Here is a custom police coin we made for a Police Department Motorcycle Unit and a State level Highway safety council to promote Motorcycle safety at an event. The design was based on their uniform pins the unit wears. This beautiful 3D eagle shaped coin features Shiny gold and black Nickel Plating, a special kind of enamel paint and other stunning details. It measures 3″ wide x approx 1 5/8″ tall. The black nickel plating on the 3D wheel of the motorcycle really ‘pops! What do you guys think?

PD Motorcycle Unit Eagle Shape Bike safe custom police coin by Phoenix Challenge CoinsPD Motorcycle Unit Eagle Shape Bike safe custom police coin back side by Phoenix Challenge Coins

*Admin note: As many of our regular readers may know we’re quite passionate about authentic challenge coin collecting and writing about this passion and helping fellow collectors as much as possible.

I recently had the pleasure to be acquainted with a fellow collector who is as passionate as we are; and I invited him to do a guest blog post here. Below is the excellent and very thorough article he researched and wrote. I look forward to welcoming him and more of his articles here on our blog page and we hope you enjoy this post! You can read my article I wrote for his blog here: http://commanderschallenge.wordpress.com/2013/04/25/marsoc-cultural-support-team-custom-unit-coin/

<a href=https:// plus.google.com/u/0/109491127418237359553/posts?rel=author>Phoenix Challenge Coins on Google+</a>

Special Operations Task Force – Central Challenge Coin (Ver.1) Circa 2010-11
Brian 24 March 2013 www.commanderschallenge.wordpress.com

Since the 2003 US involvement in Iraq, Special Operations Forces (SOF) had a long history in theatre of working closely with indigenous security forces. From operations pursuing insurgent forces, mentoring elite counter terror units, or coordinating tribal and civil improvement programs SOF elements were at the tip of the spear. [1][2] Coordinating the SOF efforts in Iraq was the Special Operations Task Force – Central (SOTF-C), a temporary sub-command under the Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force – Arabian Peninsula (CJSOTF-AP).  [3]

Between 2008 and 2011 predominantly elements of the 10^th Special Forces Group (SFG) were assigned to the SOTF-C, headquartered in the Iraqi capital of Baghdad and were responsible for SOF operations throughout southern Iraq. During that time SOTF-C earned multiple citations to include several Meritorious Unit Citations in;

“Exhibiting selfless service, determination, and esprit-de-corps by blending both lethal and non-lethal means into a comprehensive approach to defeat insurgent efforts. The unit’s actions paved the way for Foreign Internal Defense, Advanced Special Operations, Direct Action, Military Information Support Operations, Civil Military Operations and Iraqi Special Forces expansion” for both Operation Iraqi Freedom and New Dawn. [3][4]

However, the unit’s mentorship of the budding Iraqi forces against the national insurgency did come at a cost. Often elements of SOTF-C and its mentored units, such as the Iraqi Special Operations Forces (ISOF), Emergency Response Brigade (ERB), and Al Hillah SWAT would conduct high-risk operations. On July 27^th, 2009 as part of the transition to Iraqi sovereignty, the mentored ISOF and Counter Terrorism Forces served an evidence-driven warrant for arrest when the Iraqi unit sustained casualties. [5] Demonstrating the bond between mentor and mentee at the memorial service, attending members of the CJSOTF-AP and SOTF-C offered words of remembrance sacrifice. LTC James M. Higgins with CJSOTF-AP said,

“They paid the ultimate price for their nation [Iraq]. We will always remember them and the sacrifice they, and so many of our men, have made.”

By mid 2011, SOTF-C was nearing the end of its duties in theatre as part of Operation New Dawn. A significant part of the drawdown included many of bases supporting SOTF-C had begun to close, making the SOTF-C mission of mentoring and transition ever more difficult – and dangerous. As equipment was made in excess due to these closures, SOTF-C would reallocate the resources to other bases enabling the SOF elements to remain in the fight and further the partnership with their Iraqi counterparts ahead of transition. SOTF–C forces continued to mitigate the operational impact of the drawdown by coordinating with adjacent units as they thinned and consolidated their lines, became more expeditionary and reduced their logistics footprint to be more agile. [6] By November 2011 US forces in Iraq had predominantly been returned to their home garrisons and SOTF-C was then folded back into the CJSOTF-AP structure and by December that same year the command was discontinued.

