Exercise Nijmegen Marches 2016

Transcription

Exercise
Nijmegen Marches
2016
Joint Service Entry
Procedures
&
General Information
Booklet
Version 6 - Oct 2015
Contents
Paragraph
1
Introduction
BMC organisation
BMC committee
Support staff
4
5
BMC entry requirements
Eligibility
Age limitations
Mandatory weight regulations
March categories
Training
Qualification
Local qualification
Reserves/replacements
First-time TLs
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
Nijmegen marches entry procedures
General
Stage 1: Initial registration
Stage 2: Team member declaration
Stage 3: Final confirmation
Stage 4: Arrivals
Stage 5: Marches
Stage 6: Post Event
Submissions
CO approval
Civilian entry procedures
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
16
17
18
Charges and allowances
Entry fees
Accommodation and messing
Charges for living-in personnel
Pay and local overseas allowance
19
20
21
22
Movements
General
Arrival
Departure
Modes of transport
Overloading
Non-marching drivers
Funding for travel
Notification of movements
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
Documentation and insurance
Entry paperwork
Passports
31
32
i
Identity cards
Medical insurance
Personal insurance
33
34
35
Dress regulations and equipment requirements
General
Authority to wear uniform
Marching dress
Equipment
Formal parades
36
37
38
39
40
Formal parades
Opening ceremony
British reception
Final march past
Final march past procedures
41
42
43
44
Discipline and security
Conduct
Discipline
Military police
Security
Safety
Uniform outside camp
Minimum dress
45
46
47
48
49
50
51
Publicity and visits
Publicity brief
Visits
52
53
March awards
Nijmegen marches medal
Team award
BMC awards
54
55
56
Miscellaneous
Medical support
Compulsory drug testing
RAF WARMA
57
58
59
Conclusion
Summary
Further information
60
61
Annexes:
Annex A:
Annex B:
Annex C:
Annex D:
Annex E:
A short history of the Nijmegen International Four Days Marches
Team Leader Aide Memoire
Heumensoord Camp Facilities Brief
Dress Regulations and Equipment Lists
Medical Brief: Care of Body and Sole
ii
EXERCISE NIJMEGEN MARCHES
Introduction
1.
The Nijmegen Marches. The Nijmegen International Four Days Marches (or Vierdaagse) is
the largest marching event in the world. The city of Nijmegen, within the Netherlands, plays host to
the event which attracts approximately 45,000 participants each year. Of this number
approximately 5,000 entrants are military personnel. Starting annually on the third Tuesday of
July, the event takes place over four consecutive days. Each day’s march covers a different route,
although the start point remains the same every day. For civilian participants this is in Nijmegen
city centre whilst for military personnel it is Heumensoord Camp, approximately 5km south of the
city centre. The distance covered each day (either 30, 40 or 50km) is dependent upon the age and
category of the marcher. All military participants are required to complete the 40km military route
making the total regulation distance covered 160km. The Nijmegen Marches are organised and
run by the Foundation for the Four Days Marches or, to give it its correct title, Stichting
Internationale Vierdaagse Afstandsmarsen Nijmegen (Stichting De 4DAAGSE), a subsidiary
organisation of the Dutch League for Physical Culture (KNBLO). The Dutch Ministry of Defence
also play a major role in the Marches by hosting the visiting foreign military marchers. A short
history of the Marches is at Annex A.
2.
Military participation. Military participation in the event takes the form of official military
contingents. Each year contingents from approximately 30 countries are invited to march in
uniform and their presence contributes considerably to the unique and colourful atmosphere of the
Marches. British participation takes place under Exercise Nijmegen Marches, a collective military
training exercise; participation is not classed as a sport or adventurous training. At approximately
1000 personnel, the British Military Contingent (BMC) forms the largest of the foreign military
contingents. Its numbers are drawn from the Royal Navy, the Army, the Royal Air Force, all
Reserve Forces and the Service University and Cadet organisations.
3.
JS booklet. This booklet should be read in conjunction with the Exercise Nijmegen Marches
Defence Instruction and Notice (DIN) and details the entry requirements and application process
for personnel wishing to march as part of the BMC. It also contains a wealth of useful information
and advice and should be considered as essential reading for all participating units and individuals.
BMC organization
4.
BMC Committee. Overall responsibility for the control and administration of the BMC rests
with the Headquarters British Forces Germany, HQ BFG, but this is in transition to Support
Command (UK). To facilitate these responsibilities, a BMC Committee is established with the
following appointments:
a.
Head of UK National Contingent. The Head of the UK National Contingent is the
Chairman of the BMC Committee and is appointed by HQ BFG.
b.
Officer Commanding BMC (OC BMC). Appointed by the Head of the UK National
Contingent, OC BMC is responsible for the overall administration of the BMC. OC BMC also
acts as a sponsor for the RAF teams specified in para 6 below.
c.
BMC Co-ordinating Officer (BMC Coord). The BMC Coord is appointed by HQ BFG
and provides the link between HQ BFG and the BMC Committee. The BMC Coord also acts
as a sponsor for the Land teams specified in para 6 below.
d.
BMC Liaison Support Officer (LSO) / OC Admin. The LSO is appointed by OC BMC
and is the first point of contact for the Host Nation during the Marches. As OC Admin, this
post is also responsible for administration of the BMC whilst at Heumensoord Camp.
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e.
BMC Nijmegen Marches Registrations Officer (NMRO). The NMRO is appointed by
OC BMC and is responsible for co-ordinating and controlling registrations for the entry of all
BMC participants attending the Nijmegen Marches.
f.
Further posts. To provide additional support, 3 further Committee posts (OC Route
Support, SO2 Protocol and March RSM) are established during the period of the Marches
themselves.
5.
Support staff. In addition to the committee posts detailed above, the BMC employs a
number of support staff (BMCSS) for the period of the Marches. The responsibilities of the
support staff are as follows:
a.
Admin support. Made up of Service volunteers, the admin support staff are
responsible for all administrative tasks during the marches, including manning of the British
Administration Centre at Heumensoord Camp and accommodation allocation.
b.
Logistics support. Made up of Service volunteers, the logistics support staff are
responsible for the build and maintenance of British Lines at Heumensoord Camp.
c.
Rest area and catering support. The rest area and catering support staff provide
refreshments at dedicated rest areas along the route each day. They are provided by the
Regular Army Assistance Table (RAAT).
d.
Medical support. This includes the provision of medical facilities, both at
Heumensoord Camp and at the dedicated rest areas. Again provided by the RAAT.
e.
Royal Military Police. The BMC is supported by a detachment of RMP for policing
and assistance duties. The RMP are provided by the RAAT.
Information on how to apply to become a member of the BMCSS is given in the Exercise Nijmegen
Marches DIN.
BMC entry requirements
6.
Eligibility. The following personnel are eligible to enter teams as part of the BMC.
a.
b.
Land-sponsored participants:
(1)
Royal Navy and Royal Marine units and establishments (regular and reserve).
(2)
Army units and establishments (regular and reserve).
(3)
Joint units and establishments (regular and reserve).
(4)
University Royal Naval Units (URNU), University Officer Training Corps
(UOTC) units and Defence Technical Undergraduate Scheme (DTUS)
Squadrons.
(5)
Sea Cadet Corps (SCC) units.
(6)
Army Cadet Force (ACF) units.
(7)
Combined Cadet Force (CCF) units.
RAF-sponsored participants:
(1)
RAF Stations and units (regular and reserve).
2
(2)
University Air Squadrons (UAS).
(3)
Air Cadet Organisation (ACO) units.
7.
Age limitations. In accordance with BMC regulations all military personnel are to be 16
years old on or before 15 Jul 16.
8.
Mandatory weight regulations. Stichting De 4DAAGSE regulations stipulate that all male
marchers born between 1 Jan 1967 and 31 Dec 1997 are required to carry 10kg dead-weight in
addition to water, food and other consumables. Stichting De 4DAAGSE officials will carry out
weight checks at random points along the route and personnel found to be carrying insufficient
weight will be disqualified from the March.
9.
March categories.
a.
Teams. For BMC participants, the Nijmegen Marches are primarily a team event. A
team is to consist of at least 11 personnel, including the Team Leader (TL). Teams may be
all male, all female or mixed. TLs are to hold the minimum substantive rank of Sgt, but
should ideally be a commissioned officer. Units having less than 11 marchers, or without a
suitable Officer/SNCO to act as TL may still submit an entry through the normal process,
detailed in para 15 of this document. Such teams will be combined with other units and/or
allocated a TL at the discretion of the BMC Committee.
b.
Cadet teams. As stated in para 7, cadets are to be at least 16 years old on or before
15 Jul 16. All cadets are to provide proof of age (photocopy of birth certificate, passport or
driving licence) to the NMRO during Stage 2 of the entry process, see para 15.
Parental/Guardian consent forms are also required for all cadet participants. Health
certificates are required for all cadets AND all cadet adult staff in accordance with para 15.
Cadet teams are to include a minimum of one and maximum of two adult staff. These adults
must be members of the cadet organisations. Mixed teams are to contain at least one
female adult; this female may be a cadet who is at least 18 years old and who is willing to
take on this supervisory role under the guidance of the adult staff member.
c.
Individuals. Participation as an individual entrant within the BMC is a privilege and not
a right. Applications to march as an individual are granted on a case by case basis by OC
BMC in consultation with the NMRO. All applicants are to hold a minimum substantive rank
of Sgt and are to have proven marching experience at Nijmegen. Individuals will be tasked
as a ‘route sweeper’ by OC Route Support as required on marching days, however individual
entrants are responsible to OC BMC to provide support to other BMC participants at all times
during the Marches - not only when tasked as a sweeper. Where the viability of a team is in
doubt, individuals may also be required to combine with that team or act in the capacity of
TL. Be aware that the granting of an application to march as an individual one year does not
automatically guarantee that future applications to march as an individual will be successful.
10. Training. The Exercise Nijmegen Marches present a clear challenge to physical fitness and
mental endeavour. They are also a strong test of leadership and teamwork. It is therefore
absolutely essential that teams embark on a serious programme of structured training in the
months preceding the event. Only those teams who have the time and commitment to prepare are
to enter. High standards are necessary if teams are to complete the Marches successfully and in a
professional manner. Unit Commanding Officers are required to certify that teams / individual
entrants will complete a formal programme of training and will be fully capable of completing the
Marches.
11. Qualification. In addition to the training requirements in para 10, all BMC participants are to
complete a qualifying march of not less than 40kms per day on 2 consecutive days. Any personnel
who fail to complete a qualifying march will not be eligible to participate in Nijmegen. To facilitate
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this there are 2 formal qualifying marches organised for 2016. Teams and individuals may use
either one of these events for qualification as they each mirror closely the preparation and
standards required for success at Nijmegen. Entry into these events is entirely separate to the
entry process for the Nijmegen Marches themselves and TLs/Team Managers (TMs) must
enter their personnel into these events directly through the organizers for that event. The
NMRO will be notified of all personnel who have qualified for Nijmegen by the organizers of these
events. The formal qualifying events are:
a.
RAF 2-Day March. The RAF 2-Day March, organized by the RAF Walking and Road
Marching Association (RAFWARMA), held at RAF Cosford on 23-24 Apr 16. Entry forms
may be obtained at http://www.rafwarma.co.uk or via email to [email protected]. The
closing date for entries into the RAF 2-Day March is 26 Feb 16.
b.
SGM. The Scottish Garelochhead (SGM) 2-Day Marches held at Garelochhead
Training Camp on 30 Apr- 1 May 16. Entry forms may be obtained at
www.scottish2daymarches.co.uk or via email to [email protected]. The closing date for
entries into the SGM is 31 Mar 16.
12. Local qualification. In exceptional circumstances, teams may apply to qualify for the
Exercise Nijmegen Marches at events other than those mentioned in para 11. This may only be
done with prior approval from the NMRO. Local qualification should be a last resort if there is no
other way of attending one of the formal events. In this case TLs will be required to provide the
NMRO with confirmation from the event organisers that each team member has completed the
event. After obtaining authorization from the NMRO, the local qualification request paperwork can
be downloaded from the BMC website.
13. Reserves/replacements. TLs should ensure that sufficient personnel are available as fully
trained reserves/replacements to allow for non-availability of selected team members. Due to
Stichting De 4DAAGSE restrictions, replacements of personnel are not permitted after 31 May 16.
Only withdrawals and minor amendments (initials, date of birth etc) will be accepted beyond this
date.
14. First-Time Team Leaders. Historically, the teams with the most issues and the highest
drop-out rates are those with First-Time Team Leaders (FTTL), even if that person has previously
completed the Marches as part of a team. Personnel who will be FTTL are strongly encouraged
(mandatory for ACO FTTL) to attend the Nijmegen Marches FTTL Weekend, organised by
RAFWARMA and held at RAF Cosford over 19-20 Mar 16. At this event, FTTL will complete a
march of 40km per day over 2 consecutive days whilst experienced BMC and RAFWARMA staff
will pass on their experience as well as giving briefings and practical instruction on such matters as
foot care, marching skills etc. A comprehensive brief and aide memoire for all TLs is at Annex B.
Entry to the FTTL is separate to Nijmegen Marches or any qualifying event entry. Entry is via the
RAFWARMA website (www.rafwarma.co.uk); the entry deadline is 19 Feb 16.
