MARBLEHEAD — Commander Ronny Knight, of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2005, seeks approval for utilizing the “Spirt of 76” on a “Challenge Coin” that the Post would use to recognize people who have donated their time and services to the VFW.
Along with providing a Challenge Coin to each one of the Veteran Members, the post aims to make the Challenge Coins available to sell to the public as a potential gift or keepsake item. Knight said the funds raised by the sale of these coins will roll over to future printings and charitable donations once the program grows.
“The significance of a Challenge Coin for those of us that have served is all-encompassing and it shows pride in the unit and conflicts that we have served, and our relationship with other units, and branches of service,” Knight said. “But the best definition of a Challenge Coin is Membership, Belonging, Camaraderie, and Appreciation.”
Knight said the idea for the commemorative coin came from Tim Donahue after a Veterans Funeral at Waterside cemetery.
“What would it mean to the members of this Honor Guard from the USS Constitution to present them each with a Challenge Coin from the VFW with the “Spirt of 76” on it from the Birthplace of the American Navy and Marine Corps Aviation,” Donahue said to Knight.
“I must admit I was taken aback by his statement. I know as Commander of the Post and a Veteran It would recognize their duty, service, and sacrifice, and that this town is a special place that recognizes, respects, and values that,” Knight said.
Knight is set to appear in front of the Select Board on August 14 as he seeks its approval to use the “Spirit of 76” on the coin.
This initiative follows a plethora of community-centric opportunities the VFW has recently started in order to bring more people to the Post, including its first car show, which was deemed a success by Knight. He now plans to hold one at the post once a month. The next will be held on Thursday, Aug. 15.
The Challenge Coin is one part of a Five Point plan for the VFW for this year to assist in rejuvenating and “reenergizing” the Post. Another measure the VFW is working on to bolster public interest is the pending installation of machines to play the Lottery game Keno.
The VFW has submitted an application to the Massachusetts State Lottery Commission. State Rep. Knight gave credit to State Rep. Jenny Armini for helping to navigate the application process for the Post to become a Massachusetts Lottery Agent.
Armini said she hopes hosting lottery games will “add to the camaraderie and enjoyment” of the Post.
“It’s a place for our beloved veterans, but it’s also a terrific community resource,” Armini said.
“I would like to thank both her and her staff for their time, and assistance with this process.” Knight said. “While I have this opportunity, I would like to make an appeal to All Veterans from the Town of Marblehead either from a Foreign War or Cold War Veterans to come and support the Post.”