The SOTF-C challenge coin has undergone a number of evolutions during the unit’s involvement in Iraq. Featured is the first version of the 2010-11 SOTF-C challenge coins during Operation Iraqi Freedom and the initial year of Operation New Dawn. A moderation of the previous “Punisher” skull coin, the 2010 SOTF-C challenge coin was initially only 1.5” in height and irregularly shaped. By 2011 a second version of this coin demonstrated its popularity as the coin was increased to 2” and then added to include a serialized number. This variant of the SOTF-C challenge coin was the last to represent the unit before its withdrawal and realignment of the command.

Obverse

Special Operations Task Force – Central Challenge Coin (Ver.1)

Unique to challenge coins, the Obverse of the SOTF 2010-11 challenge coin reflects the personal view of the SOF community whom often jokingly refer to themselves as “snake eaters”. Demonstrating this symbolism the Obverse features, in full color and epoxy seal, a flesh-toned skull (much like the previous “Punisher” version) wearing the Special Forces Green Beret with “De Oppresso Liber” flash. Behind the skull is a silver dagger often associated to special operations and often taken to represents the “straight and true” qualities that forge an SF member. Coiled around both the dagger and skull, from bottom to top, is a dark-green rattlesnake in a strike posture.

Reverse

Special Operations Task Force – Central Challenge Coin (Ver.1) Back side

Illustrating the participating units and history of the SOTF-C, the Reverse demonstrates multiple levels of symbolism. In the foreground are the unit crests of former participating elements within the SOTF-C command. These include the US Special Forces “De Oppresso Liber” flash, US Navy SEAL crest, Iraqi ERB, and ISOF. Behind these elements is the larger crest of the 10^th SFG (for which SOTF-C was commanded by) featuring the Trojan horse, shield, and Airborne wings. [7] At the top of the Reverse is a green scroll in yellow border reading “SOTF-C” while at the bottom black text reads “Presented for Excellence”.  Also on the bottom of the Reverse the later and larger versions of the SOTF-C 2010-11 challenge coin features a small three-digit serial number enclosed in a highlighted box.

Previous Versions

As noted, the SOTF-C challenge coin has seen a number of evolutions. From its initial minting as a representation of the 10^th SFG crest, two circular designs, and a unique epoxy enclosed “Punisher” skull, the development of these coins has remained exclusive to the unit’s history and consistent to the unique partnership with the Iraqi security force, ISOF and ERB.

Works Cited

1. SGT Ledesma, Jeff. Special Forces, local tribal leaders set tracks to stimulate economic growth in agricultural district. Department of Defense. May 30, 2009. http://www.dvidshub.net/news/34325/special-forces-local-tribal-leaders…t-tracks-stimulate-economic-growth-agricultural-district#.UUvKvxwpWcw  (accessed March 20, 2013).

2. —. U.S. Special Forces leave lasting impact on ISOF counter-terrorism force. Department of Defense. August 4, 2009. http://www.dvidshub.net/news/37134/us-special-forces-leave-lasting-impact-isof-counter-terrorism-force (accessed March 15, 2013).

3. Department of the Army. “Meritorious Unit Commendation.” Permanent Orders 347-07, Awards and Decorations Branch, U.S. Army Human Resources Command, 2010, 2.

4. Department of the Army. “Meritorious Unit Commendation.” Permanent Orders 061-04, Awards and Decorations Branch, U.S. Army Human Resources Command, 2012, 2.

5. SGT Ledesma, Jeffery A. Iraqi Soldiers’ sacrifices honored with silence, a stillness heard throughout the brigade. Department of Defense. August 19, 2009. http://www.army.mil/article/25777/Iraqi_Soldiers__039__sacrifices_honored_with_silence__a_stillness_heard_throughout_the_brigade/ (accessed March 20, 2013).

6. MAJ Craig, Thomas B. “Supporting a Special Operations Task Force During the Withdrawal From Iraq.” Army Sustainment. Army Sustainment Command. March 2012. http://www.almc.army.mil/alog/issues/MarApril12/Supporting_Special_Operations.html (accessed March 2013, 21).

