V Corps Soldier Conquers the International March of Diekirch and the Nijmegen March in the Same Year

U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Corrie Heffner, a senior noncommissioned officer assigned to V Corps, recently accomplished an impressive feat, living up to the V Corps motto 'It Will Be Done.'

On July 19, 2024, Heffner crossed the finish line of the Nijmegen March in Nijmegen, Netherlands, only a few months after completing the International March of Diekirch in Luxembourg.

Heffner walked 200 kilometers between these two events while carrying a weighted rucksack. Few events test the mettle and perseverance of Soldiers in the way that the International March of Diekirch and the Nijmegen March do.

His significant achievement didn't come easy, but the hard work and training he put in stands as a testament to discipline and resilience. Both endurance-based matches are designed to test the perseverance of the individual competitor.

The March of Diekirch is renowned for its challenging terrain and stringent requirements. Heffner decided to sign up for the event because of the challenge it presented. While marching on the route, he experienced the camaraderie, endurance, and the spirit of international relationships.

"For me, it was a no-brainer," said Heffner about participating in both marches. "I originally signed up for the Diekirch March as a train up for Nijmegen. I realized that both were challenging in different ways."

Each march is more than a physical challenge; they are cultural events that foster unity among participants from various countries.

Over the years, Heffner heard about the Nijmegen March but began researching it in depth when he arrived in Europe. He started his training month in advance to ensure he could complete the grueling march, which takes over four days and requires walking more than 40 kilometers daily. Part of his training was to learn about the historical relevance of the Nijmegen March to Operation Market Garden.

"Both marches put a lot in perspective," said Heffner. "As I casually walk these routes, I think about the Soldiers who were here during World War II but were trying to gain ground and keep their position."

Heffner understood that the Nijmegen March is a historic event that attracts participants from around the globe. He said he was excited to participate alongside different militaries and honor the traditions of those who came before him. Steeped in history, the Nijmegen March dates to 1909 and is one of the most significant walking events worldwide. Participants navigate through the scenic Dutch countryside and vibrant towns each day.

As Heffner crossed the finish line, he was in awe of the grand celebration, where thousands of spectators gathered to cheer on the finishers, creating a festive and supportive atmosphere.

"The crowds and people of Nijmegen were supportive and loved to see American Soldiers," said Heffner. "It makes me proud to be here and represent the U.S. Army."

Heffner epitomizes the spirit of endurance and determination that these events celebrate. During the marches, he managed his pace, hydration, and nutrition, along with that of another junior Soldier from V Corps who took part with him. Heffner also credited a fair amount of motivation to the crowds that gathered to cheer him on along the route.

"It felt great to cross the finish line on day four," he said. "It was a relief to know that I was done when I finished, but I enjoyed both of them."

Both marches reminded Heffner of his ability to overcome challenges, maintain focus under pressure, and support comrades in the face of adversity.

"Sergeant First Class Heffner was really supportive and motivating during preparation and the march," said Pfc. Damien Boccardi, a supply specialist with V Corps. "There was never a point where I felt like I couldn't make it because of the training we had done."

Heffner now owns a particular and rare set of bragging rights. Not only did he complete the International March of Diekirch and the Nijmegen March of Nijmegen, but he completed both in the same year. The achievement is a testament to the power of determination and an actual demonstration of what Soldiers are capable of when they set their minds to something.

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