Fifth Third Bank’s Military BRG Launches New Challenge Coin Recognition Program
Awarding military challenge coins has been part of the American military tradition for over a century. These coins were created to instill unit pride and fellowship, and to reward hard work and excellence. Historically, challenge coins were presented by unit commanders in recognition of unit members’ special achievements or in recognition of visits to various organizations.
“While the origin of the military challenge coin is up for debate, most would agree that we started seeing coins around World War I, with their popularity and usage growing during the Vietnam War,” said Josh Quantz, HR business partner at Fifth Third Bank and former co-chair of the Company’s Cincinnati Military Business Resource Group. “The coins are a large part of the military culture, and we wanted to create a program for our BRG to connect the Bank to this tradition.”
The Cincinnati Military BRG recently launched the Military BRG Challenge Coin program, allowing Military BRG leaders across the footprint to award a coin, and an accompanying Spirit of the Pin award, in acknowledgment of efforts related to the military or veterans. In regions that have a Multicultural BRG with a military focus, those leaders may also award coins. A Military BRG Challenge Coin can be awarded to any individual in the Bank.
“It’s a meaningful way to recognize those who go the extra mile to promote and grow the Military BRG and support our inclusive culture,” said Cheryl Lombardi, senior sustainability reporting analyst and former co-chair of the Cincinnati Military BRG. “The coin is a permanent display of appreciation for an individual’s contribution and represents their commitment to our Core Values.”
It’s a token steeped in history and personal experience. A former Army squadron commander, Quantz created a commander’s coin in partnership with his command sergeant major.
“It was a lot of fun to create the coin for my Army unit, playing on the cavalry symbols and colors, while tying it all in with our unit’s lineage and history,” Quantz said. “I am thankful for the collaboration of our Marketing & Design department to create the Military BRG Challenge Coin. It will look great on a display rack with other challenge coins.”
Fifth Third isn’t the first nonmilitary organization to create its own challenge coin. They are popular with police and fire departments, fraternal organizations and nonprofits with connections to the military. Other companies, as well as music and sports organizations, also have challenge coins.
“I’m proud of our Military BRG for launching this innovative program, and it’s meaningful to me personally as the mother of a senior chief petty officer with the U.S. Navy,” said Stephanie A. Smith, chief inclusion officer. “It’s a unique way to celebrate and honor our commitment to those who serve, and it encompasses our Core Values.”
