CO2 Safety and Our Work with Fire Departments: The Meaning Behind Our Challenge Coins
At CO2 Monitoring, our work is rooted in service and collaboration. During a recent CO2 safety and compliance workshop attended by members of the Costa Mesa Fire Department, our President Ronald Longley was presented with a Challenge Coin: A token that joins a collection from departments we've had the opportunity to engage with over the years. These coins, rooted in a long tradition of recognition in military and public safety communities, represent mutual respect and a shared focus on life safety through education, technical insight, and code compliance awareness.
At CO2 Monitoring, our work has always gone beyond the technologies we create. It’s about fostering trust and working alongside those on the front lines of public safety.
Recently, Ronald Longley, President of CO2 Monitoring LLC and creator of Aerosphere® had the opportunity to visit Orange County during a CO2 safety and compliance workshop attended by members of the Costa Mesa Fire Department. As a token of appreciation, the OCFA gifted us a Challenge Coin labeled “OC’s Finest Code Jockey”, a lighthearted nod to shared dedication and professional respect in the industry.
It also adds to a growing collection of coins we've received from departments we've had the privilege to work alongside. Some of the coins we have collected over the years include the Utah Fire Marshals Association coin, the 2020 Harris County Fire Marshal coin, and the 45th Anniversary Texas Fire Marshals Association coin.
These challenge coins are a symbol of mutual respect, recognition, and are a meaningful reminder of the moments where our paths have aligned with those committed to life safety.
The History of Challenge Coins
Challenge Coins have a long tradition in military and first responder communities. They’re believed to have originated during World War I as a way to symbolize membership, camaraderie, and valor within military units. The origin of challenge coins is debated, though according to the U.S. Department of Defense, the most commonly shared story involves an American lieutenant who had custom coins made for his unit. One of his pilots was shot down behind enemy lines and captured, but later escaped and made his way to French forces. With no identification, he was nearly executed, until he revealed his coin in a leather pouch. A French soldier recognized the insignia, and halted his execution.
Over time, the tradition extended to law enforcement, fire departments, and other public safety organizations. Today, Challenge Coins are used to recognize outstanding service, build morale, and commemorate significant moments.
What These Coins Represent to Us
In the fire service, receiving a Challenge Coin is a sign that you’ve made an impact. Whether it's collaborating on CO2 safety standards, providing technical insight, or supporting broader education efforts, we value every opportunity to contribute alongside those who keep communities safe.
We remain dedicated to supporting Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs), gas suppliers, and fire service professionals in their ongoing efforts to improve CO2 Safety and Awareness.
