In the heart of Valdosta, a small but meaningful tradition is quietly waiting to be discovered — the art of challenge coins. As a veteran who has carried these metallic memories through recent years, I’ve realized that these coins are more than just commemorative tokens; they are personal narratives of service, achievement, and community.
Recently, I shared a few of my challenge coins with Mr. Kevin Hall, the editor of the Valdosta Daily Times newspaper. It was clear this was a new experience for him. This interaction sparked a reflection on our community’s rich military heritage and the importance of preserving these traditions.
My journey with challenge coins did not begin with my time in the Marine Corps. Starting as a private, I progressed through the ranks—to private first class, then lance corporal, and ultimately reaching the rank of corporal (E-4) in a military police unit at Camp Pendleton, California. During my service as a military police officer, we didn’t have badges but used red armbands that signified the authority of a two-star general, the commanding officer of our base.

One of my challenge coins is that of a Marine Corps corporal, a most unusual level to present a challenge coin, and another with a Marine Corps designation and a military police badge. We did not wear badges during my years of service, 1970-1973, and we also did not have challenge coins during those years. I wish we had both, so I am mildly jealous.
Last year, I was honored to receive two significant challenge coins. During my graduation from the City of Valdosta’s Government 101 Citizen Orientation Program, Mayor Scott James Matheson and City Manager Richard Hardy presented me with the mayor’s challenge coin. 

During the same week, upon completing the Valdosta Police Department’s Citizens Police Academy, I received a challenge coin from Valdosta Police Chief Leslie Manahan. Both coins are not just metal and beautiful designs but symbols of personal achievement and community connection. I am thrilled to be in ownership of both coins. I greatly respect our city and county officials, and I know we are fortunate to have them as they are all dedicated public servants.
However, I’ve discovered a missed opportunity in our local county government. After speaking with county staff, I learned that County Manager Page Dukes and Chairman of the County Commissioners Bill Slaughter do not currently issue challenge coins. This feels like an oversight in a military town like Valdosta, blessed to be the home of Moody Air Force Base.
Challenge coins are more than mere collectibles. They are moments frozen in metal, memories that people cherish and remember. When someone receives a challenge coin, they receive a piece of metal, a story, a moment of recognition, a tangible piece of history.
To my fellow military veterans, community leaders, and coin enthusiasts, I encourage you to share your challenge coins and introduce others to this rich tradition. Meet with local leaders, share your stories, and help spread awareness about these powerful symbols of service and achievement.
In Valdosta and Lowndes County, we have a unique opportunity to celebrate our military heritage and community spirit — one challenge coin at a time.

Oh, and I am confident that Mr. Kevin Hall, the editor of the Valdosta Daily Times newspaper, would be delighted to receive more challenge coins from our active duty and retired military residing here in Valdosta, Lowndes County, and South Georgia. 

Burton Fletcher, JD, MBA, is a writer, freelance columnist, community advocate, servant leader, retired full professor of business administration, managing attorney of Burton Fletcher Injury Law Group, and founder, president, and executive director of the Burton Fletcher Foundation for Animals.