The Scuttlebutt | Season 9 Episode 3
In this episode of the Scuttlebutt, the host, Shaun Hall, along with Vietnam Navy veteran Donn Nemchick and young enthusiast Henry Schoepke discuss the history, stories, and significance of challenge coins. Challenge coins have an interesting history, originating back to World War I, where an American prisoner of war used a pressed bronze coin to escape execution by the French military. The coins are given to service members by high-ranking officers to commemorate specific missions or to connect with other veterans. They are also used as tools for recruitment, remembrance, and motivation. Challenge coins are not exclusive to the military, as they are also given to guests at the White House and used as promotional items.
Henry Schoepke, a passionate collector of autographs from veterans, shared stories of the challenge coins and autographs he has received. He talked about his collection of over 1,000 autographs, which initially focused on World War II veterans but later expanded to include Medal of Honor recipients and civil rights leaders. He uses websites like Star Tiger to find addresses of veterans and also shares experiences of receiving autographs from well-known veterans such as Medal of Honor recipient Peter C. Lemon and Holocaust survivor Michael Bornstein. Henry’s dedication to connecting with veterans and collecting their stories is inspiring and reflects his deep appreciation for their service.
Don Nemchick, a USS Constellation veteran, also shared his sentimental attachment to his challenge coin, which represents his service on the USS Constellation. He emphasized the pride and respect he holds for the USS Constellation and the supportive camaraderie of the veterans’ community. Additionally, the conversation touched on the etiquette of challenge coins, their diverse designs, and the importance of safeguarding collections.
The episode highlighted the impact of challenge coins in fostering camaraderie, recognizing service, and honoring veterans. It also showcased the power of storytelling and the unwavering dedication of individuals like Henry Sheepy in preserving the experiences of veterans through autographs and challenge coins.
In conclusion, the discussion emphasized the significance of challenge coins as meaningful tokens of appreciation, as well as the importance of preserving and sharing the stories of veterans. The episode offered insights into the world of challenge coins and showcased the passion and dedication of collectors like Henry Schoepke.
Henry’s letter in VBC Magazine – https://bit.ly/421Tw8v
Henry’s appearance on 15WMTV – https://bit.ly/48WZKbS
Challenge Coins Wiki – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Challen…
44-year veteran creates challenge coins to honor military members – https://youtu.be/Na2-PPT5xXI?si=R0VKP…
Thrift Store Finds Military Challenge Coins Large Lot Any Good Ones? – https://youtu.be/N-5mKIkZNms?si=-cmxE…
How to Practice Military Challenge Coin Etiquette – https://youtu.be/zc6_9TqmOfA?si=Hgx2J…
Order your own Challenge Coin from a Veteran-owned Business – www.medalsofamerica.com
Support this podcast:
Thank you to our sponsor: Tobacco Free Adagio Health: https://tobaccofree.adagiohealth.org/
The Scuttlebutt is now on Wreaths Across America Radio. You listen in any time with this live link: https://www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/…
To find out more information about the Veterans Breakfast Club and view our upcoming schedule of online and in-person events, visit our website at: http://www.veteransbreakfastclub.org/
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