Canadian Armed Forces teams complete 2021 Alternative Nijmegen Four Days Marches

July 23, 2021 - Defence Stories

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This past week, during the Alternative Four Days Marches, over 40 JTF Nijmegen marchers, made up of six teams and individual marchers from all around the country, marched for over eight hours per day between July 20-23, accumulating 160 kilometres over the four days in their respective cities and towns.

On June 23, Canadian Armed Forces Joint Task Force Nijmegen (CAF JTF Nijmegen) marchers from coast to coast completed the 2021 Alternative Nijmegen Four Days Marches.

The Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) has participated in the International Four Days Marches (4DAAGSE) in Nijmegen, Netherlands annually since 1952. Due to COVID-19 health measures, this is the second consecutive year that the 4DAAGSE has been cancelled in Nijmegen. JTF Nijmegen teams and individual marchers continued to train after the cancellation of the 4DAAGSE in Nijmegen, and enthusiastically spearheaded the first edition of the Military Personnel Command’s Victory March back in May.

Of the 175 members who successfully completed the 2x20km Victory March, approximately 100 continued training, with nearly 80 members participating in the 2x40km virtual edition of the Swiss Army March in June.

This past week, during the Alternative Four Days Marches, over 40 JTF Nijmegen marchers, made up of six teams and individual marchers from all around the country, marched for over eight hours per day between July 20-23, accumulating 160 kilometres over the four days in their respective cities and towns.

CAF participation in these marches highlights the strong relationship between Canada and the Netherlands. Our long-lasting relationship with the Netherlands dates back to the Second World War where many Canadians gallantly found their final resting place in the cities and towns surrounding the area of Nijmegen. Beyond the symbolic significance for the Canadian military, the marches present a physical and mental challenge for CAF participants, for whom strength and endurance are critical factors in their operational effectiveness.