Last updated on November 29th, 2024 at 08:23 am
Reading Time: 3 minutesThe DANCON March is one of the most challenging and exciting events in the Danish military, but it’s not just for Danish soldiers. Originally created as a way for Danish peacekeepers to test their endurance, it has evolved into an international event where military personnel and civilians from around the world come together to push themselves physically.
Whether you’re a soldier, an endurance athlete, or just someone looking for a tough challenge, the DANCON March offers a unique opportunity to test your limits and experience a long-standing military tradition. In this article, we’ll dive into the history of the march, what it involves, and what makes it such an unforgettable experience.
About the DANCON March
The DANCON March first started in 1972 as a way for Danish soldiers to show their physical strength and resilience. Initially, it was exclusive to military personnel, but it soon opened up to civilians and soldiers from other countries. The name “DANCON” stands for “Danish Contingent,” reflecting its origins as a challenge for those serving in Danish peacekeeping missions.
Over the years, the event has become a globally recognized endurance challenge, attracting participants from all over the world. The march, held annually in Denmark, spans distances of 25, 40, or 50 kilometers (about 15.6 to 31 miles), depending on the category and the participant’s experience level. The goal is simple: complete the course in full military gear, including a rucksack, and within a set time limit—usually between 8 and 12 hours.
The march isn’t just about physical stamina; it’s also about the camaraderie that forms among participants. Soldiers and civilians, regardless of their backgrounds, work together to complete the march, offering support and encouragement along the way.
It’s not unusual for participants to bond over the shared challenge, making the event a memorable experience of teamwork and unity. Often, the march is tied to significant military commemorations, marking anniversaries or important events, and for many, it’s seen as a rite of passage or a personal milestone.
The DANCON March has become much more than just a test of endurance—it’s a celebration of military values like discipline, teamwork, and perseverance.
My Experience
I had the opportunity to participate in the DANCON March back in the summer of 2007, while I was deployed to Camp Bondsteel, Kosovo, as part of the KFOR8 Rotation. The event was hugely popular with soldiers from many different countries—Poland, Greece, Denmark, the U.S., Germany, and others.
The course itself was 25.2 km (about 15.6 miles) and took us through a mix of terrain: hills, off-road paths, paved roads, and mountain trails. This was the longest ruck march I had ever done at the time, and it definitely pushed me to my limits. I finished the march in 4 hours and 27 minutes, averaging about a 15-minute mile pace. Along the way, I did some running, some jogging, but mostly walking. By the time I crossed the finish line, I was exhausted, dehydrated, and had sore feet from blisters, but it was well worth it.
After finishing, I received a certificate and a medal as recognition of completing the march. Unfortunately, U.S. soldiers aren’t allowed to wear the medal on their uniforms, but it still meant a lot to me as a personal achievement.
Overall, the experience was exactly what I had expected: tough, rewarding, and a lot of fun. It’s one of those challenges that not only tests your physical limits but also leaves you with a sense of pride and accomplishment. I would definitely do it again. It’s always great to challenge yourself and see just how far you can push yourself, both physically and mentally.
Conclusion
The DANCON March is more than just a grueling test of physical endurance—it’s a celebration of the values that make military service so special: perseverance, teamwork, and dedication. The event brings together people from all over the world to share in a common goal, and it fosters a sense of unity and pride that transcends national borders.
For those who complete it, the march represents a personal achievement and a connection to military traditions that go back decades. Whether you’re tackling the hills of Denmark or bonding with soldiers from different nations, the DANCON March is an unforgettable experience that leaves participants with a deep sense of accomplishment and camaraderie.
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Very Respectfully,
Chuck Holmes
Former Army Major
Founder, Part-Time-Commander.com
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I did the Dancon march in Cyprus back in 1990. I was stationed with the Canadian contingent of the U.N. It was challenging but offered the beautiful scenery of the Troodos mountains and a welcome relief from the monotony of sitting in an observation post for 12 hours at a time. As I recall we had to carry 30 ibs as well.
I did the DANCON March 2007 at Camp Victory in Baghdad, Iraq. I had fun doing it.
Do you know where you can purchase the Bosnia DANCON medal? Did it in 2001.
Did the DANCON in 2007 in Baghdad. I was a Navy guy embeded with a bunch of Army grunts that got me to go with them. Did not know what I was doing. Finished but both my feet were one bid blister. Limped around for a week after.
I could say something harsh, but I won’t because you DID IT!
Great job and it is cool to see Army and Navy come together as a team.
Blisters heal but memories last a lifetime.
I am one of few US soldiers who have completed the DANCON in three different deployments: Bosnia in 2002, Afghanistan in 2003 and Iraq in 2007 so I have different DANCON ribbons/medals/certificates. Bosnia was toughest because of the hills.
