Description
Our USMC Parris Island License Plate Coin has the look and feel of genuine quality and would make a great addition to your challenge coin collection or as a special gift for your U.S. Marine. Arrives professionally & individually packaged. Made in USA.
Parris Island Marine Corps License Plate Challenge Coin Features
- Marine Corps Parris Island License Plate Coin
- “While I Breathe, I Hope – South Carolina – Parris Island” on the front of coin.
- “United States Marine Corps” and the coveted Eagle Globe and Anchor on the back of coin.
- Accented in bold colors.
- Measures approximately 1.25″ width x 2.5″ height
- Individually packaged
- Made in USA
- Ships fast!
- Licensed by the U.S. Marine Corps.
Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island – MCRD PI
Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island (MCRD PI) is a military installation within Port Royal, South Carolina. It’s approximately 5 miles south of Beaufort. This depot plays a crucial role in the United States Marine Corps Recruit Training for enlisted Marines, primarily those residing east of the Mississippi River.
MCRD PI’s history traces back to European exploration and colonization attempts. Jean Ribault led a French Huguenot expedition in 1562, marking the first European settlement attempt on the island. Subsequently, the Spanish established Santa Elena in 1566, which was later abandoned. The English took control in the 1700s, eventually passing into the hands of Colonel Alexander Parris, lending the island its current name.
Marine Corps presence on Parris Island began in 1891 with a small security detachment. The construction of military facilities accelerated, forming the core of the present-day historic district. Officially designated as a Recruit Depot in 1915, it became a pivotal site for Marine training, particularly during World Wars and the Korean and Vietnam conflicts.
Today, MCRD Parris Island is renowned for its rigorous 13-week recruit training program, emphasizing physical fitness, combat readiness, and Marine Corps values. The depot has been training female Marines since 1949 and continues to play an essential role in shaping the future of the Marine Corps.
MCRD Parris Island has also permeated popular culture, depicted in films like “The D.I.” and Stanley Kubrick’s “Full Metal Jacket.”
The USMC Challenge Coin
Marine Corps challenge coins are deeply rooted in military tradition. They symbolize honor, camaraderie, and individual accomplishments in the USMC.
Military challenge coins trace their roots back to ancient Rome, where custom coins rewarded exceptional feats. They later evolved into “portrait medals” during the Renaissance.
In the early US military, challenge coins were exclusive to high-ranking officers recognizing exceptional achievements. Notably, in World War I, a pilot’s coin saved his life by proving his identity. Some argue that modern challenge coin traditions, including in the Marine Corps, originated during the Vietnam War for bar entry.
Today, these coins signify specific achievements or service excellence and carry sentimental value, serving as tokens of significant moments in a Marine’s journey.
Marine Coin Check, Traditions, and Rules
A coin check is a spontaneous challenge where members must promptly display their coins.
Rules for coin checks are informal, allowing challenges to occur anywhere, anytime, by displaying the coin and shouting “coin check!” Accidentally dropping a coin counts as a deliberate challenge. Responding within ten seconds by presenting a unit’s coin is essential.
Consequences add a playful element: failure to produce a coin results in buying drinks for the challenger and others. Conversely, a successful challenge requires the challenger to buy a round for the group.
The tradition also includes coin theft, with successful thieves earning a drink. Coins are typically carried for easy access, with a widely accepted rule of “a step and a reach.” Presentation often occurs subtly during handshakes, with modifications like drilling holes or attaching them to belt buckles invalidating their challenge status.
