeus, he liked to challenge people to exercises. I said the only thing I was really good at was swimming. He gave me a coin for honesty and said, "you win". Then we shook hands and he went on to the next guy

Response by PFC Ryan Vance made May 6 at 2014 5:30 PM

2014-05-06T17:30:36-04:00

i have a few, most of them i bought. but the one that means the most to me was handed to me by my acting CO for putting a fire out in our barracks

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made May 8 at 2014 12:47 AM

2014-05-08T00:47:58-04:00

First one was from BDE CSM of an ROTC BDE when I was in ROTC. I was one of the lead planners for a four program, six colleges FTX.

Most memorable was a Chemical BDE CDR when I filled in for my Company Commander when he was away for school to brief him on the state of the company as we transitioned from their BDE to the EN BDE. I remember having a stack of papers yet to brief and him asking me if I had anything else. I smartly said "No, Sir. That is it." received my coin and moved on out.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 10 at 2014 7:13 AM

2014-05-10T07:13:35-04:00

My first coin is the Reserve Component Affairs for Signal Tower. As a Private in AIT, I led a detail to do some work for a Colonel. Sadly I trashed my first set of BDU's that same day.

Response by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 13 at 2014 6:59 PM

2014-06-13T18:59:25-04:00

My first and most memorable coin I received was an "Armed Forces Top Enlisted Association" that my father gave me when I mobilized for OIF/OEF. I carry it with me every day along with my CPO coin that I received with my anchors.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 16 at 2014 9:26 AM

2014-06-16T09:26:17-04:00

This is my collection, my first one is in the top row, fifth from the left. I was awarded that at my AIT graduation for being the honor graduate for my class.

Response by MSgt Lancia Stewart made Jun 16 at 2014 10:33 AM

2014-06-16T10:33:53-04:00

My first? Wow. I don't remember. My favorite? It's a tie. I have one from the (then) Undersecretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness for my efforts as my unit's "voting Nazi." I didn't take any excuses from anyone. "Don't wanna vote for president? Fine - vote local. Here's your absentee ballot request." Then there's the one I got in Hawaii from the 2-star Adjutant for winning the Marine Corps Spouse of the Year... Yes, as an AF MSgt. :) (If any Marines in here are attached to 3rd RADBN, is my big plastic check still on display?)

Response by SPC Richard White made Aug 4 at 2014 10:24 PM

2014-08-04T22:24:44-04:00

Never awarded one.I never heard of them until many years after I got out.I was in back in 89-90's.I have one Challenge coin from USABOT for membership.I do have a couple of tokes one is from the Governor of New Mexico when I was a kid and one of ship.

Response by MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca made Aug 24 at 2014 11:05 AM

2014-08-24T11:05:28-04:00

Still waiting on my RallyPoint coin... and waiting...

Response by TSgt Joshua Copeland made Sep 7 at 2014 10:20 PM

2014-09-07T22:20:16-04:00

SECDEF, I got tasked to do an extremely short notice comm pkg to include coord'ing with Pentagon PA to broadcast a speech he was giving. I did all the comm support for his stay for him and his whole entourage. I didn't sleep for days, but it was worth it when he put that coin in my hand and personally thanked me for all the work I did and actually listed things I did.

Response by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 7 at 2014 10:34 PM

2014-09-07T22:34:30-04:00

The most important ones to me are the coin I received from my father (CMSgt Ret) from the "Top Enlisted Assn" when I went on my last mob, and my Chief Petty Officer coin I received when I was promoted to CPO. I carry both with me at all times. I have a pretty good collection of coins. I also cherish the personal coin of SgtMaj of the Marine Corps Gene Overstreet that he gave me himself.

Response by PO1 Shannon Drosdak made Sep 8 at 2014 2:51 AM

2014-09-08T02:51:13-04:00

I have received a lot of coins through my career from all different ranks and VPs but I think the one that is the coolest was from SECNAV Ray Mumbus, he took time out to chat with me for a few minutes asked what I thought of the ship and my job. It wasn't your normal line up, shake hands, here's your coin. He came up to me personally. I was excited to get the coin, one more for my hubbies collection. It's also kinda cool to google my name and this be the first picture to come up.

Response by SGT Mitch McKinley made Sep 17 at 2014 12:24 PM

2014-09-17T12:24:41-04:00

I would also have to add the coin I got from the 160th SOAR recruiting team.
That was pretty cool.

Response by SPC Richard White made Oct 14 at 2014 8:56 PM

2014-10-14T20:56:59-04:00

I was never awarded Challenge coins.I never saw them while I was in. Recently I was sent a N.M.M.I. alumni challenge coin by a NMMI Hall of Fame Inductee.I have 2 USABOT challenge coins which I received as part of my membership in USABOT.

Response by PO2 Rocky Kleeger made Oct 14 at 2014 9:04 PM

2014-10-14T21:04:23-04:00

First was from the CO of VFA-305, the squadron no longer exists at NAWS Pt. Mugu, but the coin still exists.