Exercise Nijmegen Marches entry procedures
15. General. The entry procedure for all BMC participants is conducted through the NMRO.
Detailed instructions for each stage are published on the BMC website and all TLs are encouraged
to monitor this site regularly as new information will be posted throughout the months preceding
the Nijmegen Marches. The process is divided into the following stages:
a.
Stage 1: Initial registration. During Stage 1, teams submit their initial bids for places
as part of the BMC in accordance with para 9. A TM (the person who will deal with all
administration of the team until deployment to Nijmegen in July) is nominated, along with the
TL who will control the team whilst on the March; these can be the same individual. At this
stage no specific details are required regarding the remaining members of the team but fees
are collected for the size of team declared. Commanding Officers are required to submit
approval for this funding and for the release of their personnel at this stage (see para 17) –
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note CO approval is not required for Air Cadet Organisation (ACO) teams as selection of
teams is conducted through HQ Air Cadets. Teams must embark on a formal programme of
training in accordance with para 10 and must declare the events at which they intend to
qualify all members of their team, see para 11. Teams wishing to qualify personnel at events
other than those listed in para 11, or those who wish to march as individuals, are to seek
permission from the NMRO during this stage.
b.
Stage 2: Team member declaration. At this stage TMs/TLs must submit the details
of each member of their team. This will include date of birth, next of kin, and number of
previously completed Nijmegen Marches together with the individual’s 4Daagse Registration
Number (these details are to be validated against the 4Daagse database). Any special
dietary requirements must also be notified at this stage. Cadet teams will be required to
supply proof of age documents, and complete consent forms and health certificates for all
members of their team. It is the TM/TL’s responsibility to ensure the details for each marcher
are correct. All team members are to have completed a qualifying event by the Stage 2
deadline. Teams who fail to submit all required information and/or qualify their personnel
before the Stage 2 deadline will be moved onto the reserve list.
c.
Stage 3: Final confirmation. In Stage 3 TLs/TMs are required to submit detailed
travel plans for their team along with at least 2 mobile telephone numbers which will be used
by the BMC to contact teams in cases of emergency. BMC identity cards will be issued to
personnel as necessary (see para 33). Where possible, teams with less than 11 personnel
will be combined at the discretion of the BMC Committee prior to deployment.
d.
Stage 4: Arrivals. During Stage 4 the NMRO will issue arrival instructions including an
emergency contact telephone number to all TLs/TMs. Teams will travel out to Nijmegen,
arriving between 1200 and 1700hrs on the Saturday prior to the march and will be processed
by BMCSS. Accommodation will be allocated at this point and all personnel will receive a
mandatory security and H&S brief before being allowed off camp.
e.
Stage 5: Marches. Stage 5 covers the Nijmegen Marches themselves.
f.
Stage 6: Post event. All participants will depart Heumensoord Camp between 0700
and 1000 on the Saturday after the march concludes. A Post Exercise Report (PXR) will be
produced and statistics will be compiled and published. TL/TM are asked to submit
comments/suggestions at this point.
16. Submissions. At all stages, entries are to be submitted electronically in the form of emails
with attachments. Units may only submit paper copies with the express permission of the NMRO.
All documents must be sent in Microsoft Office 97-2003 format.
17. CO approval. During initial entry all units/participants are required to obtain approval from
their budget holders (usually the unit CO). By giving this approval, COs are committing to pay
accommodation and messing charges from their UIN(s) for all personnel included on the Initial
Entry Form, regardless of whether or not those individuals eventually travel to Nijmegen. They are
also agreeing to release their personnel for the period of the marches and are certifying that their
personnel will undertake a formal training programme, will be suitably prepared to complete the
event, will deploy medically fit and with the appropriate documentation. Where teams consist of
members from multiple units, approval is required from ALL affected COs. In order to demonstrate
CO approval TLs/TMs should email their completed Initial Entry Form to the COs of all participants
(to cover all UINs liable). The CO must then reply to this email (back to the TL/TM), including their
electronic signature block and a statement of “entry approved” or similar in their message. The
entire email trail and the DIN Annex A attachment should then be forwarded to the NMRO. Entries
will not be accepted until email approval from all COs has been received by the NMRO by the
stage 1 deadline. Note: ACO teams are not required to obtain CO approval as selection is
conducted through HQ Air Cadets.
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18. Civilian entry procedures. Personnel wishing to enter the Nijmegen Marches as civilians
are to do so through the civilian registration route. Details of these procedures may be found at the
following website: www.4daagse.nl/. Personnel who register in this way are not supported by the
BMC, are not to wear uniform, are not classed as being on duty and are responsible for their own
travel and insurance arrangements. Civilian marchers cannot be accommodated at Heumensoord
Camp. Duplicate registrations (personnel who apply to march both as part of the BMC and as
civilians) are monitored by the Stichting De 4DAAGSE and these personnel will have both
registrations blocked, denying them any entry into the Marches.
Charges and allowances
19. Entry fees. Entry fees for the Nijmegen Marches are set each year by the Stichting De
4DAAGSE and are published in the Exercise Nijmegen Marches DIN. Please note that these fees
may vary from the figure given in the DIN if the exchange rates vary dramatically. Entry fees for all
units are due at Stage 1 of the entry process. Entry fees are not chargable to public funds and are
to be met by individuals or Unit non-public funds. The entry fee is non-refundable after the stage 1
deadline. Entry fees can be paid by BACS or cheque as follows:
a.
Payment by BACS. If paying by BACS, teams and individuals, regardless of service,
are to transfer the fees to the following account by the stage 1 deadline:
Bank Name:
HSBC
Account Name: RAF Nijmegen Fund
Sort Code:
40-34-08
Account Number: 41581228
Payment Reference: To allow the payment to be tracked, teams are to use their
team name and BMC Reference number (if known) as the payment reference.
b.
Payment by cheque. If paying by cheque, teams and Individuals, regardless of
service, are to send a cheque for the correct amount (£47 x number of places bid for) to the
NMRO at the address given in para 4 to arrive before the stage 1 deadline. Cheques should
be made payable as follows:
1)
Land entries. Cheque payable to “Central Bank Bielefeld Station”. The team
name should be quoted on the back of the cheque.
2)
RAF entries. Cheque payable to “RAF Nijmegen Fund”. The team name
should be quoted on the back of the cheque.
20. Accommodation and messing. All military marchers will be accommodated at
Heumensoord Camp. A brief on facilities provided at the camp is at Annex C. Accommodation
and messing charges of approximately €250 per person are charged by the Dutch Military
Authorities and will be paid in bulk by HQ BFG according to the nominal rolls submitted by each
team/individual at Stage 1 of the entry process. Recovery of these charges will be conducted as
follows:
a.
Land-sponsored participants. Accommodation and messing charges will be claimed
back via Unit Budget Identity Numbers (UINs). Before submitting the Stage 1 entry proforma,
TLs are to ensure that budget holders, usually the Unit CO, are prepared to pay these
charges for their personnel. Once teams have received acceptance confirmation of their
Stage 1 entry from the NMRO, the Unit will be liable for the charges irrespective of whether
those personnel actually participate in the Exercise Nijmegen Marches or not. If a quoted
UIN proves to be inaccurate, the TL will be held financially responsible.
b.
RAF-sponsored participants. Accommodation and messing charges will be claimed
back via Unit Budget Identity Numbers (UINs). Before submitting the Stage 1 entry proforma,
6
TLs are to ensure that budget holders, usually the Unit CO, are prepared to pay these
charges for their personnel. Once teams have received acceptance confirmation of their
Stage 1 entry from the NMRO, the Unit will be liable for the charges irrespective of whether
those personnel actually participate in the Exercise Nijmegen Marches or not. If a quoted
UIN proves to be inaccurate, the TL will be held financially responsible.
c.
ACO participants. As a result of decisions made at the Air Cadet Management Board
(ACMB) meeting in 2011 ACO teams will now be required to make the following contributions
to entry, accommodation and messing charges:
(1) Entry fees. The General Purpose Fund (GPF) will no longer pay for BMC team
entry fees; participants will now be required to pay the entry fees themselves. This
payment (1 cheque per team) is to be sent to the NMRO to arrive before the Stage 1
deadline.
(2) Accommodation and messing. Whilst HQ Air Cadets (HQAC) will still fund the
majority of the accommodation and messing charges for ACO participants, all entrants
will be required to pay a personal contribution (the value of which is set by HQAC in
Jan each year).
21. Charges for living-in personnel. Personnel who occupy single living accommodation and
from whom the accommodation and messing charges are deducted at source are to have these
charges refunded for the period of detachment on the Exercise.
22. Pay and local overseas allowance. All members of the BMC will be on duty during, and
whilst travelling to, the Exercise Nijmegen Marches. Heumensoord Camp is assessed as field
conditions for the duration of the Marches. For all personnel, the eligibility to claim any other
allowances will be dictated by the individual's circumstances. Unit HR departments should be
contacted by the individual to clarify their potential entitlement to any allowances. Reserve
personnel may count participation in the Marches as voluntary out-of-camp training, the necessary
number of days required being found from within their Unit entitlement. ACF/CCF Officers and
SNCO Instructors will be eligible for pay within the appropriate annual entitlement. The number of
Paid Training Days (PTDs) for ACO adult staff will be capped by HQAC.
Movements
23. General. Teams and individuals are responsible for their own travel arrangements between
their home unit and Nijmegen. The NMRO is able to advise recommended routes and modes of
travel. Teams are required to complete a Notification of Movements proforma at Stage 3 of the
entry process.
24. Arrival. All BMC participants are to arrive at Heumensoord Camp between 1200 and 1700
hrs on Sat 16 Jul 16. This window is set by the Dutch Military Authorities and is out of the hands of
the BMC Staff. Teams who attempt to arrive before 1200 on Sat 16 Jul 16 will be refused entry
and their transport will not be permitted to wait along the entrance drive. TLs are to ensure that
coach companies are aware of this restriction and arrange pickup times and ferry crossings
accordingly.
25. Departure. All participants are to vacate their accommodation at Heumensoord Camp
between 0700 and 1000 hrs on Sat 23 Jul 16. Under no circumstances will any extension of this
deadline be granted and units are responsible for ensuring that in planning transport to/from
Nijmegen all UK and European regulations regarding driver rest periods and fitness of the vehicle
are met. Before departure, all personnel are to ensure their accommodation and the surrounding
area is clean, tidy and free from rubbish. All teams and Individual entrants will be required to clear
with a member of the BMC admin staff before they will be allowed to depart Heumensoord Camp.
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26. Modes of transport. Personnel may travel to and from Nijmegen via any mode of transport.
However, the following information must be considered:
a.
Cars. Personnel are not to take private cars to Nijmegen. No parking facilities for
these vehicles are available.
b.
Minibuses. Minibuses are a popular choice for teams and may enter Heumensoord
Camp to drop off and pick up personnel on the days of arrival and departure. They are not
however, permitted to remain on Camp for the whole period of the detachment and, once
unloaded, must be driven to a nearby Dutch Barracks where they will be parked under the
control of the BMC staff. Once parked, no access to these vehicles will be permitted until the
day of departure. Transport will be provided to ferry the drivers of these vehicles to and from
Heumensoord Camp on arrival/departure days only. Teams arriving by minibus are to
provide details of ferry crossings along with an ETA during Stage 3 of the entry process.
c.
Civilian coaches. Civilian coaches may enter Heumensoord Camp for drop off and
pick up only. No parking facilities or accommodation for drivers of civilian coaches are
available at Heumensoord Camp. Teams arriving by civilian coach are to provide the NMRO
with the name of the coach company and an ETA.
d.
Air travel. Amsterdam Schiphol and Weeze Niederrhein are the most conveniently
placed airports for Nijmegen. Rail links between Schiphol and Nijmegen are excellent and
take approximately 2hrs whilst for a small charge a pre booked shuttle bus exists between
Weeze and Nijmegen. This takes approximately 1 hr. If travelling by air, teams are to
provide the NMRO with flight details and an ETA.
e.
Rail travel. Transport between Nijmegen Railway Station and Heumensoord Camp is
usually provided by a local bus service. Teams should be aware that the BMC cannot
guarantee that this service will be available, particularly for departure on Sat 23 Jul 16.
Teams arriving by train are to provide the NMRO with an ETA for Nijmegen Railway Station.
27. Overloading. For safety and legal reasons, TLs are to ensure that transport used to convey
their personnel to and from Nijmegen is not overloaded. A 12-seater minibus is rarely suitable for
carrying a team of 12 marchers plus all of their equipment. Two such vehicles, or a minibus plus
trailer would normally be required.
28. Non-marching drivers. There are no facilities for accommodation or messing for nonmarching drivers on Heumensoord Camp. Individual units are therefore responsible for arranging
food and accommodation for any non-marching drivers for the period of the detachment. Marchers
are permitted to self-drive; however, no marchers will be allowed to drive for at least 12 hours after
completing any marching event.
29. Funding for travel. Teams are responsible for their own travel arrangements to Nijmegen.
At the discretion of a unit’s CO, travel may be funded from public funds as participation in the NM
is classed as a military training exercise as per the DIN. Units are to seek advice from their CO
and budget managers before any commitments to travel expenses are made. ACO teams may
claim back from HQAC, through their respective Wings, for the portion of their travel costs incurred
within the borders of the UK. ACO team costs for onward travel outside of the UK are their own
responsibility, however Wings may fund this at the Wing budget manager's discretion and team
leaders are encouraged to discuss this with their Wing before making their travel arrangements.
