Buying Challenge Coins Help Wounded Veterans

JACKSONVILLE, FL -- Challenge coins have been around since the first World War as a source of pride for military and law enforcement. But there's a new coin available that is much different from naming a certain platoon or specific military branch.

It is a challenge coin to be given by regular folks to veterans or active duty military as a way to say thank you.

Founder of GratefulAmericanCoin.org Deb Benson describes the coins.

"They have all five branches: Army, Navy, Air-Force, Marine and Coast Guard on one side and it says, To a member of our armed forces and on the other side it has the American flag with an Eagle and it says, Thank you for your service, from a Grateful American."

Benson and her husband started the non-profit as a way to give back to those who have fought for our freedom.

"Especially the Vietnam Veterans who weren't shown that appreciation back when they were returning home."

Guys like Jacksonville's Dave Key, a proud former U.S. Marine, presented with one of the coins Thursday.

"That's pretty cool! I see you've got the Marine Corps in the right place, in the middle!"

American Legion Post 88 member and Navy Veteran Benny Combs says GratefulAmericanCoin.org is a morale booster for veterans.

"It's a great program. Like I said, it goes to help the vets. And if you hand a service member this coin or just a shake of the hand, it does tremendous for the vet!"

In its first 11 1/2 months, GratefulAmericanCoin.org was able to present more than $22,000 to wounded veteran organizations such as America's Vet Dogs, which provides guide dogs to our wounded veterans, and the Special Operations Warrior Foundation, which provides immediate financial assistance, and also supports children of the fallen with college educations.

GratefulAmericanCoin.org was founded on December 1 of last year. And Deb Benson and her husband were hoping to sell 10,000 coins by next week. They are just short of their goal.

"December 1 will be our first anniversary and we've sold 9,377 coins as of today!" said Benson, who adds that her heart is with every coin she buys herself to hand to a service member or veteran.

"Because after I give the coin I thank them, and I always end the same, which is, From a grateful American to a hero. Thank you!"

You can find the organization's website by clicking here.

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