Most memorable was given to me by the pilot of Air Force One. It is an actual Presidential coin.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 14 at 2014 4:35 PM

2014-11-14T16:35:34-05:00

My 1st coin came to me as a PFC when I was tasked to be a driver during the Transportation Corps Regimental Week. I drove around a number of VIPs and wound up receiving a coin from then BG Hodge during his promotion/assumption of command in 2005.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 21 at 2015 8:59 PM

2015-01-21T20:59:19-05:00

First coin was awarded by a Major from 10th Special Forces Group while I was deployed to Bosnia many moons ago. I worked at the US National Intelligence Cell in Sarajevo and had been tasked to help them out with intelligence requirements. As the major wrapped up his tour and prepared to leave he shook my hand and passed his coin. It was awesome because I totally wasn't expecting it.

Most memorable? Probably another one that I got on that same deployment. Our battalion commander and the commander of the other battalion in our intelligence group had both come to the USNIC for an inspection tour. We did the whole dog and pony show for them and my BC walked through and shook all the lower enlisted guys hands and left. The other BC took some time talking with us and presented several of us with his coin for excellence.

Response by SFC Mark Merino made Jan 25 at 2015 11:33 PM

2015-01-25T23:33:05-05:00

General Cody....Vice Chief. You got me beat.

Response by LTC Stephen C. made Jan 26 at 2015 12:27 AM

2015-01-26T00:27:37-05:00

Well, SGT Private RallyPoint Member, you win hands down! I like these coins though, because they show that challenge coins have made it outside the military/government community! My alma mater, Auburn University, had a Veterans Day celebration the weekend before Veterans Day 2014. All veterans (not just Auburn alumni) were coined if they went by the Alumni tent and showed their ID, etc. The gold one is from the Auburn Alumni Association and the silver one is from the Auburn Athletic Department. Nice touch, I thought!

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 26 at 2015 12:28 AM

2015-01-26T00:28:43-05:00

Deputy Commanding General Corp of Engineers 2-Star

Response by TSgt Joshua Copeland made Jan 26 at 2015 6:21 AM

2015-01-26T06:21:54-05:00

SecDef. Profile pic is me getting it.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 26 at 2015 8:30 AM

2015-01-26T08:30:45-05:00

Rally Point should make a coin. Just saying

Response by SMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 26 at 2015 8:32 AM

2015-01-26T08:32:40-05:00

This is the highest coin I've received.

Response by SMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 26 at 2015 9:09 AM

2015-01-26T09:09:24-05:00

I've got a few. My 1st Sgt has a couple hundred on his desk. I asked if he robbed the U.S. Mint. He laughed and said that's 33 years of coins. He retires in June.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 26 at 2015 9:53 AM

2015-01-26T09:53:03-05:00

I got a George Washington. I think I win.

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 26 at 2015 10:02 AM

2015-01-26T10:02:23-05:00

I have two, one means a great deal for the reason given, I had an E-4 sent to me because his father was getting ready to pass on from cancer. He had a lot of sick or injured family but came to work everyday with a smile. He advanced and had to move on was his father passed. He sent me a coin from his ship the Barque Eagle. The second has a funny story, the Commandant of the USCG came to give a speech and have diner with the Midshipmen of the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy his aid lost his dress pants so he borrowed mine. When he sent them back his coin and a hand written note was with them. So I can say the USCG Commandant wore my pants.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 26 at 2015 10:09 AM

2015-01-26T10:09:17-05:00

My first coin was from my first deployment in my first assignment and it was given to me from the unit commander (COL). My most memorable was downrange and was given to me by the deputy commander, at the time, of 10th Mountain, (MG). Ahh memories.

Response by SSG Edward Geer made Jan 26 at 2015 12:19 PM

2015-01-26T12:19:02-05:00

Back when I was in (75-96) Challenge coins weren't as popular as they are today. You'd find them at Bn level and higher. However, I did receive a few coins. Three that I hold more are these two. The 1st is my Manchu (9th Inf Regt) coin I was presented with from the CSM 9th Inf Regt in 83. The 2nd is the I was task to create for the Bde Cdr of 3rd Bde, 7th Inf. Div. (Light). HE gave me the proof. The 3rd I received during Operation Just Cause

Response by LCDR Jamie Galus made Jan 26 at 2015 9:42 PM

2015-01-26T21:42:07-05:00

A reminder of one of my proudest moments in uniform.

Response by SGM Mikel Dawson made Jan 27 at 2015 12:22 PM

2015-01-27T12:22:10-05:00

Here is my collection. Unfortunately I like other have sent some in the mail and they never came. The one on the far right, by itself is my pure silver one given to me by the BDE Cdr of an Hungarian Infantry unit I worked with. The CDR also personally asked me to present some unit awards to some of their soldiers at their rotation out of Kosovo. This had to have been the greatest honor bestowed upon me. I will never forget it. The single coin is a close up of the Hungarian coin.
The three coins are special, on the left - was given to me by the infantry guys I patrolled with in Iraq, center, from the CDR for my work on the Sava River, on right SGM Academy.

The two coins, left, from the Australian Colonel I worked for in Baghdad, Right - From a Marine CPT who thought I gave him and his men very good support while I was in Kosovo.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 27 at 2015 6:49 PM

2015-01-27T18:49:42-05:00

Here is my favorite coin and also my most memorable coin.
I earned both of these in 2009 while on deployment to Iraq.
The coin on left was presented when my unit left and I was asked to stay an extra while, as my replacement had a medical issue and would be arriving later; I stayed and worked longer. I appreciated the Thank You.
The coin on the right was presented to me by the Sergeant Major that I was working for during the deployment. He appreciated my hard work, it was nice to be appreciated.
These are my Top 2.

