Observing The Past With Challenge Coins
Photo by: Chad Madden @ Unsplash

Observing The Past With Challenge Coins

Once a year, we honor those who gave all for their country

On the last Monday in May, we honor those who have died while serving in the United States Armed Forces. Memorial Day is a day for celebrating and remembering those who have given their lives for our freedom.

People observe Memorial Day with special ceremonies and honor soldiers in their own unique ways. Several traditions and events take place to honor those who have sacrificed everything for the freedoms we enjoy. Creating a custom Memorial Day challenge coin is a novel way to recognize soldiers and their sacrifice. These commemorative coins are exceptional keepsakes that recipients can display and carry with pride. 

Celebrating Active Duty Members and Veterans

Memorial Day is a day to respect those who have died while serving in the armed forces. It's an important day for both active duty members and veterans. Challenge coins are a staple for anyone who has served in the military. They are a reminder of one’s hard work and loyalty. Memorial Day is a day of reflection, but it’s also a day to honor the present. Challenge coins are tangible tokens that hold significant meaning for soldiers, past and present. They are a distinguished display of gratitude for those who continue to sacrifice everything for our freedom.

Memorial Day History

Memorial Day was originally known as Decoration Day, a day of remembrance for the Civil War. World War I and World War II transformed the day into a generalized day of remembrance. Decoration Day was observed on May 30 from 1868 to 1970. In 1971, Congress changed the observance to the last Monday in May and standardized Memorial Day as we know it.

Parades, parties, and other celebrations take place across the country on Memorial Day. One of the most reverent traditions is the ceremonial placing of a wreath by the President at the Tomb of the Unknowns in Arlington National Cemetery. Religious services, parades, and speeches also celebrate the day. Other notable celebrations include the National Memorial Day Parade in Washington DC, Chicago's Memorial Day Parade, and Fleet Week in New York City. 

Commemoration

People across the country commemorate Memorial Day with different traditions. For instance, volunteers place American flags on the graves of military personnel in national cemeteries. These decoration practices are localized and can be unique to individual families, cemeteries, and communities. These traditions entail placing flowers, coins, and other memorial items on graves. Decorations may also incorporate other personal items significant to the person who sets the decoration and the deceased. The presentation of challenge coins is another excellent way to commemorate Memorial Day and loved ones who have passed away. These small tokens are the perfect way to pay homage to those who gave all. Get creative and design something that will be remembered and looked at fondly in the future.

A Design To Remember

A Memorial Day coin should be memorable and remarkable. It should also tell a story. Many Memorial Day coins feature emblems of specific branches of the armed forces and other elements that relate to the recipient. These may be squadron logos, dates of missions, or even the names of fallen comrades. A memorable coin is a great gift for the family members of soldiers, active-duty troops, and veterans.

Memorial Day is a special day for those who have lost loved ones serving in the military. With a long history that started in the military, challenge coins are a brilliant way to memorialize those who gave all. Find out more about designing the perfect challenge coin here.


Jesse Daugherty

Jesse Daugherty

Blogger

Hello, I'm Jesse Daugherty, a music enthusiast, sports aficionado, and an avid supporter of the arts. I'm a writer and content creator. For the past 5 years, I've shared my knowledge of custom challenge coins and other promotional products, exploring their designs, meaning, and purpose.