Each graduation ceremony since 2010, graduates have been handed a Challenge Coin by their principal. This tradition arose from a rich history:
In the Bomber flying squadron, one lieutenant ordered solid bronze medallions embossed with his squadron emblem for every member. He carried his medallion in a small leather pouch about his neck.
His aircraft was severely damaged by ground fire during a mission. He was forced to land behind enemy lines where he was captured. In order to discourage his escape, they took all of his personal identification except for the small leather pouch around his neck.
He was eventually taken to a small town near the front lines where he managed to escape during a night bombardment. During the attack, he donned civilian clothes and fled without personal identification. After escaping, the brave pilot succeeded in avoiding enemy patrols until he reached the front lines. With great difficulty, he crossed no-man's land and stumbled into a friendly outpost.
Unfortunately, the soldiers in this sector had been plagued by enemy saboteurs, who sometimes masqueraded as civilians. Not recognizing the young pilot's American accent, the allies thought him to be a saboteur and made ready to execute him. He showed his medallion to his would-be executioners. When the captors recognized the squadron insignia, they gave the pilot enough time to confirm his identity and returned the pilot to his squadron, where it became a tradition to ensure all members carried their coin at all times.
This tradition continued through the war for many years after. Today, military service members often trade these coins while deployed. The history of the challenge coin remains a part of the military tradition. This tradition has spread to non-military organizations including law enforcement, security and others.
As our students graduate from Kenston High School, we are proud to present them with our version of the Challenge Coin. The principles we were founded on remains true today and are carried around the globe. Each year the coin design is developed from the unique point in time being celebrated. This year's 2018 coin captured the essence of this class and their "voice" as well as the Solar Eclipse.
