July 18, 2014 - Ottawa
A Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) contingent of 172 participants from across Canada proudly completed a major physically and emotionally demanding task by crossing the finish line today after partaking in the 98th annual International Four Days Marches Nijmegen.
Led by Brigadier-General Alain Pelletier, the Canadian contingent marched 40 kilometres a day for four consecutive days, while wearing standard combat clothing and carrying a military rucksack weighing at least 10 kilograms.
After completing the demanding 160 kilometres, members of the CAF contingent who completed the Nijmegen Marches were awarded the Four Day Marches Cross by Brigadier-General Pelletier. The contingent then marched the streets of Nijmegen for the Victory Parade along the ‘Via Gladiola,’ a main route named for the flowers the tens of thousands of spectators throw to the marchers upon their entry to the city.
“Although the marches originated as a training exercise, they have evolved over time into an international event, which draws over 45,000 participants, including civilians. We were joined again this year by a great group of Canadian VIPs who proved that marching isn’t just for soldiers anymore. This year’s contingent demonstrated once again that Canada has a first-class, dedicated and motivated military team that is well trained and ready to take on any challenge. The performance of our marchers would not have been the same without the outstanding support of our Logistics team and the enduring support of their respective families and chains of command, to whom I pass on my sincere appreciation. Thank you to our Dutch hosts for continuing to provide a welcoming environment for our members and Bravo Zulu to all who completed the Marches!”
Brigadier-General Alain Pelletier
Commander, Joint Task Force Nijmegen
For more information about the CAF’s participation in the Nijmegen Marches, please consult the Nijmegen Marches Backgrounder.
Still imagery will be available on the Canadian Forces Image Gallery at: www.combatcamera.forces.gc.ca.
For the most recent news stories and photos of CAF training and participation in the Nijmegen Marches, media can visit the official Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/JointTaskForceNijmegen or follow the CAF contingent’s journey on Twitter @CanadianForces.
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Media Relations
Department of National Defence
Phone: (613) 996-2353
Toll-Free: 1 866 377-0811
