Challenge coins honor Veterans at Oklahoma City VA

Connection through tradition 

A Veteran settles into their seat on a VTS shuttle, expecting a short ride from the parking lot to the entrance of Oklahoma City VA Medical Center. Behind the wheel is Richard Edwards, a U.S. Army Veteran and shuttle driver. 

As they pull up to the entrance, Edwards thanks the Veteran for their service and wishes them well in their appointment, with something extra in his palm. The Veteran’s eyes widen in surprise as Edwards quietly passes them a challenge coin. 

That Veteran was Kathy Register, a 7-year U.S. Air Force Veteran. “It means a lot to receive a challenge coin from my VA health care system,” she said. “It shows me you care about the Veterans by making sure we have transportation to get our medical needs.” 

A symbol of appreciation 

Challenge coins bear an organization’s insignia and are often given to recognize service, mark a special achievement or build camaraderie.  

The tradition is tied to respect from a commander or peer, and coins are most often presented in a handshake, passed discreetly from palm to palm so the recipient feels the weight before they see it. 

For many service members, receiving a coin is a personal and memorable moment that can symbolize acceptance, trust or appreciation from the giver. 

A gift made possible by a fellow Veteran 

Edwards began by distributing personal challenge coins he had received during his service. 

When a Vietnam Veteran, who had never received a challenge coin himself, got one from Edwards and learned its backstory, he made a $4,000 private donation to purchase 700 coins.  

The gift ensured that Veterans across Oklahoma City VA could experience the same sense of appreciation he felt when he got his first coin from Edwards. 

Keeping the tradition alive 

Edwards follows military custom when presenting a coin. It rests in his hand during a handshake, accompanied by a simple “thank you for your service.” For Vietnam Veterans, he adds one more phrase: “Welcome home.” 

He designed the coins with the support of TaKeshia Trevino, chief of Veterans Transportation Services. 

“The challenge coins were made with love and true meaning,” Trevino said. “It’s an additional way for us to express our gratitude for our Veterans.” 

A simple gesture with lasting impact 

VTS staff are still handing out coins in the lobby, during rides and to Veterans who might need a lift in spirits, with plenty left to give 

“It leads to conversations, memories and sometimes a needed laugh,” Trevino said. “I hope when Veterans interact with our team, they leave in better spirits and with a much-deserved challenge coin. We’re just making sure our Veterans continue feeling appreciated long after their ride is over.”

Jesus Flores is a writer and editor on the VISN 19 Creative Task Force and a Marine Corps Veteran