Response by Col Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 7 at 2015 6:14 AM

2015-02-07T06:14:29-05:00

Challenge accepted, I have a number of interesting ones from a Protocol tour earlier in my career, photos are forthcoming. : )

Response by GySgt Wayne A. Ekblad made Feb 7 at 2015 7:07 AM

2015-02-07T07:07:57-05:00

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 7 at 2015 7:12 AM

2015-02-07T07:12:04-05:00

Are we trying to keep a thread? E.g. match one already shown, then add a different unit?
Or are we just going to show how much bling we've collectively acquired over time?

Response by CPL Clarence Crawford made Feb 7 at 2015 7:34 AM

2015-02-07T07:34:32-05:00

Two of my favorites: 101st Airborne and 160th SOAR

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 7 at 2015 8:19 AM

2015-02-07T08:19:18-05:00

I love collecting the coins I received, each one comes with a memory and a sense of pride for me because it means I did something and it was worth while. This is mainly while I was Enlisted.

Response by SGM Mikel Dawson made Feb 7 at 2015 8:25 AM

2015-02-07T08:25:48-05:00

A few I've received. In the group shot, the one on the far right is my solid silver coin presented by the BN CDR of a Hungarian Infantry BN I worked with.

Response by Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS made Feb 7 at 2015 8:45 AM

2015-02-07T08:45:14-05:00

Two pics here.
Top Left (3/1 - Balls of the Corps): Please note this is the CORRECT image of the Bull, not the PC version that seems to be running around of a Steer (missing the Balls of the Corps).
Top Right: VMM 261 Buddy of mine retired from there
LL: Got when I was a gun dealer. Long story, lots of hoops jumped through. Got a coin. Kinda cool
Lower Center: I was actually working at Staples. I was making ends meet when I decided government contracting wasn't for me. Ran into SgtMaj Eucom, while he was statesite on leave. He was trying to get receipts for the club over there. Couldn't get anyone (store) to ship them overseas. I ordered them to my store, and mailed them out.
LR: I've ran into Gen Pace a dozen or so times (both in and out of the Marines). I don't remember why I got this specific coin. I think I sold him a gun.

Second picture is US Marine Corps Marathon Series Running coins. For distances less than a Half Marathon, they give coins. I did the first three 17.75k events, and I have the first two years that they gave coins for Irish Sprint 10k. My wife won an entry to Marine Corps Marathon one year off the Irish Sprint, and another we got guaranteed entrees into it. One of the best Marathons on the planet.

Response by TSgt Joshua Copeland made Feb 7 at 2015 9:33 AM

2015-02-07T09:33:41-05:00

Here are some of mine.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 7 at 2015 11:43 AM

2015-02-07T11:43:56-05:00

Three of my favorites.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 7 at 2015 6:26 PM

2015-02-07T18:26:43-05:00

My current, 4th Battalion, 10th Infantry Regiment, and my previous, 1st Cavalry Division!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 9 at 2015 12:03 PM

2015-02-09T12:03:55-05:00

I have more, will post them later. No, I didn't buy any of mine. (Like some do..No I'm not accusing anyone), These two here were given to me by a 3 star general and a two star general. When I find my best 2 (hopefully soon) was given to me by Ronald Regean and General Stormin' Normandy... The rest I wil tell about later.

Response by SFC Collin McMillion made Feb 14 at 2015 4:10 PM

2015-02-14T16:10:50-05:00

My pride..

Response by GySgt Wayne A. Ekblad made Feb 14 at 2015 4:28 PM

2015-02-14T16:28:49-05:00

One of my favorites . . .

Response by GySgt Wayne A. Ekblad made Feb 14 at 2015 4:29 PM

2015-02-14T16:29:26-05:00

Honoring all who serve or have served . . .

Response by GySgt Wayne A. Ekblad made Feb 15 at 2015 6:37 AM

2015-02-15T06:37:47-05:00

A few from my collection . . .

Response by GySgt Wayne A. Ekblad made Feb 15 at 2015 6:41 AM

2015-02-15T06:41:40-05:00

I did two tours on Okinawa . . .

Response by GySgt Wayne A. Ekblad made Feb 15 at 2015 6:47 AM

2015-02-15T06:47:48-05:00

From my two tours at Camp Lejeune . . .

Response by GySgt Wayne A. Ekblad made Feb 15 at 2015 6:49 AM

2015-02-15T06:49:44-05:00

Quantico . . .

Response by GySgt Wayne A. Ekblad made Feb 15 at 2015 6:56 AM

2015-02-15T06:56:20-05:00

Response by GySgt Wayne A. Ekblad made Feb 15 at 2015 7:09 AM

2015-02-15T07:09:57-05:00

Embassy duty . . .

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 15 at 2015 7:29 AM

2015-02-15T07:29:18-05:00

My first coin was lost in a poker game. It resembled to this.

Response by GySgt Wayne A. Ekblad made Feb 15 at 2015 7:49 AM

2015-02-15T07:49:38-05:00

Response by GySgt Wayne A. Ekblad made Feb 15 at 2015 7:50 AM

2015-02-15T07:50:10-05:00

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 15 at 2015 8:08 AM

2015-02-15T08:08:55-05:00

I received my first coin from my company commander 3 months after I finished AIT; it was my first training mission with the company.