30. Notification of movements. For security purposes all TLs and Individual Entrants are to
complete the Notification of Movements proforma issued by the NMRO during Stage 3 of the entry
process.
8
Documentation and insurance
31. Entry paperwork. All paperwork associated with the entry process is to be completed
before the associated deadlines as specified in the DIN. Failure to do so will result in the team
being moved onto the reserve list until all administration is completed properly.
32. Passports. All personnel are to be in possession of a valid passport for the duration of the
detachment.
33. Identity cards. All personnel are to be in possession of either a Service or BMC ID card for
the period of detachment as detailed below:
a.
Service ID cards. All personnel with service ID cards, such as the form MOD 90 are
to ensure that these are in a state of good repair. The ID card will be required to gain access
to Heumensoord Camp.
b.
BMC identity cards. All cadets and Adult Staff not in possession of a Service ID card
will be issued with a BMC identity card by the NMRO prior to deployment to Nijmegen. TLs
will be responsible for ensuring these cards are completed properly and laminated in time for
the Marches. Each participant will require a passport sized photograph to attach to the card.
34. Medical insurance. Costs for medical treatment abroad can be very expensive and TLs are
to ensure that participants have sufficient medical insurance for the period of the Marches. All
personnel are to carry a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) at all times. E111 forms
are no longer valid and are not to be used. EHICs may be obtained free of charge from any Post
Office or on-line at www.ehic.org.uk. It should be noted that the cover provided by the EHIC may
not meet the full costs of some medical treatment in Europe. For ACO entrants, sickness/medical
insurance cover is now mandatory. These fees are set by HQ Air Cadets and are due during
Stage 3 of the entry process. Although not mandated, other cadet participants are advised to
follow this direction.
35. Personal insurance. All personnel are to be aware of the need to safeguard their personal
belongings and equipment, particularly items of uniform or expensive pieces of equipment, during
the period of the Marches. Personnel are strongly advised to take out personal insurance to cover
loss/damage to their own belongings and Service issued items. Personnel will only be classed as
on duty when travelling to and from Nijmegen and when on the Marches themselves. It is
therefore recommended that all personnel take out adequate travel insurance including personal
accident cover to cover accidents which may occur during other periods.
Dress regulations and equipment requirements
36. General. All members of each team are to be similarly dressed. No mixture of long or shortsleeved shirts or mixture of trousers is permitted within a team. TLs are to inspect uniforms before
departure from parent Units.
37. Authority to wear uniform. Only those individuals selected to march as part of the BMC
are authorised to march in uniform. Teams and individuals who register through the civilian entry
process are not part of the BMC and are not on duty. Therefore, they may not wear uniform at any
time whilst in Nijmegen. It is an offence to wear uniform in a foreign country without authority.
38. Marching dress. Marching dress for BMC participants is to be temperate issue combat
uniform as follows:
a.
Beret or Regimental headdress.
b.
Brown/OG T-shirt.
9
c.
Lightweight jacket/shirt (either PCS(CU), interim MTP or CS95).
Note: Combat smocks/jackets may also be worn. Under Body Armour Combat Shirts
(UBACS) and unit polo/sweatshirts are not to be worn. Only cadet participants may wear
Shirt Blue, OG or KD.
d.
Combat trousers (either PCS(CU), interim MTP or CS95).
Note: Only cadet participants may wear trousers lightweight OG.
e.
Hi-leg military style boots (either brown or black).
f.
Waterproof jacket or poncho when required (either PCS(CU), interim MTP or CS95).
Note: It is mandatory for personnel to deploy with a waterproof.
g.
British Military-Style Webbing/Bergen.
(1) Male marchers. Ballasted to 10kg dead-weight for those aged 19 to 49 in
accordance with para 8. Personnel are to make their own arrangements for this
weight. Sand ballast will be available at Heumensoord Camp in the lead up to the
Marches.
(2) Female marchers. Ideally, even in mixed teams, females should carry only a
webbing belt with water bottle and single pouch rather than a full set of webbing or full
Bergen.
h.
Brassards (optional). Blue or OG with small union flag on each arm; Unit crest may
also be worn.
39.
Equipment. A comprehensive equipment list is given at Annex D.
40. Formal parades. Detailed information regarding specific dress and equipment requirements
for the formal events detailed in the following paragraphs is given in Annex D.
Formal parades
41. Opening ceremony. Due to budgetary constraints it is unlikely that there will be an Opening
ceremony in 2016.
42. British Reception. Each year at Nijmegen a series of formal evening receptions are held,
during which the Heads of the various Military Delegations take it in turns to host local dignitaries,
Stichting De 4DAAGSE officials and representatives from the other delegations. The British
reception is held at Heumensoord Camp and is a great opportunity for personnel to socialise with
marchers and support staff from other nations whilst hosting guests with the best of British
hospitality. The location, day and timings for the British reception will be advertised at the British
Administration Centre, where personnel wishing to attend are to register their interest. Dress for
personnel attending the British Reception is given at Annex D.
43. Final march past. The finish point for all military participants is Nijmegen city centre (prior to
2010 it was Charlemagne Field, 5km short of the city centre). This change incorporates the Final
March Past into the regulation distance and the routes over the four days have been reduced
elsewhere to reflect this change. The Final March Past is conducted as a formal military parade
and as such the entire BMC will assemble at Charlemagne Field before completing the final 5km in
one column. On completion of the Final March Past, all personnel will then be transported back to
Heumensoord Camp by bus. Points to note on the Final March Past are as follows:
10
a.
All participants must complete the final march past from Charlemagne Field to
Nijmegen centre by 1700. Personnel who do not complete the distance before this time will
be disqualified from the March and will not receive an award.
b.
In order to celebrate their achievement, marchers who successfully reach
Charlemagne Field will receive their march award prior to commencing the Final March Past.
However, marchers who subsequently fail to complete the final 5km will be disqualified and
will have their awards revoked.
c.
Males ages 19 to 49 are to carry 10kgs ballast weight on the final march past.
44. Final march past procedures. Detailed information on procedures for the final march past
will be promulgated by BMC staff during the period of the Marches.
Discipline and security
45. Conduct. Although the Exercise Nijmegen Marches are not a formal military parade, they
are a prestigious international Marching event and personnel participating as part of the BMC are
representing Her Majesty’s Armed Forces. As such the highest standards of conduct, dress,
bearing and discipline are required at all times, both on and off the march.
46. Discipline. All BMC personnel are subject to normal military discipline and, whilst in
Holland, come under the overall command of the Head of the BMC. TLs are personally
responsible at all times for the welfare, discipline and behaviour of their team members throughout
their stay at Nijmegen, both on and off duty. Where there is evidence of ill discipline there will be
no hesitation in removing teams or individuals from the Marches.
47. Military police. A British Military Police Detachment will be present at Heumensoord Camp
for the period of the Marches. The British Military Police work in close liaison with the Dutch
Military and Civil Police, as well as other foreign national military police detachments to maintain
discipline and security in Heumensoord Camp and in the town of Nijmegen.
48. Security. The Dutch Military Authorities strictly control access to Heumensoord Camp. In
addition to their personal Service/BMC ID cards all personnel will be issued with Heumensoord
Camp Security Passes. These passes are to be carried at all times along with personal
Service/BMC ID cards and both must be produced in order to gain entry to the Camp. Certificates
in lieu of Service ID cards will not be accepted. A security brief on the current situation and threat
to UK forces personnel will form part of the arrivals process at Camp Heumensoord.
49. Safety. During the Nijmegen Marches and associated summer festival, the atmosphere
within Nijmegen city is generally one of safety and friendship. However, personnel should
remember that there have been cases of muggings and assaults on individuals in the past. When
outside Heumensoord Camp it is advisable to do so in groups of at least 2 or 3. At least one
member of the team should be on Sharkwatch when outside of Heumensoord Camp.
50. Uniform outside camp. For security reasons military uniform is not to be worn outside
Heumensoord Camp except when participating in the Marches themselves. At all times, civilian
dress should be of a high standard.
51. Minimum dress. Whilst in any area of Heumensoord Camp, including to and from shower
blocks the minimum dress standard is shorts and T-shirt. Towels worn around the waist are not
acceptable. This applies to male and female personnel alike. This dress standard also applies in
the medical facility.
11
Publicity and visits
52. Publicity brief. TLs are encouraged to prepare a publicity brief on their team in order for
media coverage to be collected in a controlled manner. The BMC Protocol and Media Officer will
prepare formal media statements as and when required.
53. Visits. TLs are to notify the NMRO if Commanding Officers wish to visit their Unit’s teams
during the Nijmegen Marches. This must be done by the Stage 3 deadline. In order for the NMRO
to ensure that the relevant security passes are obtained, full details of all visiting personnel will be
required. TLs are to brief their Commanding Officers of the following:
a.
Dutch Military Authorities will not permit personnel to enter Heumensoord Camp
without prior arrangement.
b.
Vehicles are not permitted on the marching routes or on Heumensoord Camp.
c.
No overnight accommodation/messing is available for visitors at Heumensoord Camp.
d.
Personnel (including COs) may not take part in the Final March Past unless they have
personally completed all 4 days of the Nijmegen Marches.
March awards
54. Nijmegen Marches medal. Each marcher who successfully completes the Nijmegen
Marches will receive the Nijmegen Marches Medal. This award is in the form of a gilded bronze
cross, bearing the inscription of the KNBLO, suspended on a gold and green striped ribbon. On
completion of successive Marches the award takes the form of either a numbered brooch or
differently coloured cross.
55. Team award. In order for a team to qualify for the additional Team Award, at least 90% of
the original team must complete the Marches successfully. The team award is in the form of a
gilded bronze medallion.
56. BMC awards. The BMC presents awards to the best teams in a number of categories
including best Land team and best RAF team. These awards are judged on all respects of a
team’s performance and conduct during the period of the Marches.
Miscellaneous information
57. Medical support. Medical support is provided by trained medical staff at Heumensoord
Camp and at the main rest areas along each day’s route. Notwithstanding this support, TLs should
be aware of the physical strains that will be placed on the body during the Marches and should
have, at least, a basic knowledge of first aid and foot care. A comprehensive list of the main
conditions which may be encountered, along with prevention methods and suggested treatment is
given at Annex E. Each member of the team should carry a personal blister treatment kit and it is
strongly suggested that one member of each team should be detailed to carry a more substantial
team first aid kit. Suggested content for first aid kits is given at Annex E.
58. Compulsory drug testing. All participants are to be aware that compulsory drug testing
may be carried out at any time during deployment.
59. RAF WARMA. The Royal Air Force Walking and Road Marching Association (RAF WARMA)
exists to promote the sport of walking within the RAF and its sister services. It organises one of
the largest walking events in the UK, the RAF 2 Day March, and there are many benefits of
membership. Membership is open to all regular and reserve forces personnel. Further details can
be found at www.rafwarma.co.uk, or by visiting the RAF WARMA Facebook page.
12
Conclusion
60. Summary. The Exercise Nijmegen Marches have been enjoyed by thousands of British
personnel since 1950. The event is physically and mentally demanding and brings the British
Military into the public eye in an International arena. In order to complete the Exercise successfully
and uphold the excellent reputation built up by the BMC over the years all participants must
complete a serious programme of preparation and training. By adhering to the regulations laid
down by the BMC and by heeding advice from experienced Marchers the exercise will be enjoyed
by all participants.
61. Further information. Further information about BMC entry procedures may be found at
www.bmcnijmegen.org. TMs/Leaders should monitor this website regularly as important updates
and information will be posted in the months leading up to the Exercise. General information on
the Nijmegen Four Days Marches is given at www.4Daagse.nl. For specific information or advice
units and individuals should contact the NMRO as detailed in the current DIN.
Annexes:
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
A Short History of the Nijmegen International Four Days Marches.
Team Leader Aide Memoire.
Heumensoord Camp Facilities Brief.
Dress Regulations and Equipment Lists.
Medical Brief: Care of Body and Sole.
13
Annex A to
NM JS EP&GI Booklet
A SHORT HISTORY OF THE NIJMEGEN INTERNATIONAL FOUR DAYS MARCHES
1.
The Four Days Marches, held annually in Nijmegen, is the world’s largest walking event and
its popularity can be, at least partly, attributed to the very special atmosphere the surrounds the
city for the duration of the Marches. Throughout the Marches spectators present flowers to teams
and individuals who impress them with their performance. In addition, the local children like to get
involved as much as they can and do a lot for the morale of marchers. Local schools hold
competitions for the best autographs and souvenirs collected by the children and units are
encouraged to bring stickers/badges etc to keep this tradition going. Some children will simply
wish to hold the hand of a marcher and walk a short distance with them before returning to their
family and repeating the process with a new team. In Nijmegen itself, the festival associated with
the Marches draws almost one million people to the city and the spirit of friendship and celebration
that is present throughout the week creates an exceptional experience for everyone who takes
part.
2.
But where did it all start? In the Autumn of 1904, sergeants from the Dutch Army’s 6th
Infantry Regiment in Breda founded a football club. On the first anniversary of the formation of the
club, the soldiers organised a tournament which became the annual Field Army Sports Day. By
1908 the success of this initiative had motivated various sports and social associations to set up an
umbrella organisation in The Hague known as the Nederlandse Bond voor Lichamelijke Opvoeding
(NbvLO). Within a few months 40 organisations had joined the NbvLO and in May 1908 the
organisation received its Royal Statute making it De Koninklijke Nederlandse Bond voor
Lichamelijke Opvoeding (KNBLO) which roughly translates to the Royal Dutch League for Physical
Culture.
