History

The tradition of “Challenge Coin” originated during battles in World War I. Brave American volunteers had formed flying squadrons. Each member of one of these squadrons had a solid bronze medallion produced by the squadron’s high society lieutenant. One member of this squadron escaped from German captivity and was found by the French. The French were about to execute the American not knowing he was a friend or foe. But the bronze squadron medallion worn by the American was recognized by one of the French and the American flyer’s life was spared.

During & after World War I, a tradition began to ensure that members carried their coin at all times. This goal was pursued by having a member challenge another member to show the coin. If the challenged could not show the coin, the challenged had to buy a drink of choice for the challenger. If the challenged could show a coin, the challenger had to buy the drink. For many years after World War I, surviving members kept this tradition alive.