Description
Our 4th Marine Air Wing Coin salutes the 4th Marine Aircraft Wing of the U.S.M.C. Struck in a brass alloy, this coin has an attractive use of enamel, making a striking impression. The reverse contains the logo of the Marines set in a semitransparent red enamel that allows the look of radiance.
The 4th Marine Base Defense Aircraft Wing was commissioned Aug. 22, 1942, at Ewa, Hawaii. The Wing’s three squadrons were located at Midway, Ewa and Samoa with the headquarters at Ewa. In the fall of 1944, the 4th Marine Base Defense Aircraft Wing became the 4th Marine Aircraft Wing (4th MAW). As the war progressed across the Pacific, 4th MAW pilots refined fighter bombing and low-altitude flying techniques. The Wing combined with the proven ability of Marine infantrymen to form an effective and devastating team and paved the way for today’s air/ground team concept.
When the Korean War broke out, a force of 6,035 men who trained at 25 Marine Air Detachments from coast to coast, the Marine Air Reserve was prepared for rapid mobilization to Korea.
As turmoil developed in the Dominican Republic and U.S. involvement in Southeast Asia increased during the mid-sixties, the necessity of having a ready force in reserve became more apparent. Emphasis was shifted to the 4th MAW and in July 1966, a reorganization was under taken to ensure that all units were prepared to execute the same missions and tasks as assigned in the regular Fleet Marine Force.
During Operations Desert Shield/Storm, numerous units were mobilized and deployed to the Gulf Region. These units provided air support which contributed to the victory of allied forces.
4th Marine Air Wing USMC Challenge Coin Features
- 4th Marine Air Wing Coin
- Measures 1.75″
- Professionally & individually packaged
- Made in the U.S.A.
- Licensed by the United States Marine Corps
Marine Corps Challenge Coins
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.
