Posted 12 years ago
scottvez
(977 items)
Here is a unit coin from the Rakkasans or 187th Infantry Regiment (3rd BDE, 101st ABN Division).
While most unit coins are actual coins, this one is unusual in shape. The shape is called a Torri. Torris are found throughout Japan, serving as a gate to religious temples. You will find the torri used as identifying insignia on the helmets of modern Rakkasan soldiers.
The Rakkasans were initially part of the 11th Airborne and fought in the Pacific in WW2. They served occupation duty in Japan following the War earning the "Rakkasan" name from the Japanese. "Rakkasan" roughly translates to "Falling Umbrella"-- a fitting nickname for the Airborne soldiers.
During Korea, the unit deployed as a Airborne Regimental Combat Team (ARCT) and made two combat jumps in the War.
During Viet Nam, the unit participated in the famous Battle of Dong Ap Bia Mountain (Hamburger Hill) in 1968.
I served in the unit three times during my career-- the first and last time separted by 20 years.
I was really fortunate that all of my combat tours (Desert Storm, Operation Enduring Freedom [Afghanistan] and Operation Iraqi Freedom) were with elements of the Rakkasan Regiment.
scott
I've had the honor of collecting several of these 'coins' myself and have wondered why some have a colonel and csm rank displayed others don't. Is there a chain of command of who presents these coins?
It is just the preference of the CDR. I have some with rank present others without.
The unit Commander or Senior NCO will present coins. For a Division that would be a Major General and the Division CSM, BDE would be COL or BDE CSM, BN would be LTC or BN CSM.
Usually coins are found at the BN level or higher, but I have seen Company level coins. Those would be presented by the Company Commander (Captain) or the First Sergeant.
Normally, the unit coin is updated upon a change of command or significant event (Wartime deployment).
scott
Thanks majestic, manikin and bellin!
scott
Thanks for looking marc.
scott
Very fine item, indeed! - the likes of which I have never seen. A compelling and masterly account! Bravo on your Show and Tell item! Honor and gratitude to you for your sacrifices and service, sir!!! miKKo
Thanks mikko, I appreciate it!
scott
Thanks for commenting petey!
scott
Thanks for looking toracat!
scott