Photo credit: Michael Hnatov
Accession Number: C.2015.325.1
Dimensions: 0.125 in diameter
Dimensions (Metric): 0.3175 cm diameter
Credit Line: Gift of Eric Bruckenthal
Description
Challenge coin created in memory of Nathan Bruckenthal. The front of the coin features an image of a man holding a gun with an American flag behind him. Text on the front reads: "DC 3 Nathan Bruckenthal | Hostes Oppugnate-OIF." The back of the coin features the logo for the US Coast Guard Tactical Law Enforcement Team with text: "USCG Tactical Law Enforcement Team | South." In the center, over the logo reads: "4-24-04 KIA | Operation Iraqi Freedom."
Historical Notes
Nathan “Nate” Bruckenthal (July 17, 1979-April 24, 2004) was a United States Coast Guard Petty Officer who was the only U.S. Coast Guardsman killed in Operation Iraqi Freedom. His parents recalled that when he was young, Nate was drawn to service, aspiring to become a police officer or a firefighter. Only after his death did they learn that soon after 9/11, Nate spent a month at Ground Zero assisting with the rescue and recovery efforts.