V Corps Soldiers Complete the Nijmegen March

V Corps Soldiers participated in the Nijmegen March, popularly known as the 4Days March, or Vierdaagse, in Nijmegen, Netherlands from July 16 to July 20, 2024. The V Corps headquarters team prepared for more than six months to complete the grueling event, which consisted of walking approximately 25 miles per day for four days straight. The marching event dates back to 1909, but is also connected to the history of World War II in the Nijmegen area.

The Dutch League for Physical Education initially organized the march in 1909 in the Netherlands. The march was intended to promote physical fitness and endurance among civilians and military personnel. The first march saw 306 participants who trekked 140 kilometers over four days. Military involvement in the march initially began as an exclusively a Dutch military event, with soldiers from various Dutch regiments taking part in uniform and carrying their full gear out of boredom. The event grew in popularity each year, eventually becoming a significant tradition in Dutch culture.Then, in 1940, the event was canceled due to the German invasion. When the march started again in 1946 it had a new meaning, as the Netherlands continued to recover from the war. This meaning has expanded to include international camaraderie and partnerships among militaries in Europe and U.S. military participants. The march now takes place every July, and averages more than 45,000 participants each year.

"It's important to be a part of these events because it gives a great perspective," said Spc. Devin Snodgrass, a member of the 2nd Cavalry Regiment team who took part in the march. "It reminds us that we aren't alone as a military, and have a ton of respect for the other Soldiers I have come across."

This year, V Corps Soldiers registered for the Nijmegen March to walk alongside competitions from allied and partner nations. The gesture highlights the the ever growing symbolism of the march as and international event that develops morale and camaraderie. International military participation has become the cornerstone of the Nijmegen March since the post World War II period of its existence. The emphasis on military endurance and camaraderie helped establish the event's reputation as a grueling, endurance-focused competition.

The Nijmegen March has evolved to include various distances and categories, accommodating a wide range of participants. Military units are provided the opportunity to march in formation, alongside military teams from various countries. They march on the longest route, 50 kilometers per day, while carrying a 25 pound pack and their equipment. Teams from around the world also live on Camp Heumensoord, spending evenings after the march together on the camp. This tradition not only honors the historical roots of the event but also strengthens the bonds between military personnel from different countries.

Pfc. Damien Boccardi reflected on the significance of the march and its location. Boccardi, assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion, V Corps, said, "It's really humbling to be able to be here in Nijmegen and walk these areas where World War II battles were fought."

The connection between the The Walk of the World and World War II history became celebrated in the years following the 1946 revival of the march. The routes took on new meaning, as they were drawn to reflect some of the sites of Operation Market Garden, the largest Allied airborne operation of World War II. The airborne operation consisted of U.S, British, and Polish paratroopers fighting at different locations in the city.

Operation Market Garden was a major Allied offensive during World War II, aimed at securing a series of key bridges in the Netherlands, particularly those at Eindhoven, Nijmegen, and Arnhem. The capture of the Waal Bridge in Nijmegen was critical and witnessed intense fighting as Allied forces sought to secure it. The successful but costly crossing of the Waal River by the 82nd Airborne Division became a defining moment in the battle.

Different portions of the operation are commemorated annually during the Nijmegen March. Specifically, participants cross the Waal Bridge in honor of the Soldiers that fought courageously to secure the bridgehead. Most days follow a route with a shared geographical and historical significance of Nijmegen and its surrounding areas. Soldiers also honor and reflect on the sacrifices made in Operation Market Garden by participating and building relationships with soldiers from other countries. Whether it be on Camp Heumensoord or on the routes through the city of Nijmegen, Soldiers can be seen building the same camaraderie as the Soldiers that fought alongside each other in 1944.

The V Corps participants followed various training programs to prepare for the march. Most importantly, each team prepared by learning about the event and understanding the history of the area they would be marching.

"This event really made me appreciate the opportunities I have had to experience different things in the military," said Snodgrass. "I was able to come out here and challenge myself alongside soldiers from all around the world. That's a unique experience I will always remember."

The Nijmegen March is a combination of an endurance event and tribute to military history aimed to build international relationships in the military. Today's participants aim to honor the Soldiers that fought in Operation Market Garden by displaying endurance, and remembering their bravery. All participants preserve the memory of previous veterans by fostering a historical awareness and respect among the international military partners in Nijmegen.

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