My most memorable is from a National Guard Brigadier General (at the time) not because of rank but because I was so disappointed in her choice to continue training even though Soldiers were dropping like flies from dehydration, the water tower was contaminated and had to be drained, and we did not have enough IV bags in the area. 1 Soldier even lost her life during this training exercise that we were at in Arkansas, August 2006. In my opinion, no training is worth a life if it can be prevented - and in this situation it could have.

Response by GySgt Wayne A. Ekblad made Mar 8 at 2015 9:27 AM

2015-03-08T09:27:46-04:00

Response by SSG David Shifflett made Mar 8 at 2015 9:31 AM

2015-03-08T09:31:32-04:00

Mine was the 32 Air Operation Squadron, Ramstien Germany. I received my call sign to, "TAZ". Great memories.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 8 at 2015 6:03 PM

2015-03-08T18:03:05-04:00

re did them

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 8 at 2015 6:59 PM

2015-03-08T18:59:05-04:00

Given to me by Vietnam Vet friend. I didn't know about these until my buddy gave me them. These are my favorites

Response by SSG Hank Ortega made Mar 8 at 2015 7:28 PM

2015-03-08T19:28:45-04:00

My first was the Battalion coin given to us as we DEROS'd from Viet Nam. 1/327 Infantry, 101st Airborne. 1968-1969.
Since, I have been coined by the Commander of the Maken Island at the Admiral's Reception (I was one of the few Army Veterans there), by the pilot the F-22 Demo lane (while giving him a ride to the VIP tent at the Air Show in San Francisco during Fleet Week, and by the Commander 5th Army as he was touring the hospital at Ft Sam. I was with a young soldier from my old unit who had been badly injured in Iraq, and was at PT with him, helping his work out. As the Gen'l came through with his entourage, he stopped and visited with both of us. He said he was glad I could be there with my "son". I quickly responded that the soldier was not my son, but rather was a young warrior who was serving in the same team (Tiger Force, 1/327, 101 Airborne) I served in 42 years before. I explained that we had lost three men in the same attack that this young man had been injured in and that the veterans of the team had been present at each funeral, while I was here to work with this member of the team (we stayed over 3 months).
He reached into his pocket, said "Outstanding!", and coined us both.

Response by Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS made Mar 14 at 2015 11:32 PM

2015-03-14T23:32:13-04:00

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 15 at 2015 1:59 PM

2015-03-15T13:59:30-04:00

Silver coin - 192nd Battalion coins awarded for SOQ/SOY
Gold & Blue coin - 737 Company coins for morale
Red coin - 84th Battalion coin / MACOM during deployment
Bronze coin - deployment coin symbolizing our collaboration with Czech EOD Personnel.

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made Mar 15 at 2015 4:19 PM

2015-03-15T16:19:31-04:00

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 15 at 2015 10:44 PM

2015-03-15T22:44:20-04:00

bump for later

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 16 at 2015 9:18 AM

2015-03-16T09:18:06-04:00

Performing as Honor Guard detail for AD EOD soldier KIA.

Response by GySgt Wayne A. Ekblad made Mar 20 at 2015 3:36 PM

2015-03-20T15:36:53-04:00

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 20 at 2015 3:55 PM

2015-03-20T15:55:53-04:00

I got one from MG Vandell in Korea. I got it for briefing him about my radar at a live fire for the Avenger Missile System.

Response by SFC Charles S. made Mar 20 at 2015 5:16 PM

2015-03-20T17:16:59-04:00

Here is the Whole Set of earned coins. Then My Special Meaning Earned Coins.

Response by SSG Keven Lahde made Mar 21 at 2015 1:53 AM

2015-03-21T01:53:23-04:00

Bump for later

Response by SSG Keven Lahde made Mar 21 at 2015 1:56 AM

2015-03-21T01:56:17-04:00

My first Challenge coin was awarded to me for standing guard at a one of our soldiers who was killed by a teenager who ran a red light and texting. At first I had no idea what a challenge coin was. When someone told me I went back and looked at it and realized it was one. I will post pictures of it later. That coin will always be special to me as she was like a sister to me.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 21 at 2015 2:34 AM

2015-03-21T02:34:27-04:00

This was presented day after April fools last year, I have various company coins somewhere.. Somewhere indeed

Response by SSG Gerhard S. made Mar 23 at 2015 7:33 AM

2015-03-23T07:33:15-04:00

I got my first Unit Coin in 1984 while in-processing with Sig Co 10th SFGA at Ft Devens, MA.

Response by LTC Stephen C. made Mar 23 at 2015 10:09 PM

2015-03-23T22:09:26-04:00

SGM Matthew Quick, the first awarded challenge coin I received was from MG Robert Hope, the 95th Division (TNG) Commanding General in 1990. He named his coin the Ironman Award, which has a great deal of history behind it.
The 95th Division (TNG) became famous as the 95th ID in WWII and became known as the "Iron Men of Metz". This special designation was allowed because the name was given to them by the failed German defenders of the ancient, but heavily fortified French bastion of Metz during the fierce and relentless battle the 95th waged to capture the ancient city.

Response by SGT John Willis made Mar 24 at 2015 5:26 PM

2015-03-24T17:26:24-04:00

Here is my favorite. Got it for patrolling the Czech border before the end of the Cold War.