3.
In 1909 the KNBLO developed an idea to organise a Four Days March to the Breda sports
day and on 1 Sep, 306 military participants, accompanied by 10 civilians, set out from ten barracks
on the 150km walk, following 15 routes from garrison to garrison. In recognition of the
achievement, a decoration, known as the Four Days Cross, was recognised by Queen Wilhelmina
and given to all participants.
4. In 1910 the KNBLO limited its Four Days March to one route and over the next few years
(with the exception of 1914 and 1915 due to World War I when no marches were held) the starting
point or focus for the march varied from place to place. In 1925 Nijmegen, the oldest city in the
Netherlands, became the permanent home of the Four Days Marches.
5.
Throughout these early years, civilians were encouraged to attend and in 1919 the first
women successfully completed the march. In 1928, to coincide with the Olympic Games being
held in Amsterdam, foreign delegations were invited to take part for the first time. Entries came
from the United Kingdom, France, Germany and Norway. By 1932 civilian participation had
overtaken military entries and the fame of the event was increasing rapidly. However, in 1939 the
Four Days Marches were suspended for the duration of World War II.
6.
Despite the problems of the immediate post war period over 4,000 people participated in the
first post-war march in 1946, including a detachment of Belgian paratroopers who caused a
sensation by arriving by parachute. The area around Nijmegen is full of World War II history and
the March routes cross the famous Nijmegen Bridge, Groesbeek Heights at the edge of the
Reichwald and a number of other war cemeteries.
7.
It is believed that some pre-war British entries may have been servicemen on leave, but the
first recorded team entry was from Royal Air Force (Germany) in 1950. In the following year, the
2nd Battalion Grenadier Guards and 37 (HAA) Battery Royal Artillery were the first recorded British
Army team entries. Since then the numbers of British military teams and individual entrants have
A-1
increased so that today the British Military Contingent (BMC) represents approximately 20% of the
total military participants. These are drawn mainly from the Regular Army and Royal Air Force,
their associated Volunteer Reserves and the various Service affiliated youth organisations.
8.
In around 1985 demand for accommodation for the military participants prompted the site at
Heumensoord to be used for the first time and the size of the camp limits the International Military
Contingents to some 5,000 personnel. The fact that the British are allowed such a large
percentage of this figure is testament to the fantastic standing our contingent holds with both the
KNBLO and the Dutch people.
9.
Year on year the popularity of the Four Days Marches increases and in the year 2000 some
48,000 people, representing over 50 nations participated. Since 2003, responsibility for organising
the Nijmegen International Four Days Marches has been delegated to Stichting De 4DAAGSE, a
subsidiary organisation of the KNBLO. This change means that the march is controlled by a
dedicated team of people, ensuring best practice and continued improvement year upon year.
Also since 2004 the number of entrants has been limited to 47,000 people.
10. In 2006, the 90th Four Days Marches, unprecedented temperatures forced the event to be
cancelled after just one day due to the death of one participant and the high percentage of walkers
treated for heat related problems. Marchers who completed the first day received a remembrance
pin and a collection of unique memories. You will hear them say “I was there!”
11. The countdown has now begun to the 100th anniversary of the Four days Marches which will
happen in Jul 2016. To plan for this event the Stichting DE 4DAAGSE have set up a special
committee which will be called Stichting Honderdste Vierdaagse (One Hundredth Four Days
Marches Foundation). The 100th event is expected to be even more spectacular than usual,
though for safety reasons on the route participant numbers are not expected to increase
dramatically. Keep up to date with announcements relating to the 100th march via
www.4daagse.nl/en.
A-2
Annex B to
NM JS EP&GI Booklet
AIDE MEMOIRE FOR TEAM LEADERS
Introduction
1.
The performance of a team at the Nijmegen Marches depends largely on the quality of the
TL; he or she is responsible for the fitness, performance, conduct and behaviour as well as the
physical and mental well-being of each member of the team. This responsibility commences with
the formation of the team, continues throughout the training and preparation period, through the
Marches themselves and does not cease until the team has safely returned to their unit. TLs are
personally responsible for all aspects of administration and for their team’s conduct during their
time at Nijmegen.
2.
Participation in the Nijmegen Marches is physically demanding and a considerable amount of
strain is placed upon a marcher’s mental and physical resources. The event is also one in which
the British Military Contingent (BMC) is representing HM Forces in an international arena, with all
the attendant requirements for maintaining the highest standards of discipline and conduct. These
requirements place particular emphasis upon the need for sound leadership. The need to exercise
firm control at all times, without stifling the enjoyment of the event, is particularly important.
3.
For military participants, the Nijmegen Marches is primarily a team event and each team is
expected to complete the Marches successfully, in good order and with the team intact. Every
team entered should, barring any unforeseen accidents, qualify for a team award. The Marches
are not competitive and are not a test of speed, but they do require proper training and a good
team spirit to ensure success. Both of these factors are very much the responsibility of the TLs,
who should engender team spirit with regular training sessions for the whole team and should
resist entering personnel who are not properly prepared for the event. It is the team which finishes
with spirit and style that wins the plaudits of the crowd and whose personnel take away the highest
feelings of pride and enjoyment.
4.
TLs are to be commissioned officers or substantive SNCOs. To assist a TL in his many
responsibilities a deputy TL is to be nominated. The deputy TL should, if possible, be an
experienced marcher.
5.
A TL must remember the need to lead by example if he or she is to get the best from the
team. A TL will need to be fitter, smarter and more cheerful than any other member of the team.
He or she must always be mindful of the team’s strengths and weaknesses and give
encouragement and praise when it is due.
Training
6.
Long distance marching is a well-established activity for many people. However, some seem
to give little thought to learning the skills required to make it enjoyable, and will unnecessarily find it
an ordeal. This is most noticeable in teams whose members are assembled at the beginning of a
marching event without having had any previous marching experience together. Those that are
going to march together must train together, and that training must cover:
a.
The physical fitness of each individual.
b.
The education of individuals in marching skills.
c.
Training individuals to be a member of the team.
d.
Establishing the team identity and spirit.
B-1
7.
There is only one method of training for long distance marching and that involves getting
plenty of miles “under the belt”. The aim should be to work up to, if not over, the distance involved
fairly quickly and then concentrate on improving fitness and techniques. The distance involved in
the early stages of training depends on the fitness of team members. Those leading a generally
active life would find 10 to 15 miles (15 – 25 km) no problem; those leading a sedentary life would
be wiser to start with something a bit shorter. In general, starting with marches below 6 miles (10
km) has little worthwhile training effect.
8.
The skill of marching is not in being able to walk a long distance in a day but in the ability to
repeat the performance the next day. Training should ideally include marches of the same
duration as the event. Long distance marching is not the kind of activity which will allow for
stragglers to be abandoned. Any member of a team who is not fit enough because he or she did
not take the training seriously may slow the team down so much that they finish late, even to the
point of disqualification.
9.
For military participants the Nijmegen Marches cover 100 miles (160 KM; 40km per day for 4
days). Seldom in military training are troops asked to cover such a distance and were they
required to do so a considerable amount of training would be necessary. Physical fitness of a high
order through personal effort is required, but this alone is not the passport to success at Nijmegen.
Those who fail are mostly those whose feet have let them down. Feet must be sufficiently hard to
withstand the constant pounding for mile after mile in all weathers. The recommended way to
achieve this is to train over a distance of at least 50 miles per week for several months before the
event and, for males, the training must be done carrying at least the minimum weight of 10 kgs (22
¼ lbs approximately). There is no point in training over long distances unless the feet and the
body are accustomed to the extra weight.
10. A brief on core marching skills is given in Appendix 1 to this Annex. TLs should use the
training marches to develop these skills in order to develop a flexible, disciplined team. Only by
doing this will a TL be able to manage the team effectively on the road and adapt to the changing
needs of individuals within the team.
11.
The following training points should also be taken into consideration by TLs:
a. All marchers require well fitting supple boots in a good state of repair; a leather
softener for the uppers should be used as necessary.
b. Those required to carry weight must start the training wearing their webbing or
rucksack ballasted to 10 kg dead weight (i.e. without food, water or other consumables).
Do not wait until arrival at Nijmegen; the effect can be quite devastating and very painful.
c. Teams must train together as often as possible. This is particularly important for mixed
teams who need to become accustomed to the differing lengths of stride.
d. Training should take place over hard, cobbled and cambered roads; marchers must get
used to the rhythm of marching as a group and learn to overcome boredom. When
marching on cambered roads a team should, wherever possible, march on the crown of the
road.
e. March discipline in hot weather must be learned. The importance of drinking plenty of
water at regular intervals cannot be over-emphasised. Marchers have died of heat
exhaustion at Nijmegen but with proper training this danger can be easily avoided. If teams
fail to complete the Marches through damaged feet or heat exhaustion it will be self-inflicted
through poor training. This is inexcusable.
12. With proper training a team will find it relatively easy to complete the Marches. However,
military participants are expected to march in step and maintain proper military bearing. Training
B-2
plays an essential part in presenting the correct image and it soon becomes painfully obvious to
the roadside observer if a team has not trained properly together.
KNBLO general march rules
13. A full list of rules issued by the Stichting De 4DAAGSE can be viewed at www.4Daagse.nl.
Violation of these rules will result in an official warning followed by disqualification. The main rules
are shown below:
a.
Speed-marching and running are forbidden.
b.
Marchers are not to make political propaganda.
c.
Hindering others or offensive conduct of any kind is forbidden.
d.
No commercial advertising is allowed.
e.
The marchers are not to strip down to the waist.
f.
The use of any kind of transport will result in disqualification.
g. Those required to carry 10 kg ballast will be disqualified if the weight carried is found to
be lacking when checked by officials at any time during the march.
March administration
14. Full details of the Stichting De 4DAAGSE and BMC march administration are contained
within other documents issued by the NMRO.
15. TLs are to ensure that their teams are briefed on all aspects of the Marches, including
administrative matters.
March routine
16. On each day the 40 km march starts from Heumensoord Camp between 0430 and 0600 hrs
and must be completed by 1700 hrs. Teams must keep strictly to the March routes; these are
clearly indicated by coloured arrows for the various marching categories. Military teams follow the
GREEN route arrows.
17.
The TL is to:
a.
Decide the marching pace and the number of rest halts.
b. Ensure that the team is properly dressed and equipped at the start of each day’s march
and that each marcher has sufficient food and water.
c. Brief the team on the length of each expected section, when and how long they are
expected to march for and for how long they may rest. This is particularly important
psychologically for those marchers who may be having difficulties.
d.
Stop in good time to enable injuries and blisters to be treated.
e. Ensure that team members’ feet are in good order at the end of each day’s marching.
Those marchers who require treatment are to be sent to the medical centre as soon as they
have showered.
B-3
March discipline
18. Dress. Teams are to be correctly dressed and properly equipped. Teams may remove
some layers of clothing and equipment for relief during long rests in one of the major rest areas.
They are not to strip off during short halts on the roadside.
19. Rest areas. Military rest areas are located on the route on each of the 4 marching days.
They are manned by Rest Area Detachments and provide first aid, refreshments and toilets. Each
national contingent is allocated an area within these rest area locations. TLs are to plan their main
rests at these areas; recommended rest periods are 10 minutes at the first, 25 minutes at the
second (main lunch break) and 10 minutes at the third. Times may vary depending on the
treatment required by team members and the number being treated. Teams will be marshalled on
arrival and are to comply with the directions given to them by the BMC Rest Area Detachment
personnel. Teams are to line their equipment up neatly and clear all rubbish and litter prior to
departure.
20. Compliments. TLs are to pay compliments to any senior officers, British or foreign, seen en
route. These normally gather with civil dignitaries in the centre of villages or in the rest areas. All
teams and individuals are to pay compliments when passing war memorials. Details of the location
of these memorials will be available from the British Administration Centre.
21. Flags and pennants. Teams may carry Union or Unit flags. TLs are to ensure that flags are
not a burden to the team; it is sensible to get used to the weight of carrying them during training.
Flags are to be inspected to ensure that their condition is good enough to appear before the public.
22. Speed. The Marches are not a race; attempting to race another team is frowned upon by
the Stichting De 4DAAGSE and BMC Staff as this is in conflict with the spirit of the event. The only
time limit imposed is that marchers should complete the distance by 1700 hrs each day. TLs are
not to drive their teams until they are exhausted; realistic targets are to be set, and reasonable rest
breaks given.
23. Drink. TLs are to ensure that marchers drink plenty of water, particularly in hot weather.
The consumption of alcoholic drinks whilst marching is forbidden. You should note that for every
litre of alcohol consumed, you lose 1.5 litres of body fluid, and dehydration rapidly occurs.
24. Control. TLs are to position themselves where they can see the whole team. This is
normally at the rear left or right of the team. It is very difficult for a TL to see what is going on
leading from the front.
25. Casualty procedures. Casualty reporting procedures will be detailed on arrival at
Heumensoord and re-emphasised at the TLs’ briefing on the Monday prior to the Marches.
Appendix:
1.
