A challenge coin is a small coin or medallion, bearing an organizations insignia or emblem and carried by the organizations members. They are given to prove membership when challenged and to enhance morale. The history of the challenge coin dates back to World War I military aviators.
To receive a challenge coin from a person or an organization is an honor. The gift is a token of appreciation from the giver to the recipient. The gift of a challenge coin embodies a tradition through the actual giving
The Tradition of Giving a Challenge Coin:
The giver places the coin in the palm of their hand and extends his/her hand out to the recipient to shake their hand in the customary manner of greeting.
The giver does not make the gift known; the entire act is done in a very inconspicuous manner.
As the two shake each others hand in greeting, the giver gives the coin to the recipient. This can be done by shifting the weight of the coin into the palm of the recipients hand is a quiet, graceful manner.
As the recipient releases his/her hand from the handshake receive the coin.
The Challenge Coin Rules for an Actual Challenge (Purpose)
Firmly place it on the bar, table, or floor (this should produce an audible noise which can be easily heard by those being challenged, but try not to leave a permanent imprint). If you accidentally drop your coin and it makes an audible sound upon impact, then you have just “accidentally” initiated a coin check. (This is called paying the price for improper care of your coin).
The response consists of all those persons being challenged drawing their coin in a like manner.
If you are challenged and are unable to properly respond, you must buy a round of drinks for the challenger and the group being challenged.
If everyone being challenged responds in the correct manner, the challenger must buy a round of drinks for all those people they challenged.
Failure to buy a round is a despicable crime and will require that you turn-in your coin to the issuing age.
Connecticut Patriot Guard Riders (Patriot Guard Riders of CT, Inc.) Challenge Coin
Connecticut Patriot Guard Riders took great pride in creating a challenge coin that is merely not a coin, but holds a vast amount of symbolism. Each side is an attempt to convey strength, commitment, and respect.
The strength to stand for those who stood for us.
The commitment to do the right thing because it is the right thing to do.
The unwavering respect we hold for those who risk their very lives for Americas freedom and security to honor.
Connecticut Patriot Guard Riders (Patriot Guard Riders of CT, Inc.) Challenge Coin Symbolism
Front Side:
American Flag – Staged right
State of Connecticut Flag- Staged left
Flying Eagle for Freedom
Two tone Gold and White represent Strength & Unity
Standing For Those Who Stood for Us – PGR Mission statement
The Diamond Cut Edge represents that the PGR Always Moving Forward.
Back Side:
Connecticut Patriot Guard
Silhouette of Soldier Saluting the American Flag
On either side of the Silhouette of the Soldier are three stars:
Gold representing families of KIAs (Killed in Action)
Silver representing those who are actively serving and are risking their very lives for our Americas freedom and security
Blue representing families of actively serving military
Semper Praesto meaning “Always Ready to Serve”