Response by SSgt Dan Montague made Mar 27 at 2015 7:29 PM

2015-03-27T19:29:10-04:00

So this might be the perfect question to ask this. I have not yet acquired my perfect coin. However I have found a photo of it. Does anyone have any connections that might know where to acquire one. I have been looking all over the web.

Response by PFC Mike Mcdermott made Mar 31 at 2015 12:41 AM

2015-03-31T00:41:23-04:00

Lol mine was a 1st ranger battalion coin. Plt sgt gave it to me because I was so squared in the field (8 Up in garrison though lol)...

Response by SPC Corbin Doades made Apr 21 at 2015 3:10 AM

2015-04-21T03:10:36-04:00

Don't have a picture of it but I do have a Joint Chief of Staff coin. Got it in 2004 while serving in Djibouti, Africa for CJTF-HOA. It was part of the Christmas Tour. Had Robin Williams, Leanne Tweeden, and a couple of others.

Response by SCPO David Lockwood made Apr 23 at 2015 8:23 AM

2015-04-23T08:23:22-04:00

SECDEF Cohen. Received it when he visited Japan.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 23 at 2015 8:34 AM

2015-04-23T08:34:04-04:00

I was coined by 5 general officers, while serving over in Kuwait.

My most memorable was the last.

After transitioning to becoming my BN's transportation officer, a BG came into our AO to scope out the operation.

Once he had spoken to some of the field grades, he moved into my section and I briefed him on our current transportation operations.

As a young LT, with zero transportation experience or knowledge, I relied very heavily on my NCO--a super-squared away SFC who took me under his wing and taught me quite a bit about transportation.

When coined, I said "Thank you, Sir. But, wiith all due respect, though, I feel my NCO is most deserving of this....and, I would ask that you present him with this coin, instead."

The BG looked in my eyes, nodded, proceeded to take the coin back, turned to my NCO, coined him....then turned to his assistant and asked for another coin.

We were both coined that day.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 23 at 2015 8:45 AM

2015-04-23T08:45:15-04:00

Got mine from SMA Chandler

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 23 at 2015 8:51 AM

2015-04-23T08:51:58-04:00

USS San Antonio commissioning coin when she was commissioned in Corpus Christi Texas, presented to me by the CO. Although all of them are special in their own way but the post made it sound like I had to pick one.

Response by CPT Bob Moore made Apr 23 at 2015 9:05 AM

2015-04-23T09:05:18-04:00

I received a Coin from SMA Kidd when I was a PFC in Korea. I also met SMA McKinney during that same year right after he came into the position. That year left quite an impression on me and has shaped my military career and a lot of my civilian career as well.

Response by SPC Alyssa Shutt made Apr 23 at 2015 9:13 AM

2015-04-23T09:13:25-04:00

I received one from former President Ford. It was given to me for being apart of his security (QRF) when he was laid to rest in his Presidential Library in Grand Rapids Michigan

Response by PO1 Cleve Ikaika Waiwaiole made May 13 at 2015 2:17 AM

2015-05-13T02:17:54-04:00

My most favorite..
From RADM Frank Morneau. Got it for my success on deployment as a senior E-4 in
E-5 position. Awarded at 2014 Seabee ball.

Response by SGT Justin Lamb made May 13 at 2015 2:27 AM

2015-05-13T02:27:38-04:00

SPC,

I met someone that was awarded the Medal of Honor years back and after having a long conversation about the army then and now (well now as in 2004ish) he gave me one of his coins. Had his name on it with the Medal of Honor in the middle. It was pretty cool to say the least.

Response by CW3 Kevin Storm made Aug 5 at 2015 7:17 PM

2015-08-05T19:17:21-04:00

I have a coin from the NCO's of the 42nd ID HHC. There commander and XO were killed by the unit supply Sergeant at FOB Danger in 2005. The Motor Sgt and First Sergeant tracked me down just before they left. There words touched me, they said they talked amongst themselves, and of all the officers on the FOB, I reminded them of their Commander. I took that to heart as I had been impressed by Captain Esposito.

Below is a blog about the case from Captain Esposito's Wife, and the image is of the Supply Sergeant while not convicted of the crime, is in my mind the man responsible for the death of the two officers at FOB Danger.

http://siobhanesposito.blogspot.com/

Siobhan Esposito's Blog

I am Siobhan Esposito, the widow of Captain Phillip Esposito, who was brutally murdered in Iraq along with First Lieutenant Louis Allen by Alberto Martinez, a soldier under my husband's command. This is my personal testament to the injustice to which I have been forced to stand witness.

Response by CW4 Guy Butler made Aug 11 at 2015 2:52 PM

2015-08-11T14:52:41-04:00

GEN Richard Myers when I was in Walter Reed.

Response by Sgt Spencer Sikder made Aug 11 at 2015 4:58 PM

2015-08-11T16:58:13-04:00

LTG Mulholland, Jr., CG, Special Forces Command. Participation in Operation Snow Ball Express, where he was present to see families of the fallen off onto a corporate sponsor weekend retreat. As I thanked him for showing up to the event, he indicated he wouldn't be anywhere else because 17 of these families were his. Utmost respect for senior officers who haven't lost sight of the men and women who have served under them. In this case, he didn't forget their families either. Hooah! Or like we like to say in Marine-eze, Ooh Rah!