Marching skills
B-4
Appendix 1 to Annex B to
NM JS EP&GI Booklet
MARCHING SKILLS
Introduction
1.
Long distance marching, as its name implies, should be treated as a March and not as a
ramble. Historically, marching was developed from the need to make sure that troops arrived at
the same place at the same time and in the right formation to engage in battle. They were trained
to give a standard set of reactions to a standard set of clear, concise instructions. The same
requirement applies to a marching team at Nijmegen in that:
a.
The members of the team need to march at the same speed by keeping in step; this
also ensures that there are no stragglers.
b.
The team needs to be kept in a tight formation, once again preventing stragglers,
allowing easier control of its actions, and keeping it a lot safer in traffic.
2.
It is a common mistake to think that just because marching events are normally relaxed and
informal the team’s movements can be the same. All marching instructions given to a team must
be clear, concise and loud enough for the whole team to hear. This is the only way to control a
team in the noisy, crowded atmosphere of a march. Consequently, all training and the march itself
should be conducted in a manner similar to, but not as formal as, a drill parade. Marching ‘At
Ease’ (i.e. relaxed, natural arm-swinging), should be done as often as circumstances allow. The
team should march at attention when paying compliments, passing through towns and when
entering or leaving rest areas.
Marching speed
3.
The TL should adjust the speed of the team to suit the circumstances as the march
progresses. Long distance marching is not a competitive activity and most march event officials
will disqualify teams seen speed-marching, racing one another or running. However, a high speed
burst, once in a while, will do the team no harm providing all team members are in a fit enough
state to cope with the change in pace; it wakes up the team and breaks the monotony of the road.
The TL must remember that the faster the team marches, the hotter people get and the sooner
they become exhausted. When marching, there are 2 variables which govern speed:
a.
The rate of marching (i.e. paces per minute).
b.
The length of the pace.
Rate of marching
4.
The rate of marching is governed by the members of the team and should be one which
circumstances and comfort dictate. In the early stages of training it should be increased and
decreased until the most comfortable pace for the team is discovered. The pace-man or woman at
the front of the leading file sets the rate of marching. Anyone in this position will tend to march
slightly faster than his or her own natural speed and every member of the team will naturally walk
at a different speed. Everyone should be given the chance to try the job so that the TL can
discover their natural speed and see if they can maintain a steady rate for a long period. Some
people find it difficult to keep a constant rate when at the front and, if they are used as a pace-man
or woman, changes of step will continuously ‘ripple’ along the team. This is a huge source of
frustration for a tired team and will affect the harmony of the group. Once the TL has sorted out
the speed of each team member, he can change the speed of the team by changing the pace-man
or woman.
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Length of pace
5.
The length of pace should be 30 inches (75 cms) for normal marching, but the team should
be told to ‘STEP SHORT’ when going up hills or gradients; this involves reducing the length of
pace whilst maintaining the same rate. The reduced length of pace will depend on the steepness
of the hill but can go down to as little as 12 inches (30 cms). Taking a shorter pace will have the
same effect as changing gear in a car and reduces the effort required for the climb. A good
technique enabling the team to get up a hill or gradient should be worked out in training. A very
effective one used by many teams at Nijmegen is for the front half of the team to shout ‘PUSH’ on
the left foot, whilst the rear of the team shouts ‘HARDER’ on the right foot. Similarly, the team
should be told to ‘STEP SHORT’ when going downhill. Here the technique is to keep the knees
bent so that the leg muscles absorb the shock of the descent. The team will find it difficult to
maintain a shortened pace and will try to revert to normal, especially when going down-hill, but
should be held at a shorter pace until they are told to ‘STEP OUT’ at the bottom of the gradient.
Keeping in step
6.
In the early days of training the TL will have to devote a lot of effort into keeping the team in
step. They are, after all, a group of individuals taking different paces and walking at different
speeds. The TL will need to watch the feet of the team and call out the step as necessary. To
save a lot of breath etc, use the word ‘HUP’ on the left foot, instead of ‘LEFT, RIGHT etc’. There
is, though, a limit to how long a TL can keep this up before his or her voice gives out – or the team
rebels! This is one of the reasons for getting the team singing (see para 36).
7.
Team members will try to stay in step by watching the feet of the person in front. This should
be discouraged as it can lead to a form of mesmerisation, where the marcher is so intent on the
feet of the person in front that they lose touch with what is going on around them. Sometimes the
person stops listening and misses orders, and sometimes he or she will walk into things. It is
better if the team learns to keep track of the step by watching the arms of the person in front,
thereby keeping their heads up and staying alert.
8.
As the training progresses, the team will fall into step with each other much more readily, so
much so that the TL will have a job to stop them automatically picking up the step from other
teams, especially when being overtaken. The TL should learn to monitor the step by LISTENING
to the rhythm, which will alert the TL BEFORE the step actually falls apart, and will allow him or her
to warn the team. In this way the step can be maintained by gradual corrections rather than
irritating changes.
Rests
9.
In the early stages of training, marchers should be given ten minutes rest in every hour, but
as the training progresses this can be adjusted. If a team is training for an event such as the
Nijmegen Marches, the TL should bear in mind that there are 2 major rest areas located en route
on each marching day. Therefore, major rest breaks for the team should be arranged to coincide
with these rest areas.
10. Military teams are to use the military rest areas and should not normally stop by the roadside.
Stops should not be so long that they allow the team to cool down too much, nor too short to make
them of little use. Rest areas may be of limited space so ‘halting’ and ‘dismissing’ the team may
have to be carried out with care, so as not to hinder others. Before letting the team wander off,
brief them on what is expected of them. This may have to be done by collecting them together in
the sitting area after formally ‘dismissing’ them. Instruct those who wish to use the toilet facilities to
do so immediately. Similarly, those who need first aid (whether provided or self administered)
should seek treatment straight away and those who are fitter are to assist other members of the
team by helping to fill water bottles, fetch refreshments etc. The team should be given a 2 minute
warning before departure to give them time to adjust dress and put equipment back on, etc. The 2
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minute warning should not be used as a cue to head to the toilets. Remember, the 2 instructions
the team must react to when the rest period has ended are ‘TWO MINUTES’ and ‘FORM UP’.
Road safety
11. Since most of the team’s training will be done on roads carrying traffic, much of the TL’s
attention must be directed to the safety of the team. As already stated, complete control of the
team is a prime requisite for this; another is to have the team in the correct formation for the
conditions and to control its actions in a safety conscious manner. This is largely a matter of
common sense but can be summarised by the following basic rules:
a.
Except when in single file for a substantial period, the team should travel in the same
direction as the traffic on that side of the road, taking particular care at bends.
b.
Always place traffic guards ahead and behind the team to warn traffic of your presence
and slow them down. High visibility day-glow jackets are to be worn.
c.
Obey all traffic signs and signals as though you were a vehicle.
d.
The TL and his deputy should always march on the traffic side of the column.
e.
At Nijmegen those parts of the route which contain traffic are controlled by the Police.
Overtaking
12. All teams march at their own speed so it is inevitable that one team will have to overtake
another at some time. As with a vehicle, a team is at the greatest road safety risk while performing
this manoeuvre. Similarly, as with other drivers, you may find that some TLs take offence at the
possibility of being overtaken and do all in their power to prevent it. The process of overtaking
involves COURTESY and CONSIDERATION by both parties involved.
13. The overtaking team. Apply normal driving rules i.e. mirror-signal-mirror-manoeuvre.
Translated into marching terms this means:
a.
Check that it is safe to overtake. Do not overtake where approaching traffic might
be obscured or where there will not be time to complete the manoeuvre before reaching a
hazard or obstacle.
b.
Look behind to make sure the road is clear of traffic or other teams overtaking you.
c.
Let the TL in front know your intentions and, if necessary, get his or her agreement.
Where there is traffic, the outside man in the rear rank should give the appropriate hand
signal.
d.
Check again that it is safe to move. In traffic it is a good idea for one of the back men
to turn round and look back for the duration of the manoeuvre.
e.
Pull out and overtake. This may require the TL to change formation into single file
where space is limited, but bear in mind that the team will be twice its usual length and will
take twice as long to get past. This adds to the danger in traffic. Pulling out should be done
as smoothly as possible rather than by a sudden turn, which means that the team should not
be too close to the team in front when starting the manoeuvre.
f.
Unless the team is catching up and overhauling another team, it will need to accelerate
to get past as quickly as possible. Change the pace-man or woman if necessary, but ensure
that the team is not so tired that it cannot give that burst of speed when required.
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g.
Make sure that the BACK of the team is clear of the team being overtaken BEFORE
your team pulls back in. There is a tendency for the front men to pull in as soon as they are
clear, which causes the overtaking team to ‘snake’ round the front of the other team,
sometimes stopping them dead in their tracks; not a very popular move!
14. The team being overtaken. The role of the team being overtaken is not as passive as
might be first thought.
a.
Do not be obstructive. If a team wants to pass, let them, unless you can see some
reason why this might be dangerous for either team. If this is the case, let the other Team
Leader know what the problem is.
b.
Once the overtaking team has pulled out, the team being overtaken could help them
pass more quickly by ‘Stepping Short’.
c.
Once the 2 ranks pull level, there is a tendency for the team being overtaken to fall into
step with, and keep up with the overtaking team. This is not a deliberate act but merely the
result of months of training. The overtaken TL must be watchful and make sure that this
does not happen.
Taking a tow
15. Taking a tow occurs when one team attaches itself to the back of another. This may be done
for the following reasons:
a.
To make use of another team’s pace when your own team is tired.
b.
To socialise or learn the song another team are singing.
c.
To boost the morale of a team in dire straits.
16. At Nijmegen it is not unusual to see several teams linked this way in tandem. Teams should
not link up side by side as this might block the road to others behind. When linked, both teams
should keep the same step and sing the same songs. The rear team should be instructed to obey
the commands of the front TL as though he were their own. If they do not, there is a real danger of
one team colliding with the other if it should suddenly stop. The leading TL should warn those
behind if this is his or her intention. If either team wants to break the tow, the rear team should
step short until a clear gap exists. If they do not, the pace-man or woman in the rear team will
have a hard job getting out of step with the team in front and will stay linked. Teams should not
take a tow if the other team objects.
Time keeping
17. Form up time. Form up time is the time between a team being told to ‘Fall In’ and the order
to ‘Quick March’ being given, and is the area where teams waste the greatest amount of time. In
the early days of training the TL must instil the importance of a rapid form-up into the team.
Techniques to ensure a rapid form-up of the team include:
a.
Telling the team WHERE they are to re-form before dismissing the team at a rest area.
b.
Telling the team WHEN they are to re-form.
c.
Telling the team HOW they will re-form, i.e. in what formation. Adjustments can be
made once the team is back on the road.
d.
Getting the team to ‘Dress Off’ automatically as they fall in.
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e.
Giving the team the ‘2 Minutes’ warning for departure from rest areas.
f.
Keeping the team together as much as possible during rest periods.
18. Overall planning. The TL should work out a timetable for each marching day so that the
team knows what to expect and what is expected of them. Based on the team’s past performance,
the TL should:
a.
Roughly calculate how long the team will take to do the distance involved.
b.
Use this time to set start and finish times if these are variable.
c.
Establish where the major rest areas are and thus work out an estimated time of
arrival.
d.
Decide how long to stop at each rest point.
e.
Monitor progress and make adjustments to the schedule as necessary, being careful
not to spoil the team’s enjoyment of the march.
March formations
19. File formation (2-a-breast). File is the ideal formation because each marcher has someone
next to him or her to talk to and keep step with. Since the team is half the length of the single file
formation it makes control a lot easier for the TL and greatly increases the sociability of the team
members, and hence their enjoyment of the march. It should be used at all times when safety and
circumstances permit but NEVER when facing traffic on roads.
20. Single file formation. Single file formation should be used on roads where there is no
footpath or where conditions get a bit crowded. When used on roads, always march on the side of
the road facing the oncoming traffic, with the TL and deputy in a file on the traffic side of the
column.
21. Changing formations. Changing formation on the march can affect a team’s dressing, step
and morale if not carried out with care. It should be practiced so that it becomes second nature to
the team.
a. Changing from file to single file. On the order ‘FORM SINGLE FILE’, the people in
the left hand file step into the space in front of the person on their right. Team members on
the right should step short if necessary to permit this. The team should then recover its
dressing. Remember to reform file as soon as possible, as single file is more difficult to
control than file.
b. Changing from single file to file. When the order ‘FORM FILE’ is given, the team will
effectively halve its length. This can only be achieved by the back of the team speeding up
to catch up with those at the front, or by the front of the team slowing down until the back
catches up. The latter will obviously be easier for a tired team, so on receipt of the order,
the pace-man or woman and all the others previously in the left hand file, should step left
and reform a second file. The pace-man or woman should then step short to allow the rest
of the team to catch up. As each team member recovers the position he or she occupied
previously, he or she too should step short until the whole team has recovered its dressing.
The TL should then tell the whole team to ‘STEP OUT’.
Dressing a team
22. As well as ensuring that the team is correctly dressed in the sense that the distance between
team members is correct, the TL also has to position the team members to ensure that everyone is
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in the right place. This is done by firstly making sure that when the team is in 2 files, each team
member is marching beside someone of the same natural walking speed and pace. The best
guide to this is the height of the people concerned. If each pair in the team finds it easy to stay in
step with each other, it will be reflected in the performance of the team as a whole. Each pair
should then be moved up and down the team to see what effect it has on the team overall. For
instance, those that have the most difficulty keeping the step should be placed at the rear so that
they can drift in and out of step without throwing the other pairs out. The slowest pair, including
those that are injured, should be placed in the second rank so that they do not get left behind.
