Saturday, Apr 19, 2025 at 9:00am
The Norwegian Foot March is an annual event hosted by the University of Minnesota—Golden Gopher Battalion. For the third year, it is adding a 30K and 5K Trail Run option open to all Minnesota military families, Junior and Senior ROTC programs, and the general public. The event's proceeds will benefit the AUSA Troops of Tomorrow initiative and military programs throughout Minnesota.
History of the Norwegian Foot March
The Norwegian Foot March was first held in 1915 as a test of strength and endurance for members of the Norwegian military and to expose new soldiers to the conditions they could expect in the field. Those who completed a 30km distance with a backpack load of 11kg within 4.5 hours earned the Marsjmerket, the Norwegian Armed Forces Marching Badge. On the day after the event, the soldiers should be able to participate in regular duties fully. Over the last several years, the event has become popular among U.S. military units that use the march as an opportunity to support charitable causes.
