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There are many ways to implement a challenge coin within your department or organization. Here are some programs our customers have told us about:
The Mint Hill Police Department utilizes an effective program in regards to receiving a challenge coin. I have challenged all members of our department to be on the look out for other members doing the right thing at the right time. When I receive a nomination about a good deed I issue a letter of appreciation. If an officer receives two letters of appreciation I then award them a challenge coin.
This has improved morale and has kindled an esprit de corps within the ranks as the officers vie for a challenge coin.
Chief Tim W. Ledford
Mint Hill Police Department
History of Dog Tags
During the Civil War, soldiers used various methods of tagging themselves for purposes of identification in the event of death on the battle field. Many wrote their names on paper tags and pinned them to their clothing. Some made tags out of wood with carved holes at the end to be worn as a necklace. Coins were also smoothed over and engraved with their name and unit number.
Metal military dog tags originated during World War I. Tags manufactured between 1941 and the early 1970′s had a notch in one end. It is a myth that the notch was used to wedge between the teeth of fallen soldiers. The notch was actually needed to keep the tag in place on the machine that was used to stamp the military personel’s surname (follwed by initials), service number, branch of service, blood type and religion (if desired by the individual). The process for stamping the tags has changed, and the notch is no longer needed.
