Description
The USAF Columbus AFB coin commemorates the exceptional staff and facilities of the 14th Flying Training Wing which since World War II has trained only the finest Air Force pilots—the elite—and which continues with that mission today. Fully one half of the pilots in the Air Force today went through basic and primary flight training at Columbus AFB. Not surprisingly, Columbus AFB is home to the busiest military air traffic control facility in the world.
Columbus Air Force Base began as an advanced twin-engine flying school prior to World War II, and trained more than 8,000 flight students who became US Army Air Corps Officers. The base continued to train pilots during the Korean War, then became home to a KC-135 tanker and B-52 bomber squadron. Since 1969, Columbus AFB has carried out the mission for which it originally was activated—training the best Air Force pilots.
The obverse of this special Columbus AFB challenge coin shows the 14th Wing emblem, over the banner “14th Flying Training Wing.” Circumference printing describes their mission: “Day and Night—Peace and War,” and “Columbus AFB, MS.” The coin is highlighted in rich enamels, the reverse featuring the US Air Force emblem in striking blue and white. The reverse bears the wing and star emblem of the new Air Force symbol is based on the familiar World War II “Hap” Arnold wings and represents the service’s heritage. The symbol’s modern design represents the Air Force’s present and future leading edge capabilities defending the United States.
This handsome challenge coin is minted in bronze and given a shiny nickel finish, and is imbued with durable and attractive enamel.
Each coin measures 1 3/4 inch (44mm) in diameter.
This is a surplus NWTM item. Packaging may vary.
This coin features an out of date design and will not be remade after product is sold out.
