A large part of my life has been shaped by the values I was raised with because of my dad's military service. I grew up connected to many places, including Georgia, North Dakota, Pennsylvania, and North Carolina. The Beach especially holds a special place in my heart. The seashells or pictures around the household hold many memories of the family trips there. This reminds me that even if life changes, you will always have that special piece for you. One object that represents this is my Tun Tavern Challenge Coin. My dad gave me this coin. This coin represents the birthplace of the United States Marine Corps at Tun Tavern in Philadelphia, where the Marines were founded on November 10, 1775. Tun Tavern served at the first recruiting post for the original battalions of Marines, making the coin a symbol of service, pride, and sacrifice. On this coin, there is a picture of the Tun tavern building and the year on the front, and the Marine Corps eagle, globe, and anchor are on the back. When I look at this coin, it means a lot to me. It reminds me where I grew up and how I got there, where I moved, all the fun memories along the way, and even shows me that from some of the places I lived, we use traditions from there. This coin also represents how I was raised, and how it affects the way my future will be. 

– Liliana VanWhy

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