Counting coup

It is one of the traditional ways of showing bravery in the face of an enemy and involves intimidating him, and, it is hoped, persuading him to admit defeat, without having to kill him.

These victories may then be remembered, recorded, and recounted as part of the community's oral, written, or pictorial histories.

[3] Counting coup has at times also involved stealing an enemy's weapons or horses tied up to his lodge in camp.

[4] Escaping unharmed while counting coup is traditionally considered a higher honor than being wounded in the attempt.

[1] Joe Medicine Crow (1913–2016) is credited with achieving the feat while serving with the US Army during World War II, as on one occasion he overpowered and disarmed a German soldier,[6] and later stole horses from an SS unit.