On February 17th, 2025, the 61st Medical Battalion of the Tennessee State Guard (State Defense Force) demonstrated its strength and resilience as it took part in one of the most demanding military endurance events—the Norwegian Foot March. Despite cold rain, powerful winds, and unrelenting terrain, Guardsmen from the Tennessee State Guard stood shoulder to shoulder with troops from five Army ROTC units, The Tennessee Army National Guard’s 278th Armored Cavalry Regiment, and other Tennessee Army National Guard Soldiers units to take on the 18.6-mile challenge.
This marks the 4th annual Norwegian Foot March hosted by the 61st Medical Battalion, and the event proved to be as intense as ever. Out of 41 participants, 32 completed the course, pushing themselves to the limits of physical and mental endurance. The course not only tested stamina but also symbolized the enduring commitment of these soldiers to maintain mission readiness under pressure.
A Test of Military Readiness with a Global Legacy
The Norwegian Foot March dates back to 1915, when it was introduced by the Norwegian Army as a rigorous test of a soldier’s marching capabilities and physical readiness. The goal was simple but grueling: ensure troops could traverse long distances carrying their combat gear and arrive ready to fight. Today, the tradition lives on—not only in Norway but across allied militaries around the globe—as a way to strengthen combat conditioning, foster military partnership, and promote physical fitness.
To earn the coveted Norwegian Foot March badge, participants must complete a 30-kilometer (18.64-mile) course while carrying a rucksack weighing at least 11 kilograms (24.25 pounds). Time limits are set based on the participant’s age and gender, requiring intense training and unwavering discipline to succeed.
Strengthening Partnerships Between Forces
This year’s march in Tennessee is part of a growing trend. Just weeks earlier, the Texas State Guard 2nd Brigade hosted and completed their own Norwegian Foot March alongside troops from the Texas National Guard, showcasing the strong partnership between state and federal military units. Similarly, in January, the Connecticut National Guard held the Norwegian Foot March and extended the invitation to members of the Connecticut Governor’s Guards (State Defense Force).
These joint events help deepen interoperability and camaraderie between the National Guard and State Defense Forces, reinforcing their shared mission of defense, readiness, and community service. As State Guards across the nation continue to integrate with their National Guard counterparts in events like the Norwegian Foot March, they demonstrate not only their capabilities but their unwavering commitment to the states and communities they serve.
61st held its 4th annual Norwegian Foot March (NFM) with elements of 5 ARMY ROTC units, 278th ACR, TNARNG, and TSG competing on a rainy, windy, nasty day, on the 18.6 mile course, with 32 out of 41 finishing the course!
BZ
Source: Tennessee State Guard