Response by SGT Michael Glenn made Aug 11 at 2015 5:52 PM

2015-08-11T17:52:57-04:00

My favorite was from my BN CDR in Korea for being a fireguard during a patrol on the "Z". The story was funny and I have told it before on here....

Response by SGT Michael Glenn made Aug 11 at 2015 6:05 PM

2015-08-11T18:05:18-04:00

My 1st coin was awarded to me by our Bn CDR In Ft Lewis for exceptional duty while a radio carrier for a field problem, I didnt think I deserved it as I just did what I was told and it was my job. My 2nd one was for outstanding Arms room In Ft Lewis for bringing the Arms Room from a failing to best in BN after taking over as unit armorer. My 3rd one was in Korea for being the only soldier to hit a tank at 1000 meters with a dragon, was wayyyy cool watching that baby pop and buck as it went down range and I had thought I had lost it several times. My 4th was given to me By the Bn Cdr In Korea for making him laugh during an inspection prior to a patrol on the DMZ. My 5th was given to me by the Bn CDR in Germany for exceptional leadership during a field problem where I actually ignored orders from a SSg and flanked the enemy (miles training) and took out a platoon of tracked vehicles (Vampires) before they knew what was going on. The SSg was peeved to say the least but my vehicle was the only one to survive as they had bottled us up in a kill zone and had been doing so all day, no one that went through the zone survived until I did what I did.

Response by Sgt William Biggs made Aug 12 at 2015 11:35 PM

2015-08-12T23:35:07-04:00

I have no earthly idea where it went, but I have one from Commandant of the Marine Corps General Conway around December of 2006. I had just been blown up, had no shave, fresh cammies (no name tapes since my original cammies were cut off), and a bewildered looking BC. Still couldn't hear quite right and the Commandant called me LCpl Davis. I think the BC and I were both happy about that.

Response by SPC David Hannaman made Aug 13 at 2015 3:22 PM

2015-08-13T15:22:38-04:00

Pre Desert Storm 101st Airborne (at least I hope it's in one of those boxes).

Response by PFC Ryan Vance made Aug 20 at 2015 11:30 PM

2015-08-20T23:30:09-04:00

I only have 1 coin. i received it while i was stationed at Ft. Lewis. In 2009 my unit was deployed and i was on rear detachment. i was assigned to CQ when a soldier came down and said he needed a fire extinguisher. i grabbed the fire extinguisher and went to the barracks room to find a T.V. on top of the stove was on fire. i put the fire out and was awarded my one and only coin when i returned to duty

Response by SSG Edward Geer made Aug 27 at 2015 11:55 PM

2015-08-27T23:55:40-04:00

My first coin was presented to me by the 9th Infantry Regiment CSM; CSM. McCullough in 1985 just prior to PCSing to Korea.

The second one is probably one of my favorite. That is because I was tasked by the Bde CSM to design this coin and I was given one of the proofs.

Response by SGT Jose Perdelia-Torres made Dec 18 at 2015 2:29 AM

2015-12-18T02:29:15-05:00

My first coin was given to me by my Battalion Commander for my duties in the battalion TOC, I take great pride in it. I always tried to be the Soldier worthy of all the vignettes I was so fond of reading. I literally had the Ranger Creed, Infantryman's Creed, NCO Creed, and the Soldiers Creed memorized verbatim. I would run to and fro everywhere, I didn't want to ever be perceived as lazy and half-assed. I would joke with everyone I met. Provide Greetings, even on the base, and try to contribute to the overall morale of the Unit. I earned my first coin, and still have all of mine to this day!

Response by Edward Joy made Feb 3 at 2016 8:37 PM

2016-02-03T20:37:23-05:00

We make challenge coin more than 10 years, when you wanna do your coins, please mail me at any time ( [login to see] )

Response by Edward Joy made Feb 3 at 2016 9:07 PM

2016-02-03T21:07:06-05:00

Antique silver coin made by us, make your coin please email me ( [login to see] )

Response by SGT Patrick Reno made Feb 9 at 2016 5:21 PM

2016-02-09T17:21:48-05:00

Got my first one for 40 out of 40 on the range in Berlin with the M16.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 8 at 2016 10:53 AM

2016-03-08T10:53:36-05:00

don't have pictures available atm, but I have two from delegates of the Neutral Nations Supervisory Commission. One was a Swiss "Divisionar" (2 star equivalent) and the other was a Swedish Generallöjtnant (3 star)

Response by SPC Rory J. Mattheisen made May 6 at 2016 4:34 PM

2016-05-06T16:34:45-04:00

I have come to cherish the coin given to the 101st from the citizens of Hopkinsville, KY.