When changing the pace-man or woman, the ‘pair’ should be moved to the front of the team so as
not to disturb the overall team ‘dressing’.
23. When certain team members have a very long natural stride, assuming they are not injured,
they should be placed at the rear of the team and should be permitted to dress back slightly to
allow for their longer stride. This will not adversely affect the team’s pace and step. If a marcher
with a naturally long stride is placed in the middle of a team, he/she will have to step short to keep
pace and step and this can cause muscle cramps in the legs and hairline fractures of the hips.
24. Ideally a TL, after sufficient training with his or her team, should form the team with good
pace makers (who can modify their pace as the situation demands) as the front pair. A pair of
strong/experienced marchers (who are unlikely to be injured through blisters, etc and/or have some
marching experience) should be used as the rear pair, with the remaining team members filling in
the middle positions of the team.
Load carrying
25. The Nijmegen Marches and the BMC Qualifying Event require males who are aged between
19 and 49 years old to carry 10 kgs of ballast weight. Carrying ballast requires a greater use of the
muscles in the torso and these must be improved by training if the marcher is to complete the
march in comfort and safety. Therefore, those who must carry ballast at Nijmegen must also carry
it during training. The carriage of weight will not only affect the muscles used but will also affect
the posture of the marcher and hence the area of the feet to be hardened.
26. The secret of carrying a load is not to carry too much. Having been warned of all the nasty
things that can happen on a march, some marchers tend to stock up with equipment to cover every
possible eventuality, and end up carrying more than is necessary. The first rule of backpacking is
to carry the MINIMUM required. For this type of event there are only two practical methods;
military webbing or a Bergen.
27. Military webbing. Some would say that military webbing is the better of the two options
since it allows greater circulation of air to the body and, if fitted correctly, is better balanced. The
following points should be noted when loading webbing:
a.
The weight should be evenly distributed between the shoulders and the waist belt.
This is achieved by adjusting the webbing to be a close fit to the body. The belt should be at
natural waist height and as tight as comfort will allow without restricting breathing. Those
who march along with a loose or undone belt will only shift the weight to the shoulder
muscles.
b.
Allowing for a packed lunch and full water bottle, the load should be broken down and
evenly distributed around the body.
c.
The load should ideally contain items that might be of use on the march. Any deadweight should be as soft as possible and of low density. The smaller an object is for a given
weight then the more it will respond to the body’s movements and bounce around. A
black/green bungee is a great way of stopping pouches bouncing whilst on the march.
Plastic bags filled with sand are ideal since they are heavy, soft and relatively bulky. An
EMPTY water bottle may be counted as part of the weight penalty.
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d.
In order to prevent extremely painful rubbing webbing equipment must be fitted
correctly. Incorrect fitting will also make a marcher appear slovenly and scruffy.
28. Bergen or rucksack. The weight in a rucksack or Bergen is carried on a person’s back and
not distributed around the body as it is with webbing. Therefore, care must be taken to ensure that
it is kept as close to the centre of gravity of the body as possible. This is achieved by RAISING the
weight as high as possible on the back. In a rucksack it is better to use ballast which is very bulky,
but if small weights are used they need to be secured at the top of the inside of the rucksack.
Using house bricks covered in foam rubber is a well-tried method of loading a Bergen. Rucksack
straps should be tight enough to hold it close to the body but not so tight as to restrict breathing or
cut off the blood supply to the arms. The first indication of the latter is a swelling of the hands.
29. Sweat. Rucksacks/Bergens tends to make the back sweat more. This sweat runs down the
back and can cause sweat rash problems and/or pain from rubbing between the salt (in the sweat)
and the fabric. One tip is to use a folded piece of towelling material (of a suitable colour) and place
it between the lower back and the Bergen.
Psychological considerations
30. Personality clashes. All teams are made up of individuals. If 2 people do not get on
together it could ultimately demoralise the whole team. Minor personality clashes tend to grow in
direct proportion to the level of exhaustion encountered and have been known to erupt into
physical violence. There is only one solution to this kind of problem; one or both of the
protagonists will have to leave the team.
31. Boredom. Marching can be quite boring if done for up to 8 hours a day, especially while
training. Some ways of relieving boredom are:
a.
Giving the training march a purpose. Visiting a particular landmark or beauty spot will
remove the impression that the team is just slogging away to clock up the mileage.
b.
Singing, whistling, clapping and chanting etc.
c.
Learning fancy march routines, such as the Hokey Cokey, with as many of the actions
as possible without losing step; crossovers and counter marching are other possibilities.
These routines are uplifting to the team and greatly appreciated by spectators, but care must
be taken to avoid interfering with other marchers.
d.
Stimulating conversation and discussion, an occupation that tends to lapse as team
members get tired.
32. The training effect of boredom. During the early stages of training, boredom and
despondency can actually be useful tools in the generation of team spirit since they have the effect
of promoting unity in the face of mutual adversity; exhaustion makes the team realise the
advantage of developing a good marching rhythm and staying in step. It may be advantageous to
refrain from trying to keep the team too cheerful until these lessons have been learnt. However,
under no circumstances should the team be allowed to finish the day’s march unhappy or they may
be less inclined to start again the following day.
33. Solitude. The TL should bear in mind that there are times when the team WANTS to be
quiet and just plod along, and should be allowed to do so. Similarly, there will be times when
members of the team become sick of the sight of each other and want to be alone for a while. This
is easily catered for on training marches by letting them take over from the front or rear traffic
guard until they feel more sociable.
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34. Sudden changes of behaviour. Any sudden changes of behaviour, outbursts, moodiness,
etc may be the first signs of exhaustion, hypothermia or dehydration. Further details of these
potentially serious problems are at Annex E.
35. Conversation. TLs should make a point of working their way up and down the files, chatting
to team members. This is not only good for morale but is the most effective way of spotting the
early signs of trouble. Those who are unwell are more inclined to admit it when asked than they
are to raise the subject in the first place.
Music/singing
36. In times past, troops used to march into battle behind a band, not because they liked the
music, but because it was the most effective method of keeping them in step; the choice of music
was also a way of stirring the emotions and improving morale. Where a band was not available,
troops were encouraged to sing on the march, thus generating their own rhythm. Although the
habit declined in England until the boom in long distance marching, it survived in Europe. The
Germans are well known for their harmonious marching songs, and this practice was more recently
‘discovered’ by the Americans, although they tend towards march chants rather than songs. Some
walking/marching organisations and many teams produce their own songbooks for the marching
events, some of which are available for purchase at qualification events. There are, however, a
number of points worth bearing in mind.
37. Radios or tape recorders, etc are NOT a good idea, even if they are playing March music.
This is because they rarely play at the exact tempo the team would naturally march at. In any
case, they are forbidden by most march event organisers.
38. Almost any kind of instrument is acceptable but remember it has to be carried a long way
and may be very irritating for other marchers, especially after 6 hours. A ‘Kazoo’ can be very
effective and easily learnt by all. Percussion instruments can range from a drum or tambourine
down to two sticks, or even dried peas in a tin.
39. When singing, avoid bad language, as this is offensive to others. Friendly competition in
terms of singing ability or range of songs known is good for team spirit and identity and should be
encouraged. However, loud is not necessarily good. Match the volume, style and tempo of the
music to the mood of the team, unless the TL specifically wants to perk up the team or speed up
the pace. Remember that a team should not be forced to sing if the team members do not want to.
Conclusion
40. The team that is smartly dressed, well equipped and well led and who are singing lustily
whilst marching in a tight formation, at a good pace and in step will attract the applause of
spectators and will be the envy of those less well trained teams who are struggling.
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Annex C to
NM JS EP&GI Booklet
HEUMENSOORD CAMP FACILITIES BRIEF
1.
To accommodate the military contingents of nations participating in the Nijmegen Marches
the Dutch Military secures and prepares part of the Heumensoord forest public park into a semipermanent tented camp. Lying approximately 5km south of Nijmegen city centre, Heumensoord
Camp becomes the largest military barracks in the Netherlands for the duration of the Marches,
accommodating up to 5000 male and female personnel.
2.
Heumensoord forest is the main water-catchment area for the whole of Nijmegen city and
therefore government installed water-borne sanitation is provided. Furthermore, no field kitchen
equipment may be used by any foreign military contingent. Civilian companies are contracted to
provide accommodation, central messing and refreshment facilities.
Main camp facilities
3.
The main camp facilities comprise:
a.
Compartmentalised marquee accommodation with wooden floors, electric lighting,
bunk beds and mattresses.
b.
Piped water for ablutions and hot showers (24 hrs).
c.
Water-borne sanitation.
d.
Electric shaving points.
e.
A central mess hall for all ranks.
f.
A beer hall and refreshment facility, complete with entertainment for all ranks.
g.
Small mobile food outlets (usually selling chips, pizza and burgers).
h.
Regular shuttle buses to and from Nijmegen city centre.
4.
Accommodation. Although mattresses are provided, all personnel are required to provide
their own bedding/sleeping bag and pillow. The marquee accommodation is not secure. All
personal belongings, valuables and clothing should be secured in a locked suitcase/holdall.
5.
Messing. The Dutch breakfast and midday meals consist of cold meats, bread, butter,
cheese, preserves, milk, yoghurt, tea and coffee. An omelette-style hot breakfast selection may
also be available. A choice of hot meals is available for evening dinner. During breakfast time on
march days, all marchers are to prepare their packed lunches for the day. Personnel may be
issued with meal cards which will need to be produced in order to gain access to the Mess tent.
Chips and/or burgers are usually available at a charge from mobile food outlets. Plates and cutlery
are provided at the central mess hall.
6.
Cooking. No cooking equipment of any type may be brought onto Heumensoord Camp.
Very strict fire regulations are in place around the camp as the risk of fire is deemed to be
significant.
7.
Electrical appliances. In recent years the Dutch have provided a mobile
phone/tablet/laptop charging stations throughout camp - a rack/tower with many plug sockets.
Along with the plug sockets in the ironing tents, these are the only locations that electrical
appliances may be charged. Breaking into the accommodation tent lighting circuits constitutes a
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major fire risk and comprises the safety of all personnel on camp. Any appliances found plugged
in anywhere other than the designated sockets will be confiscated by either the BMC or Dutch Fire
Authorities.
8.
Telephones. No public telephones are provided on camp. Personnel are advised to bring
mobile telephones.
9.
Wi-Fi. In recent years the Dutch have provided a free Wi-Fi service across camp.
10. Laundry. There are no laundry facilities available. Personnel are to bring sufficient clothing
for the duration of the deployment.
BMC support element facilities
11. In addition to the facilities provided by the Dutch Military, the BMC support element provides
the following facilities within the British area of the camp:
a.
Administration centre. This will be manned 24 hrs and should be the first port of call
for information or queries.
b.
Cadet canteen. Run jointly with the Canadian Military Contingent, this facility will
serve a selection of non-alcoholic beverages. Alcoholic beverages will be available for adult
participants only.
c.
Medical facilities. A substantial medical centre will be available to deal with march
related injuries and other medical conditions. Personnel who require access to regular
medicines, such as those with diabetes, will be able to store medication at the medical
centre.
d.
Ironing facilities. A small number of irons and ironing boards will be provided by the
BMC.
Camp routine
12. Each day’s march starts from Heumensoord Camp. Each foreign contingent is given a start
time, usually between 0430 and 0630 hrs. Due to size of the BMC, the British participants are
usually divided into 3 contingents, each with a different start time. These are issued to teams by
the BMC staff on arrival at Heumensoord Camp.
13.
The routine for a typical day’s marching is as follows:
a.
Reveille
0200 - 0400 hrs.
b.
Breakfast
0230 – 0600 hrs.
c.
Marching commences
0430 – 0600 hrs (one hr earlier on day 4).
d.
March cut off time
1700.
e.
Showers
24 hrs.
f.
Evening meal
1700-1800 hrs.
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Annex D to
NM JS EP&GI Booklet
DRESS REGULATIONS AND EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS
General
1.
Uniformity. All members of each team are to be similarly dressed. No mixture of long or
short-sleeved shirts or mixture of trousers is permitted within a team. TLs are to inspect uniforms
before departure from parent Units.
2.
Unit clothing. Unit/team sweatshirts are not to be worn in lieu of uniform shirts/jackets.
3.
Uniform outside camp. For security reasons military uniform is not to be worn outside
Heumensoord Camp except when participating in the Marches themselves or attending an official
reception. At all times, civilian dress should be of a high standard.
4.
Minimum dress. Whilst in any area of Heumensoord Camp, including to and from shower
blocks the minimum dress standard is shorts and T-shirt. Towels worn around the waist are not
acceptable. This applies to male and female personnel alike. Under garments are to be worn
when reporting to the medical centre for treatment.
Marching dress
5.
In accordance with para 39 of the main document, marching dress for all BMC participants is
to be temperate issue combat uniform as follows:
a.
Beret or Regimental headdress.
b.
Brown/OG T-shirt.
c.
Lightweight jacket/shirt (either PCS(CU), interim MTP or CS95).
