Military challenge coins are among the most treasured and prized recognition a Soldier, Sailor, Airman or Marine can receive. Katie Lange of the Defense Media Activity describes challenge coins as, “an American military tradition for a century, meant to instill unit pride, improve esprit de corps and reward hard work and excellence.” [1] Military challenge coins are steeped in legend and lore, but what is the hard truth behind their origins?
One of my personal favorite stories is that it originated with a Lieutenant in the Army Air Service during the First World War. I’ve heard two versions of this story, which exists only as an oral tradition.
The Spanish-American War has an interesting role in the greater scope of the American experience. The Civil War was a generational conflict, defining multiple citizen’s experience of conflict. Entire towns were virtually emasculated as their sons and fathers died by the scores. The Spanish-American War though, was by comparison short and relatively bloodless. The impact of the Spanish-American War on society was influential, providing the children of Union and Confederate soldiers to fight side by side.
The Things We Leave Behind 