Response by PO1 William "Chip" Nagel made May 6 at 2016 4:37 PM

2016-05-06T16:37:54-04:00

Sorry to say they weren't a thing in My Navy the Naval Security Group during my 21 yr tenure. I kinda like them and have bought a few since I retired representing the commands/military industries I served in.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 6 at 2016 4:47 PM

2016-05-06T16:47:59-04:00

when i retired 2 star, it was better than no recognition from my unit

Response by CSM David Heidke made May 6 at 2016 4:50 PM

2016-05-06T16:50:31-04:00

This is a coin that I made in order to present to the Brockton Police Department and other brothers and sisters in service as a thanks for the comradeship they provided to my late wife, and the honors they showed her at her funeral. This one is numbered 00 and I carry it with me always.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 6 at 2016 4:58 PM

2016-05-06T16:58:08-04:00

SMA Tilley

Response by Capt Seid Waddell made May 6 at 2016 5:09 PM

2016-05-06T17:09:10-04:00

SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member, is this your great-uncle?

http://www.honorstates.org/index.php?id=232627

Alfred J Bernardy, Private First Class from Minnesota, Korean War Casualty

Response by SFC Everett Oliver made May 6 at 2016 9:04 PM

2016-05-06T21:04:22-04:00

We didn't have these when I did my 22 years. But in the past 5 years as Commander of a very small American Legion Post, I have received 3 of them, I cherish each of them, One from an American Legion Commander from higher up the chain, One from an A F General And one from our Police Chief.

Response by COL John McClellan made May 6 at 2016 10:24 PM

2016-05-06T22:24:27-04:00

Chief of Engineers!

Response by SSG William Jones made May 7 at 2016 1:39 AM

2016-05-07T01:39:10-04:00

Major General Lindsay M. Freeman gave me a challenge coin from himself as division commander of the 100th Division (OSUT). When he was a mere company commander, I was his company clerk nearly 5 decades ago. That was when we used stone tablets and chisels!!!

Response by MAJ Raúl Rovira made May 8 at 2016 2:54 AM

2016-05-08T02:54:38-04:00

From Tony Burgess. One of the three founders of CompanyCommand. He sent me a coin to welcome me to the team as a Topic Lead in June 2005. An honor to be selected to serve the profession.

Response by Cpl Justin Goolsby made May 11 at 2016 1:25 PM

2016-05-11T13:25:19-04:00

I'm going to be honest, my most sentimental coin was my boot camp coin. No one believed in me when I said I was going to be a Marine. So the coin I received in boot camp is a constant reminder of what you can accomplish if you set your mind to it.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made May 23 at 2016 10:46 PM

2016-05-23T22:46:48-04:00

Chairman of the Joint Chiefs Admiral Mullen in 2009.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 29 at 2016 1:03 PM

2016-07-29T13:03:31-04:00

My first challenge coin was from the National Guard, given to me by my Recruiter and by the NCOIC of the RSP. Simple coin, says National Guard on one side and an Eagle on the other.

My most memorable... Probably the one from 262d QM Bn, I was there for AIT and got a coin for helping design a shirt for battered women, SHARP, and I Am Strong.

I have 9 total, some of them a gift shop coins from buddies. One I got from a Chaplain for engaging in church services in BCT. What can I say time away from DS in BCT I took it. The shop coins are cool though, did a coin exchange the day before we left AIT so we got some with the Fort on it or our MOS.

Response by PVT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 29 at 2016 4:22 PM

2016-07-29T16:22:50-04:00

Personally i think the 1-15th coin i got is the coolest because of the history. I received this coin as the unit went inactive and my section was tasked to handle the historical items from the regiment now that we are the last of the 15th regiment. It is special to me because its the last coin of a very important battalion both in the regiment and of the united states. Can Do

Response by SGT Bryon Sergent made Jul 29 at 2016 4:22 PM

2016-07-29T16:22:56-04:00

Will Have to update when I get home! lol

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 29 at 2016 4:58 PM

2016-07-29T16:58:16-04:00

I got this from SMA Tilley (Ret) when I was at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 29 at 2016 5:40 PM

2016-07-29T17:40:38-04:00

Bottle opener.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 29 at 2016 5:49 PM

2016-07-29T17:49:10-04:00

This may not be the most politically correct . . . but it was certainly the most unique. Sandy :)

Response by SSgt Dan Montague made Jul 29 at 2016 7:28 PM

2016-07-29T19:28:42-04:00

Response by SGT Dawn Walles made Jul 29 at 2016 8:28 PM

2016-07-29T20:28:35-04:00

One from every SMA during my time in from 99'-13'.

Response by SGT Dawn Walles made Jul 29 at 2016 8:32 PM

2016-07-29T20:32:00-04:00

However, my most unique coin, was my specialist coin. I gave it to a 1star and told him "thanks for all you do!" We laughed, I did push ups. He kept the coin. Totally worth it ...

Response by CMDCM Gene Treants made Jul 29 at 2016 11:08 PM

2016-07-29T23:08:42-04:00

Challenge Coins were not done way back in the late Twentieth Century, Unfortunately or at least in the Navy as far as I know. They sure are unique and nice to see and collect now, however. Looking forward to seeing more of them.

Response by SGT Chris Stephens made Jul 29 at 2016 11:13 PM

2016-07-29T23:13:55-04:00

I got blue scroll coin from the Joint-Security Area on the Korean DMZ.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 15 at 2017 9:12 PM

2017-02-15T21:12:28-05:00

From SMA Tilley

Response by LTC Greg Henning made Feb 15 at 2017 9:12 PM

2017-02-15T21:12:44-05:00

Secretary of Defense for planning his trip to Iraq in 2005

Response by SFC George Smith made Feb 15 at 2017 9:14 PM

2017-02-15T21:14:09-05:00

COS General John W. Vessey Jr. in 1985

Response by Cpl Joshua Caldwell made Feb 15 at 2017 9:20 PM

2017-02-15T21:20:59-05:00

My old partner gave me one from the 75 Ranger Battalion. The coolest ones I have ever seen were SEAL Team 6 Squadron coins, but they are not mine.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 15 at 2017 11:51 PM

2017-02-15T23:51:43-05:00

I got the coin from the 16th MP BDE (ABN) we said that you could use it as a plate in a pinch.

