Grateful Americans Donates to SOWF

In 2007 Bill and Deb Benson of Odessa, Florida were looking for a way to teach their children the importance of patriotism. A non-military family, they came up with the idea of adopting the military tradition of awarding "challenge coins” to men and women in uniform. The challenge coin they designed carries the emblems of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and Coast Guard.

They also decided the project would be not for profit with all proceeds benefitting military charities. Deb says they were amazed when they sold enough coins in 2008 to write checks for over $20,000 to charities including the Special Operations Warrior Foundation.

Two years on Grateful American Coin sales are still going strong. In two years they've sold nearly 20,000 coins. Bill and Deb recently stopped by the Warrior Foundation's headquarters to present SOWF Executive Director Steve McLeary with a check for over $11,000.

What started out as a simple project to teach their sons an important lesson in patriotism has grown into an endeavor that has made a difference for thousands of American soldiers who now have proof that their efforts truly are appreciated.

If you'd like to carry on the challenge coin tradition log on to www.gratefulamericancoin.org.