V Corps Sends Soldier Support to Nijmegen March

POZNAN, Poland - The Nijmegen March, known as "Vierdaagse," is the world's largest multiple-day marching event. This year, V Corps provided essential life support, including medical and logistical elements, to ensure the safety and well-being of military participants from the 2nd Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, and V Corps as they navigated the grueling 30 to 50 kilometers per day.

Originating in 1909, the march attracts participants worldwide, challenging them to earn the Vierdaagse Cross, an official Kingdom of the Netherlands decoration.

V Corps set up an aid station at Heumensoord, south of Nijmegen, equipped with medical facilities to address health issues during the event. The medical team offered crucial advice on proper foot care, hydration, and techniques to prevent heat injuries. Additionally, the support team established aid stations throughout the route to ensure the marchers' safety.

"I find it interesting each time I get to work alongside our multinational partners and allies as a medic," said Spc. Stoney Christie, a combat medic assigned to the 16th Sustainment Brigade. "Every single time, I find myself learning something new technique-wise that I could add to my toolbox to use later."

Each day, the medical staff provided services such as wrapping feet to prevent blisters. They also checked for proper hydration and offered strategies to manage the physical strain of the march. Their presence was vital in maintaining the health and morale of the marchers.

"Our training as medics prepared us for these types of large-scale events where our expertise is needed," said Sgt. Austin Hollingsworth, a combat medic assigned to the 30th Medical Brigade. "I enjoy helping out and being able to assist service members with their medical needs."

Sgt. Randy Allen, also from the 16th Sustainment Brigade, highlighted the importance of V Corps' medical support in keeping participants in top condition. His team ensured that marchers received timely care, allowing them to focus on completing each day's route.

"I'm just thankful for the opportunity to participate in a multinational event and keep Soldiers healthy during their march," he said. "I pride myself in being able to provide my medical expertise in blister care, hydration, and stretching to those out there participating so that they can all cross the finish line together."

Additionally, Soldiers from the 1st Cav. Div. provided life support by establishing rest stops along the route equipped with food, water, and shelter. This comprehensive task was instrumental in preventing injuries and ensuring participants could continue the march.

"I'm having a blast out here working with the other nations and their different military branches," said Staff Sgt. Steven Daigneault, a support operations specialist assigned to the 1st Cav. Div. "It's not every day that you get the opportunity to come out and support such a historical event like this and help your fellow service members finish strong."

The V Corps support team's dedication ensured that over 70% of military participants completed the march each day. Their support was critical in helping marchers overcome the event's physical demands and achieve their goals.

"The excitement and morale are high; everyone seems full of life even though they walk 40 to 60 kilometers daily," said Spc. Laura Culliver, a network communication systems specialist assigned to the 1st Cav. Div. "The atmosphere from the locals as they cheered them made things more electric."

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