Response by CPT Andrew Wright made Feb 16 at 2017 12:25 AM

2017-02-16T00:25:20-05:00

Got these three in Iraq. The one on the lower left has the best story. I was working in the motor pool one day and the CSM for all the Army forces in Iraq came by to visit the unit, however, the whole unit was on a convoy that day with just a few of us behind repairing vehicles. Everybody in the motor pool got a coin.

Response by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 16 at 2017 12:33 AM

2017-02-16T00:33:50-05:00

If it can't open a beer, then what good is it? Mess coin from my last ship USS Mustin (DDG-89):

Response by SSgt Jim Gilmore made Feb 16 at 2017 12:49 AM

2017-02-16T00:49:07-05:00

The one that means most to me is one I received while working for FedEx in Seoul during 2001-2002. I was a certified dangerous goods specialist assigned to the FedEx sort facility at Incheon IAP. One of our biggest shippers was then the 6th Cav at Camp (Humpy) Humphries. They were having issues getting certain haz mat in and out without having paperwork and container SNAFUs. I was requested to come out and train their personnel in proper packaging and documentation of haz mat. I was quite honored to be given a challenge coin from them before I returned stateside. I was USAF...

Response by SSG Laurie Mullen made Feb 16 at 2017 1:36 AM

2017-02-16T01:36:38-05:00

I Corps Commander's coin for a dog and pony communications show on Ft Lewis for some officer's training that was taking place on post. I also received an "Atta Girl" letter from the Battalion Commander for the same event.

Response by Capt Seid Waddell made Feb 16 at 2017 2:48 AM

2017-02-16T02:48:44-05:00

Did these exist in the 1960's and'70's?

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 18 at 2017 9:31 AM

2017-02-18T09:31:07-05:00

My first coin was given to me by Major General Michael Wehr for being one of the volunteered cadets to be part of a detail crew for his promotion ceremony.

Response by Sam Carter made Mar 28 at 2017 3:32 PM

2017-03-28T15:32:17-04:00

My most memorable coin was given to me by a Marine who served at the American Embassy in Baghdad. Pretty big deal. He said he had it made at challengecoins4u.com

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made Mar 28 at 2017 4:47 PM

2017-03-28T16:47:41-04:00

The Maritime Administration "awarded" me a coin in 2006 for a briefing and visit I did to their Headquarters explaining a USTRANSCOM exercise program for MARAD ships. Also visited the Cape Fear. Most memorable was from the Deputy Commanding General, Military Surface Deployment and Distribution Command (SDDC) for a series of senior exercise controller briefings during a Joint Exercise in 2008.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 28 at 2017 7:00 PM

2017-03-28T19:00:59-04:00

I received my most memorable coin accompanied by an extremely eulogistic speech couple weeks ago from a 2 star in front of my leadership right after they belittled cadets for about 5 long minutes and explained how useless we are because we couldn't deploy. Priceless.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 16 at 2018 12:00 AM

2018-10-16T00:00:35-04:00

2nd Inf DMZ challenge coin, was given to me 1973 by the 1st SGT 1/31 Inf. First and best coin.

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 16 at 2018 12:09 PM

2018-10-16T12:09:46-04:00

Sailed with MSSG-24 92-94. I don't recall challenge coins yet, but I was on the go a lot.

Response by Maj John Bell made Jan 21 at 2021 5:39 AM

2021-01-21T05:39:55-05:00

OK. I have to ask, because I see this stuff about challenge coins. Never heard of them when I was on active duty [Samuel Nicholas just gave us a free beer if we happened by Tun Tavern]. What's the skinny on challenge coins? When did they start? Why did they start?

Back When General Vesey CJS, he visited us at Marine Barracks Bangor. He spent about an hour with Charlie Company while we performed a security mission. At the end he called his aide over. The aide opened a brief case and handed me a zippo lighter with the CJS logo on it. I didn't smoke so I gave it to the Company Gunny. Was that a predecessor to the challenge coin?

Response by SFC Melvin Brandenburg made Jan 21 at 2021 2:09 PM

2021-01-21T14:09:35-05:00

I didn't recognize the army chief of staff when I saw a general in my DFAC kitchen without headgear at my DFAC when deployed to Afghanistan. I was adamant, but tactful, that he don his headgear. My commander was with him. I got a coin from the chief of staff.

Response by MSG Jesse Molinar made Jan 22 at 2021 7:07 PM

2021-01-22T19:07:49-05:00

My most memorable was from SMA Kidd, while I was a young soldier. Had the opportunity to have lunch with him in Panama.

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made Dec 19 at 2021 6:46 AM

2021-12-19T06:46:38-05:00

My first coin was in 1983, I won the Iron Man competition in the Division. My most memorable is from the then Commander of NATO for my work in aiding in the development of NCO Corps amongst former Eastern European Military’s, 2010. They are all memorable.