F.E. WARREN AIR FORCE BASE, Wyo. -- On Nov. 15, 2025, the Wyoming Army National Guard (WYARNG) and 90th Security Forces Group (SFG) hosted a Norwegian Foot March, bringing together Airmen, Soldiers, Reserve Officer Training Corps cadets and community members for one of the military’s most demanding endurance events at F.E. Warren AFB.
First held by the Norwegian Armed Forces in 1915, the Norwegian Foot March (NFM) is an 18.64-mile course completed while carrying a minimum 24.25-pound rucksack and wearing a military uniform. Participants must finish within a prescribed time limit that varies by age and gender. Those who meet the standard earn the Military Marching Badge, an endurance skill award authorized by the Norwegian Armed Forces.
Originally developed as a readiness assessment for Norwegian Army soldiers, the NFM was designed to ensure troops could move long distances under load in austere conditions. Over time, the march expanded internationally and continues to serve as a test of both physical endurance and mental resilience.
The event was led by the WYARNG, with support from the 90 SFG. Maj. Jake Rogers, WYARNG deputy G3, spearheaded planning and execution of the march, while Staff Sgt. Brandon Oaks, 890th Missile Security Forces Squadron defender, assisted by coordinating participation and support from F.E. Warren AFB.
“This was a great opportunity for team building with our neighbors at F.E. Warren (AFB) and helped strengthen our partnerships,” said Rogers. “We originally considered making this a Guard-only event, but it quickly became clear that it made more sense to make it a joint effort.”
Rogers said the march provided a shared challenge for Airmen and Soldiers alike, noting the demanding conditions participants faced throughout the course.
“This was definitely a difficult route considering the wind and elevation here in Wyoming,” Rogers said. “We had a lot of people register, but only about a third met the required standards to earn the Norwegian Foot March Badge.”
In support of the event, Oaks served as the 90th Missile Wing liaison, helping coordinate communication, logistics and outreach to F.E. Warren AFB personnel.
“Maj. Rogers and his office were looking for an Air Force liaison to help support the event, and I volunteered to assist,” Oaks said. “Working alongside the Wyoming Army National Guard helped ensure Airmen at F.E. Warren (AFB) were informed and able to participate.”
Oaks said the teamwork displayed throughout the march stood out most, particularly the determination shown by participants from both services.
“We saw raw, unfiltered grit across the board,” Oaks said. “Some members weren’t worried about making the time - they just wanted to push themselves to finish. Others fell short and immediately said they’d be back next year to complete it on time.”
For many participants, completing the march proved both physically grueling and mentally demanding. Long stretches of uneven terrain, sustained weight and changing wind directions created a constantly varied challenge throughout the course. Airman 1st Class Hunter Kirkland, 90 MW Public Affairs specialist, crossed the finish line after 4 hours, 19 minutes of sustained effort.
“This NFM was definitely the most physically demanding undertaking I have ever done in my military career so far,” said Kirkland. “It definitely gave me a lot of confidence in both my physical abilities and the ability to keep going even when your leg is hurting so much that you can’t run anymore. And to complete it in the given time, just feels great.”
Despite the difficulty, Rogers emphasized the lasting impact of the experience.
“Not everything comes easy, and sometimes the best things come with hardship,” Rogers said. “This wasn’t something that was just handed out, and I’m proud of everyone who took part. I hope this is something we can do again.”