Note: Combat smocks/jackets may also be worn. Under Body Armour Combat Shirts
(UBACS) and unit polo/sweatshirts are not to be worn. Only cadet participants may wear
Shirt Blue, OG or KD.
d.
Combat trousers (either PCS(CU), interim MTP or CS95).
Note: Only cadet participants may wear trousers lightweight OG.
e.
Hi-leg military style boots (either brown or black).
f.
Waterproof jacket or poncho when required (either PCS(CU), interim MTP or CS95).
Note: It is mandatory for personnel to deploy with a waterproof.
g.
British Military-Style Webbing/Bergen.
(1) Male Marchers. Male marchers aged between 19 and 49 in the year of the
Marches are required to carry 10kg dead-weight in addition to water, food and other
consumables. Stichting De 4DAAGSE carry out weight checks at random points along
the route and personnel found to be carrying insufficient weight will be disqualified from
the March. Personnel are to make their own arrangements for this weight. Sand
ballast will be available at Heumensoord Camp in the lead up to the Marches.
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(2) Female Marchers. Ideally, even in mixed teams, females should carry only a
webbing belt with water bottle and single pouch rather than a full set of webbing or full
Bergen.
h.
Brassards (optional). Blue or OG with small union flag on each arm; Unit crest may
also be worn.
Formal parades
6.
Opening ceremony. Due to financial cuts it is unlikely that there will be an opening
ceremony in 2016.
7.
British reception. All personnel wishing to attend the British Reception are to wear Blue
No.1C Formal Dress for Naval personnel, No.2 Service Dress for Army personnel and No.1
Service Dress for RAF personnel, all minus leathers and medals. White, KD or equivalent tropical
orders of dress are not to be worn.
8.
Final march past. The final march past has now been incorporated into the 40km distance
on the 4th day’s march. Dress is to be marching dress in accordance with para 5. Clean combat
uniform or Wedgwood Blue/OG/KD short sleeve issue shirts may be worn but will need to be
carried by the individual for the entirety of the 4th day. Males ages 19 to 49 are to carry 10kgs
ballast weight on the final march past. Water bottles are to be filled prior to the final march past.
Equipment
9.
Essential equipment. Each marcher, regardless of rank/sex is to be in possession of:
a.
Sufficient uniform for the duration of the Marches.
b.
Sleeping bag.
c.
Wash kit/Shaving kit.
d.
Towel.
e.
Boot cleaning kit.
f.
Civilian clothing, refer to para 3.
g.
Water bottle/Camelbak/Platypus (at least 2 litre capacity).
h.
Torch/head torch plus batteries.
i.
Flip flops/sandals (to avoid infection in the showers).
j.
Blister first aid kit. Suggested contents are given at Annex E.
k.
Plastic bags (for containing sand ballast and keeping equipment dry).
l.
Sunscreen.
m.
Ear Plugs.
n.
Strong string and coat hangers (for hanging uniform).
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10.
Suggested equipment. Marchers/teams should consider bringing the following items:
a.
Military floppy hat for sun protection (to be worn outside populated areas along the
route only).
b.
Camera.
c.
Green bungee (for stopping webbing bounce).
d.
Alarm clock.
e.
Pillow.
f.
Snacks/energy bars (to supplement packed lunch).
g.
Washing up bowl or similar (for bathing hot, tired feet after each day’s march).
11. Team equipment. In addition to the individual kit requirements listed above, each team are
to be in possession of the following equipment:
a.
Substantial first aid kit. Suggested contents are given at Annex E.
b.
At least 2 mobile telephones able to be used on Dutch/German networks. These are to
be kept charged and carried on the march. BMC staff will use these numbers to contact
teams in cases of medical or security emergency.
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Annex E to
NM JS EP&GI Booklet
MEDICAL BRIEF: CARE OF BODY AND SOLE
Introduction
1.
Long distance marching is a physical activity designed to test personal endurance under
arduous conditions. Indeed, several people have literally walked themselves to death because
they were either not fit enough to do the distance or because they did not understand the physical
problems involved and know how to recognise the symptoms at their onset. Most organised march
events provide first aid facilities on the march route but this should not be used as an excuse for
TLs to neglect their responsibility to carry a first aid kit, and be conversant with its use. Team
members must inform their TL if they have any condition such as hay-fever, asthma, etc which
might affect their ability to complete the training. They should also advise the TL if they are taking
any prescribed drugs and inform him or her where they are kept, so that they can be made
available in the event of emergencies.
2.
The following notes are not intended to turn anyone into an overnight expert, but are
designed to outline the kind of problems that a marcher is likely to encounter and how to handle
them. Ideally, at least one member of the team should be a qualified first aider but even so, all
doubtful cases should be referred to medical help as soon as possible, either before, during or
after the march.
Care and condition of feet
3.
The most important preventative measure in keeping feet in good condition is cleanliness.
Skin broken by blisters is less likely to become infected if feet are kept clean and toe nails well cut;
above all, start the Marches with feet in a good clean condition free from injuries, including blisters.
4.
Feet are covered in skin, which is designed to sweat when warm and thus get rid of
unwanted heat. Over-use of antiperspirants and/or talcum powder will mean that feet cannot cool
down properly. Furthermore, a large amount of talcum powder inside a sock mixes with sweat to
form a thick, abrasive paste which sticks to the skin. In normal circumstances these would have
little effect, but when your feet are working particularly hard, such practices will accelerate the
onset of blisters.
5.
The TL, or someone detailed to the task, should inspect the team members’ feet after each
day’s marching to check for injuries. Experienced marchers will realise the importance of looking
after their feet, but it is not unknown for someone to hide an injury for fear of not being allowed to
complete the event. However unpleasant the TL finds this particular task, it is a necessary duty,
best done after a team has showered; all injuries, no matter how small, should be treated.
Toe nails
6.
Toe nails must be cut and cleaned regularly, but never just before a march, as the rough
edge may cause a variety of problems. Ideally toenails should be cut about one week before a
major event to allow for any rough edges, etc, to settle. The nails should be cut straight across
without leaving sharp corners, then smoothed with a file to prevent ‘splinters’; they can be tested
for comfort by running a finger along the edge. If a nail is left too long it will catch in the sock and
be moved up and down as you walk. This gradually lifts the nail away from the toe resulting in a
blister under the nail. There are only 2 methods of draining this kind of blister if the toenail is to be
preserved for the time being (it will eventually turn black and drop off anyway). These are to go
through the nail with a red-hot needle or to insert a needle under the nail, neither of which will be
well received by the victim. Qualified medical staff only should carry out this technique. On the
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other hand, if a nail is left too short a tight sock may force the skin in front of the edge back over it.
This can result in blisters on the end of the toes, in front of the nail, but these are relatively easy to
deal with.
Hard skin/blisters
7.
Hard skin. Training increases the amount of skin on the soles of the feet and thereby
hardens them to marching. The only problem is that too much hard skin can have just the opposite
effect to the one expected, especially if a ridge is allowed to develop at the heel. If it gets too thick,
this pad may start to rub against the live skin and cause blisters at a deep level. A pumice stone or
similar device should be used when bathing to keep the amount of hard skin reasonable and to
remove the ridge at the heel. The use of surgical spirit or anything else to ‘harden’ the skin will
toughen up what is already there, but will not provide the thicker pad of skin required.
8.
Blisters. Blisters are caused by friction or pressure and are the body’s way of cooling and
protecting the area affected. During the early stages of training they tend to be quite close to the
surface, often bursting by themselves, but get deeper as the hard skin pad forms. Blisters should
be treated as soon as possible to prevent them from becoming bigger. However, do not keep
stopping a team to treat individual’s blisters. If a rest area is within a few kilometres wait until then
and treat everyone together. Generally, they only cause pain when starting after rest breaks etc.
Once they have been treated and trodden in, they stop hurting until the next rest. Indeed, some
teams have even developed their own ritual for doing this en masse and can be seen stamping out
the first hundred metres or more when leaving a rest area to join the March route. Those who limp
out of one rest area will limp into the next.
9.
Blister treatment. Advice on blister treatment can only be general, as the treatment will
depend a lot on the state of the blister (how big, how deep, where it is; toes, heel, ball of foot etc).
There are now “Blister Kits” on the commercial market and though expensive can bring
tremendous relief to those suffering. It may be possible for teams to treat their own minor blisters
providing they have sufficient clean sterile equipment. Each time individuals’ blisters are treated;
clean sterile equipment should be used. Therefore, only during proper training will a TL (and/or
team medic) have any idea of the amount of equipment required for his/her team.
a.
General advice. Whenever treating blisters on the feet (at a rest area or at the end of
the day), allow a little time for the feet to cool down, blisters should be drained using a
STERILISED needle. Do NOT use the same needle on more than one person. After
swabbing the area clean with surgical spirit or other antiseptic, gentle pressure should be
applied to one end of the blister with a thumb so that it ‘balloons’ and stands proud of the
healthy skin. The needle should then be laid along the skin and pushed sideways into the
blisters. This avoids the possibility of puncturing healthy tissue and causing pain. When the
fluid has been emptied, ensure there is a small hole in the outer skin to allow any excess
fluid to drain away. The affected area should then be covered with a clean sterile dressing
and taped into place.
b.
Blister roof (skin) intact. A suitably shaped and sized pad should be cut from a
“Melolin”, “Danoline”, or ‘moleskin’ dressing and secured by an Elastoplast bandage or Zinc
Oxide tape. It is important not to place any tape straight over the blister as when the tape is
later removed it may remove the skin with it causing a great deal of pain for the patient and
requiring more treatment to keep him/her on the road.
c.
Blister roof torn or missing. If the blister roof is torn or has actually come off use
clean sterile scissors or a disposable scalpel and tweezers to gently cut away any excess
skin (as this will only irritate the tissue inside). Do not use any cleaning agent like Surgical
Spirit straight onto the wound area as this will burn the tissue that needs protecting. Adopt
the same procedure as above. Use of ‘Second Skin’ will act as a coolant on the wound and
as a cushioning gel over the pressure area. If used, Second Skin must be removed as soon
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as possible after the day’s march. As the gel keeps the skin moist it will make the skin go all
white and damp. Simple washing and letting the skin breathe will get rid of it.
d.
Taping. It is important that all dressings are taped firmly into place. Dressings on the
back of the heel are likely to move up and over the back of the heel and ankle causing rubs
elsewhere. Ensure a certain amount of tape is placed ahead of the heel to prevent backward
movement. Dressing on the ball or sole of the foot must cover the entire ball or sole and
come up the side of the foot. Dressing over and around the toes has to do the same. The
more padding placed around the toes the more difficult it will be for the marcher to get his/her
boots back on. Use strips of tape along the top of the toes and onto the top of the foot to
secure dressings. Always ensure that any corners or bulges in the taping are cut away to
prevent further rubs or pressure points. If the tape feels sticky it is likely that the tape will
stick to the inner sock and ruck up. Use a very light cover of talc rubbed between your hands
over the tape to stop this (do not put talc onto the patient’s feet).
e.
Medically trained personnel. It is strongly recommended that medically trained
personnel deal with the draining of blisters. If the opportunity is available to you (and/or the
team medic), ask the medical staff at one of the qualification events for tips and advice.
Some medical teams even offer demonstrations in blister treatment and pre-taping to assist
teams in self-help treatment.
Other skin problems
10. Nappy rash. Nappy rash is usually a source of great amusement to everyone in the team
except the sufferer, who will be in acute agony. The merriment is caused by the victim walking
along with his or her knees turned out as though he or she were bandy, this being the only way to
get relief from the pain. The condition is soreness caused by very sweaty underwear rubbing
between the legs. The onset of pain can be quite sudden and without any warning signs other
than the presence of the sweat which causes it. Prevention, as always, is better than the cure and
is achieved by careful selection of the underwear worn. This should be loose enough to prevent
overheating and should preferably be made of cotton. The cure, if needed, consists of washing the
affected area with clean water to remove the salt, the application of a soothing cream and a
change of underwear. Application of Vaseline over possible affected parts prior to marching may
aid prevention, as may a light dusting of talcum powder; however, remember the paste effect
mentioned in para 4. If left untreated, this condition can prevent physical activity for several days.
11. Trench foot. Trench foot is caused by prolonged exposure of the feet to wet and muddy
conditions; this causes the skin on the bottom of the feet and on the toes to become white and
wrinkled. Generally speaking this condition looks worse than it is and normally clears up after a
shower/bath and a change into clean, dry socks. Leaving the feet exposed to the open air for a
while will also help. If in doubt, obtain medical advice.
12. Athletes’ foot. Athletes’ foot is a fungal infection which usually starts between the toes, the
skin going white, sodden looking and flaky. The only treatment is to see a doctor immediately as it
will require medication. The condition is highly infectious and can be passed on in showers. Care
must be taken to avoid infecting the rest of the team.
13. Abrasions. Abrasions can occur anywhere that is subject to continuous rubbing; these
should be dressed and treated as for any other minor injury. Prevention may be achieved by
rectifying problems associated with rubbing in the first instance but, if this fails, a large plaster
covering the affected skin area can sometimes lessen the damage, by reducing the friction, etc.
The wearing of well broken-in boots and correctly fitted equipment will help prevent the condition
starting.
14. Sunburn. When trying to get a suntan, most people sunbathe for short periods at first, and
then gradually increase the amount of exposure as the protective layers of skin are produced over
a number of days; this is especially important for fair skinned people. Unfortunately, when
E-3
marching, people deliberately expose themselves to the sun for up to eight hours, without giving a
second thought to the possibility of sunburn. The main problem areas are:
a.