7. USASFC. 10th SFG(A) Lineage. 2013. http://www.soc.mil/USASFC/10thSFGA/10th%20SFG%20Lineage.html (accessed March 3, 2013).

8. Mosier, Duane L. “The Road to Al Amarah: Operation Yarborough and U.S. Army Special Forces in Southern Iraq .” Small Wars Journal. Small Wars Foundation. November 4, 2010. smallwarsjournal.com/blog/journal/docs-temp/593-mosier.pdf (accessed March 4, 2013).

9. SPC Hatton, William. SF Soldiers having some fun with the Carl Gustav. Shadow Spear. May 11, 2009. http://www.shadowspear.com/vb/threads/sf-soldiers-having-some-fun-with-the-carl-gustav.3876/ (accessed March 15, 2013).

10. SSG Franks, Bryan. U.S. Military Special Forces Soldiers train, coach premiere police force in Iraq. Blackanthem.com. March 4, 2009. http://www.blackanthem.com/News/U_S_Military_19/Special-Forces-Soldiers-train-coach-premiere-police-force-in-Iraq (accessed March 20, 2013).

Coordination provided by LTC Dave Connolly, Director of Public Affairs, US Army Special Operations Command

About the Author: Brian has long been an avid admirer of challenge coins. Since first enlisting as an Infantryman in the US Army in 1998, his first coin was presented to him by his BDE Commander in Korea for excellence in an FTX, which instilled in him the value of these unique awards. Brian would rise become a Non-Commissioned Officer and go on to serve in the Army until 2006; and as of today has deployed to Iraq three times and Afghanistan three more, for a total of over three years in overseas deployment time. Brian continues to work for the government (albeit in a much more mundane capacity) and recently began his own blog 

A well-made challenge coin is a true work of art and is meant to be treasured forever and passed down from generation to generation. Challenge coins are the perfect gift to show your gratitude for service or to honor a veteran. They also make excellent tokens for firefighters, policemen and emergency workers. Some people even choose to honor friends and families who have survived cancer with a beautiful token to symbolize their bravery. There’s really no wrong occasion to show your reverence and appreciation with challenge coins.

Custom Challenge Coins : The Air Force Challenge Coin

Air Force challenge coins are made specifically for the proud members of the U.S. Air Force to show appreciation for a job well done or as a symbol of camaraderie. The U.S. Air Force was the first branch of the military to use challenge coins. Air force coins continue to be popular in the force, but the challenge coin has gained popularity among other branches of the military and with heroes in police and fire departments.

Show Appreciation and Respect with a Military Challenge Coin

A great military challenge coin is meant to be given with the highest honors. When looking for a military challenge coin for sale, you should find one that is designed with impressive artistry, made of high quality materials and one that can be personalized to fit your needs. After all, a military challenge coin will likely be passed down as a memento to future generations, so it’s important it is of the best quality. A high-quality military challenge coin is the perfect complement for an honor service or as a gift to commemorate years served in the military. Challenge unit coins can be created for Army, Navy, Marines, National Guard, Coast Guard and the Air Force. Pre-made designs are available to choose from or you can design your own military challenge coin.

Honor Everyday Heroes with a Fire Coin

They may not be on the front lines, but first responders are on the front line of every disaster and a fire coin is the perfect way to honor their heroism and show support. When other rush out from danger, it’s the firefighter, policemen and emergency workers that rush in. It’s hard to put your appreciation for their bravery into words and that’s why challenge coins are the best way to express your gratitude. Police challenge coins can be presented to honor a retiring officer or to recognize a specific act of bravery. Fire coins are the perfect way to honor firefighters who put their life on the line on a daily basis and can be personalized with a firefighter’s city and name.

Since challenge coins are bestowed with the highest honor, they should be made from the highest quality materials and crafted with the utmost of care. It’s easy to find a military challenge coin for sale, but it is important that you make sure you are purchasing from a reputable dealer. Phoenix Challenge Coins creates only the highest-quality challenge coins for military members, first responders and to honor your personal heroes. Visit our web site today to view our beautiful designs of create a challenge coin of your own.