PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. – Getting “coined,” a military term addressing the exchange of a specially-tailored coin usually passed from a higher to a lower ranking officer or enlisted Soldier, displays mutual respect and fosters camaraderie among the ranks.
Soldiers may get coined for a host of different reasons.
It could be a reward for a job well done, showing exceptional work ethic and drive, or simply being in the right place at the right time.
For a select few soldiers from the 308th Military Police Company, an Army Reserve unit based at Fort Carson, Colo., it was the latter.
Sgt. Maj. of the Army Raymond F. Chandler III presented coins to the 308th soldiers at the 2013 U.S. Army Reserve Senior Leader Forum, here.
“He’s definitely an NCO (noncommissioned officer) to emulate,” said Sgt. 1st Class Scott Kallio, from Colorado Springs and the 308th operations NCO. “He seemed genuinely interested in our needs and really cares about the soldiers.”
Kallio and his fellow 308th soldiers were supporting operations for the forum.
“If the Sergeant Major of the Army gives you advice, you definitely listen,” said Spc. Sarah Byram, from Aurora, Colo. “He really emphasized the importance of looking out for your fellow soldiers beneath you and to be a mentor to them.”
As the Army’s senior NCO, Chandler often visits soldiers to observe training and connect with them and their families.
“As far as the enlisted goes, he is the man to mold your career after if you wish to succeed in this Army,” said Sgt. Erik Boisvert, from Colorado Springs. “I’m glad he took the time to share some words of wisdom with us and pass on a token of gratitude for our service.”
Kallio agreed and said he felt it wasn’t too often that an Army Reserve soldier would get a chance to meet the Army’s top NCO.
“And for me and my soldiers, to get some advice and a coin from him means a lot,” he said.