The arms, which are at risk when sleeves are rolled up.
b.
The back of the neck, upper shoulders and the throat, which can get a lot of exposure
through an open necked shirt.
c.
The face, in particular the nose.
d.
The top of the head, for people who are balding.
15. Sun protection. On sunny days these areas should be protected by an ultra violet barrier
cream (minimum factor 15). A hat should be worn whenever possible and many marchers carry a
floppy military hat to wear outside of towns and whilst resting. A beret should always be worn
when marching through built up areas and when entering/leaving rest stops. TLs must strike a
balance for their team between wearing hats for sun protection and removing hats to allow
individuals to cool off. The team, especially those carrying weight, should not be allowed to
sunbathe or strip off at rest points or rest areas.
Boots and socks
16. The type of sock worn is largely a matter of preference, and each marcher has to experiment
to find out what suits him or her. There are various types of walking socks with cushioned heels
and toe areas on the commercial market and they can be expensive (up to £10 a pair). However, if
they work for one individual and he/she is willing to pay the money rather than suffer the pain, then
don’t stop them. Socks should have no holes or darns and should be of the correct size so that
they do not cramp the toes when marching, or wrinkle under the foot. Like boots, they need to be
broken in from new; otherwise the natural roughness of material may cause problems. Marchers
should try to ensure that they have a clean pair of socks for each day of marching to reduce the
risk of infection. The wearing of socks inside out to prevent knots, ribs and rough surfaces rubbing
against the skin has become common practice amongst experienced marchers. Nylon socks
must not be worn.
17. The type of boot worn is also a matter of preference and comfort, although they are to be
black, military hi-leg style. They should be inspected at the start of training to ensure that the soles
are thick enough to last throughout the training and the event concerned. Many experienced
Service marchers strongly recommend getting “Vibram” soles added to their boots as this adds a
cushioning to the feet and legs; the later style military Combat High is far more flexible than the
original ones issued and some have “Vibram” type soles. Some marchers purchase their own
“military style” boots (i.e. Danners, Matterhorns or Hi-Tech Magnums). Again, the type of boot
used can depend on the individual. If an individual wants to spend £150 on a pair of boots that
don’t give them blisters then let them; it’s their money and less treatment work for you (or your
team medic). Hi-Tech Magnums have appeared a lot at Nijmegen over the last few years but are
not recommended for most people; they make feet sweat more as they do not allow the feet to
breathe properly. Anyone thinking of purchasing such boots should be advised to buy a full size
bigger than their normal shoe size to allow for hot expanding feet. It should be borne in mind that
any type of high leg boot can, if not well broken in, cause Achilles tendon injuries. Methods of
lacing the boots should be altered to prevent too much pressure in this area. You should seek
advice from experienced BMC marchers concerning revised lacing patterns for marching boots.
18. If new boots are to be worn, they should be checked for correct size by trying them on while
wearing the type of sock which will be worn when marching. Any nails, staples, stitching or folds
which can be felt inside the boots are potential sources of blisters. If they protrude too far into the
space occupied by the feet the boots should be rejected. All new boots should be broken in before
going on any long march and then polished regularly to keep them supple using one of the many
E-4
commercial waxes or leather treatments available. One tried and trusted method to “break in”
boots is as follows:
a.
Remove the laces and totally immerse the boots in a bath of cold water for 24 hours.
b.
Wipe off any excess water using an old towel and stuff the boots with as much
newspaper as possible.
c.
Apply a generous amount of polish over the whole of each boot, including the welts.
d.
Allow the boots to dry naturally; adding more polish every couple of days.
19. This process can take up to a fortnight before the boots are thoroughly dry; however, they
will end up being very supple. To mould the boots to the feet, it is suggested that the boots are
marched in for distances of up to 5 miles, several times during the drying process. Having worn
and marched them in, you should re-stuff the boots and apply more polish.
Exhaustion and exposure
20. In order to produce work (i.e. marching), muscles burn glucose (i.e. food) and oxygen, which
are brought to the muscles concerned via the bloodstream from the digestive system and lungs
respectively. This process produces carbon dioxide, water and heat all of which are removed from
the muscles by the same supply of blood. The carbon dioxide is transported to and expelled from
the lungs; the water is lost from the body as sweat or urine and the heat is lost from the surface of
the skin by convection and the evaporation of sweat.
21. Exhaustion occurs when the body can no longer supply the needs of the muscles or remove
their waste products. As far as marching is concerned exhaustion will either be due to lack of
training or lack of energy.
22. Exhaustion due to lack of training. Someone who is unfit will not have a good enough
circulation to the leg muscles either to supply the energy needed or remove the waste products
fast enough. Even those who consider themselves fit from other sports may have the same
problem if that sport uses different muscles. Moreover, most other sports involve exertion for a
comparatively short time; a footballer, for example, will work a lot harder but only for 90 minutes. A
marcher will have to maintain a high work rate for anything up to 8 hours so march training is all
about building endurance both physical and mental. The effect of physical training is to increase
the size of the muscles and improve the circulation to them. This ensures a good supply of energy
to do work and the rapid removal of all waste products.
23. Symptoms. Someone who is suffering this type of exhaustion is generally active and alert
but has localised weaknesses or cramps in the muscle doing the work. He will be hot, flushed and
panting, with a rapid heartbeat as the body seeks to keep up with the demands of the muscle. He
will recover after rest, except for stiffness in the muscles the next morning. One way of reducing
this stiffness is to take a hot shower or bath after the march. This keeps the circulation going at a
faster rate and clears the waste products from the muscles. If a shower or a bath is not available,
the only other practical way of preventing muscles from seizing up is to make sure that team
members keep on the move for about 15-20 minutes after finishing the march. If they sit down or
lie down immediately they have finished, they will seize up for sure.
24. Exhaustion due to lack of energy. Energy (i.e. food) has 2 functions within the body; to
maintain the core temperature at about 37°C and to provide the energy to do the work. If the body
does a lot of work and/or is cooled down by the environment, the supply of energy drops and
eventually runs out. Complete depletion of energy results in death. The loss of energy due to
external cooling is called exposure or hypothermia and the loss of energy due to hard work is
called exhaustion. The symptoms and treatment for both are the same.
E-5
25. Symptoms. Initially the casualty finds difficulty in doing work and suffers from an overall
tiredness, lethargy and inability to make decisions. Then the temperature of the body and skin
drop and the pulse starts to disappear from the extremities of the limbs. The most obvious
symptom, and the one which usually occurs just before total collapse, is a complete reversal of
normal behaviour patterns. Quiet people start talking a lot, noisy people go quiet. Swearing and
aggression are quite common. THE CASUALTY WILL NOT RECOVER WITHOUT TREATMENT
which consists of stopping the energy loss by resting and keeping him warm AND by feeding him
with high-energy foods like dextrose or sugar to replenish the energy supply. The food can result
in an apparently remarkable recovery, especially with younger people, but this can be misleading.
The casualty may have sufficient energy to make them lively and alert, but further attempts at
marching could cause a relapse. If this is the case, for his/her own safety the marcher should not
be allowed to continue the march. GET MEDICAL ASSISTANCE IMMEDIATELY.
26.
Prevention of exhaustion. Prevention of both conditions outlined above is as follows:
a.
Ensure each member of the team is properly dressed for the weather expected and
that they have eaten a substantial breakfast before marching.
b.
Ensure food is available at regular intervals on the march, or is carried in the form of a
packed lunch/snacks.
c.
Instil the mentality that FOOD = FUEL. Regular intake of the correct food is the only
way.
Dehydration
27. The body gets rid of excess heat by the evaporation of sweat from the skin. Therefore,
continued exposure to heat or hard work will reduce the amount of water in the body available for
this cooling process. If there is too little to carry out this function efficiently, the body temperature
will start to rise, leading to the problems outlined in the following paragraphs.
28. An early indication of dehydration is muscular cramps due to the loss of salt. However,
unless they are very severe they tend to be ignored by marchers who have come to expect a few
aches and pains. They may be accompanied by stomach cramps, which are often mistaken for
hunger pangs and also ignored. Other symptoms include headaches and dizziness although these
may not be noticed until during a hot shower after the march. The body’s cooling system uses
energy in transporting heat from the core of the body to the skin where it is lost to the atmosphere.
Continued exposure to heat will lead to the same general exhaustion detailed in para 19 above,
and the appearance of the same symptoms. The TL can carry out a simple but reliable check for
heat exhaustion by shaking hands with the team members; even on a hot day people in the early
stages of dehydration may feel cold and clammy to the touch and may also be shivering. Each
member of the team should carry a water bottle and drink plenty throughout the day to
prevent/cure the condition. Some TLs insist on their team members carrying two water bottles and
order their team to drink regularly (whether any team member has just taken a drink or not).
29. Someone who is suffering from dehydration may not be in a state to help themselves and will
rely on their fellow team members to effect the cure. As long as the patient is conscious, he or she
should drink a pint of water immediately, followed by a second pint drunk more slowly over 10
minutes or so; the patient may be somewhat reluctant to comply with this, but it is necessary. If the
patient fails to pass water within 30-45 minutes, medical assistance should be sought, as this may
imply that other problems exist. The patient should also be given the same general treatment for
exhaustion, i.e. rest and food. If the patient is unconscious, no attempt should be made to make
him or her drink as you might end up drowning him or her instead. Any unconscious casualty
MUST be referred to medical aid for treatment immediately. First aid treatment should be confined
to placing the casualty in the recovery position and cooling if necessary.
E-6
Heatstroke
30. Heat-stroke occurs when the body’s cooling system breaks down because of untreated
dehydration, heat exhaustion, illness or when the body is subjected to more heat than it can
handle. The condition will result in a rapid rise in body temperature and eventual loss of
consciousness. If the casualty remains conscious, he or she will be restless, complaining of
headache, dizziness and feeling hot; the casualty may also be delirious. The most obvious
difference between heatstroke and heat exhaustion is that with heatstroke the skin is hot and
flushed. Treatment consists of getting the patient into the shade, removing as much clothing as
decency will allow and sponging him or her down with tepid water. Very cold water may send the
patient into shock. This condition, if not treated, or treated incorrectly, can be severe enough to
cause death.
Alcohol
31. The consumption of alcohol whilst marching is to be positively discouraged by TLs since it
has the following effects:
a.
It accelerates dehydration of the body. Heavy drinking the night before a march could
also leave the body dehydrated, i.e. hung over, the following morning making the marcher
dehydrated before he or she even starts marching.
b.
The onset and effect of drunkenness is much greater in a body which has been
working close to exhaustion.
c.
It can result in stomach cramps as gas is released from cold beer hitting a hot stomach.
Tablets
32. Over the last few years more and more teams are using pain relieving and anti-inflammatory
tablets such as Brufen to assist some of the team members through pain barriers. These tablets
do a good job if properly controlled by the TL and/or team medic, but there have been cases of
team members having their own supply and using the tablets like Smarties from an early stage in
the Marches. Using these painkillers early and in an uncontrolled manner will only negate the
effect they are supposed to have and could be dangerous. TLs are to ensure that personnel taking
such tablets do so strictly in accordance with the instructions on the packaging and are to brief
their teams accordingly.
First aid kit contents
33. The quantity of each item required in the first aid kit will be found by experience and will
depend upon the size of a team and its particular needs. However, it should include the following
items:
a.
Dressings (to be kept sterile):
(1)
Non-stick wound dressings such as ‘Melolin’ or ‘Moleskin’. (10cm).
(2) Strapping and support bandages. (7.5cm and 10cm). TLs should also consider
carrying one triangular bandage per team.
(3) Fixing tape/Blister protection such as Zinc-oxide or ‘elastoplast’ tape. (12 and
25mm)
(4)
Blister covering such as ‘micropore’ tape and ‘Compeed’.
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b.
c.
(5)
Miscellaneous plasters for general abrasions/wounds.
(6)
Cotton wool for swabbing.
(7)
Second skin spray/gel.
Creams and powders:
(1)
Surgical spirit for cleaning and sterilizing.
(2)
Vaseline/Vasogen/Sudocrem for sweat/nappy rash.
(3)
Mycota for athlete’s foot.
(4)
Suncream, high factors due to prolonged exposure to the sun.
(5)
Deepheat/Algipan/Nurofen gel for muscular pain.
(6)
Antiseptic Cream to prevent infection.
General Equipment:
(1)
Brufen/Ibuprofen for general pain relief.
(2)
Oral Rehydration Sachets (such as Dioralyte).
(3)
Throat lozenges (such as strepsils).
(4)
Scissors for cutting dressings.
(5)
Disposable sharps/scalpels for removing broken skin from blisters.
(6)
Sterile needles/syringes for draining blisters.
(7)
Safety pins/tweezers/nail file.
(8)
Disposable surgical gloves.
34. TLs are to control the use of all medication, particularly of painkillers and sharps. Cadets
should not be in possession of such items other than when using them under the supervision of the
TL. Sharps are not to be discarded in normal waste bins. Sharps boxes will be available for
disposal of this equipment.
35. All medical equipment is to be kept as sterile as possible to prevent infection.
Needles/syringes/scalpels are not to be used on more than one person and hygiene is to be a
priority.
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Exercise Nijmegen Marches 2016

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