Does anyone collect Challenge Coins?

[girphoto]

Hi ,

My Challenge coin is from The Broward (Florida) Sheriffs SWAT Dept.

As some of you know, I am an active photographer at NASA, Kennedy Space Center, Florida.

My usual shooting position is from the top of the Vehicle Assembly Building and I ahem been up there for about 18 years. After blowing out my knees ( first the right and than the left) I had my assistant go up and I took a position in an area called Astronaut Road. After setting up, I noticed that there were a few people there shooting (or trying to). It is very easy to notice a rookie, so after I was set and waiting for the count down to start, I walked over and asked if I could be of assistance.
One of the photographers (Darin Dowe) said , sure. I helped him with his set up, exposure and wished him luck.
Yep, as the story goes, he made some nice photos and I used 1 of them for my Company (he did get paid). I still did not know who he was. Darin than started working for me on Shuttle Launches. I would send him to a position that I needed to be covered and he produce.
On one occasion, I asked him what he did for a living and he told me that he was the LT. in charge of the Broward County Florida SWAT team. He also invited me to come and shoot at his range when ever I wanted.
I thanked him and when we went to shake hands, he place one of his teams Challenge coins in my hand.
He said that I would never have to buy a drink again
I am sad to report that this past January 2012, Dain Dowe passed away from Brain cancer, he was 42 (much to young) and that I have carried his coin every day, day in and day out since he gave it to me.

It is my pleasure to share his coin with you all




I say to Darin.....God Speed