The Airman's coin is used to welcome new junior enlisted and Second Lieutenants into the United States Air Force as well as to give the newest members a link to the heritage of the Air Force. The Airman's coin is awarded near the end of Basic Military Training and marks the transition from trainee to Airman. It is usually awarded by Wing Commander and Command Chief Master Sergeant but may also be awarded by other personnel such as the Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force. The Airman's coin is the first Challenge coin awarded to Airmen and is the foundation for an Airman's unique Challenge coin collection.