INFORMATION: 101st Airborne Division "BRAVE EAGLE" Vietnam War Era Challenge Coin

Brave Eagle Coin

Coin awarded by the 101st Division in addition to any valor award issued to a Screaming Eagle in Vietnam. (NOTE: please contact Mike Bookser if you have any information concerning the creation, awarding, and/or subsequent withdrawal of this coin from distribution.)

The Brave Eagle Coin was first issued in Spring-Summer 1969 and continued into 1971. It is attributed to MG Melvin Zais who was the Commanding General of the 101st Airborne Division at the time. He instructed Division Awards and Records to award the coin along with any valor award issued to a Screaming Eagle. The coin was a bit smaller than a half-dollar and was made out of bronze or silver. The citation for the Brave Eagle Coin reads: .

1. The history of the 101st Airborne Division (Airmobile) from World War II to Vietnam is rich with the valorous deeds of some of some of bravest men who have ever fought in battle. As a recipient of an award for valor, you have personally made a significant contribution to this history and to the successful accomplishment of the Screaming Eagle mission.

2. As a special recognition of your valorous actions, you are presented a Brave Eagle Coin, symbolizing your willingness to give above and beyond the call of duty

3. Please accept also my personal thanks and congratulations. Your valor marks you as one who--like this great division-has met the challenge of our Rendezvous with Destiny in Vietnam.

The coins were pulled from distribution due to a conflict or disagreement with Congress or some legal authority. We'll take stories from those who were in Division HQ who know the why distribution of the coin was stopped.