I did the DANCON march when I was stationed in the former Yugoslavia with ( UNPROFOR ) ( UNCIVPOL ) with the RCMP. I was the oldest man at age 50. I made it within the time constraints, but didn’t keep properly hydrated. Later when trying to sleep I had severe leg cramps and walked funny for a couple of days. I was great comradery though. I have a lot of admiration for the Danish Army and the Danish National Police.
I finished the Dancon March in Afghanistan just within five hours. I went a little over the required weight, had done a some training to include the Guardian Angel walks on our missions and drank a lot of water along with carbing up prior to the event. I did change socks at the halfway point and sported the moleskin. It was a great experience. Being the only 11B in our group on this activation, I thought I’d better do it. Walked gingerly for about three to four days after the event.
Good job GRUNT!!!!!
Any update on whether or not it can be worn or has anyone tried to send the required documents to HRC allowing for its wear?
To the best of my knowledge it still cannot be worn.
In an email from HRC they said if it is not listed in AR 600-8-22 it cannot be worn.
Seriously, why would the Army authorize the wear of a medal or a ribbon for a ruck march? Get a life POG’s.
Dude how did you get so cool? Congrats on learning how to use the term POG! I really look up to Internet warriors like yourself, a grunt, if you will. Thanks for your service big hooah!
I just finished the 2016 Camp Buehring, Kuwait. We Tucker around the base twice. 16 Mike’s in 3:23:05.
The medals were not available so we only got the certificate but that’s still pretty cool to be involved with such a time honoured event
Cool! Thanks for sharing that.
After a little research I found that in AR 600–8–22 • 11 December 2006 edition, linked below, Appendix D:
Authorized Danish Ribbons:
Denmark Royal Danish Army Patrol Tab
Royal Danish Parachutist
Badge
Royal Danish Marksmanship
Badge
* Danish Contingent March
Medal *
As of the June 2015 edition of 600-8-22, the DANCON march is not listed. However, I cannot find anything that says the DANCON ribbon unauthorized.
So, does there have to be a form that comes out that says the ribbon is no longer authorized?
I just read the 25JUN15 version of AR 600-8-22. The Danish Contigent Medal is listed but marked with note 1, “Honorary. Unless otherwise specified, this award may only be accepted and retained; it is not allowed for wear on the U.S. Army uniform.” Why would this medal have been removed from the wearable foreign badges list? – DANCON 28FEB16 Camp Arifjan, KU
Very interesting. I’m not sure why they would remove it.
I completed a Dancon March in Iraq 2005. I wondered if you guys knew whether miniature medals were in production as I would love to have one.
Look in 600-8-22 and you’ll see that the dancon march medal is authorized for acceptance and wear on the US Army uniform.
I see in the 600-8-22 that this is authorized to wear, but I’m wondering where on the uniform it is worn. On the left side above the unit awards and below the DUI? And do you wear the ribbon or the actual medal?
Hey
Have a look in US Army AR 600-8-22, appendix D, Foreing Badges.
Find Denmark and you will see that Danish Contingent March Medal is authorized for acceptance and wear on the Army uniform.
Henrik
Sadly, in the latest edition of AR 600–8–22 • 25 June 2015, the Danish March is no longer on the list. Unless I’m missing something, which I seriously hope I am, I just finished the DANCON and would really like to wear the ribbon.
I will study that closer and see. I agree David…It should be a part of the list.
Here’s what I’ve found. In the latest edition of AR 600-8-22, June 2015, the DANCON ribbon is not listed.
Appendix D:
However, in the 2006 the DANCON ribbon is listed.
That said, I cannot find anything (as of yet) that says the ribbon is not/no longer authorized.
So, at a cross roads here. Do I wear it quote old regs? Or do I leave it off in accordance with the newest reg?
David, I believe it would be best to question your chain of command on that one. Personally, I would wear the ribbon, but your leaders are the best judge in this matter. I bet that there just may have been a typo in the new regs, but you never know.
I have not heard about the DANCON March before. It sounds pretty interesting though and it sounds like a good idea.
I have no doubt that it tests you physically.
It sounds like an outstanding experience though.
I completed the Dancon while in Bosnia back in 2001..I was able to complete it in 5 hrs and 45 min carrying 42 lbs…I still hurt when I think about it.
I did it 07 carrying my SAW and 800 rounds. Took me all 8 hrs. Lol
I just did one in KAF, Afghanistan yesterday 30th Oct. My feet are still killing me! The required items were body armor helmet M4 with 5 mags M9 with 3 mags and multi-cam uniform. I don’t know the distance if i had I may not have pushed as hard.
I was actually in the one mentioned at bastion. Just gotta find my metal.
Do you personally think, the Dancon ribbon will ever be able to be worn? I complete it in Kosovo last year and sure think it was worth the accomplishment to wear on our dress uniform?
Jenn,
I earned it to and never understood why we can’t wear it on our uniform. Hopefully, the Army will change their policy in the near future, although I highly doubt it.
Chuck
I Just finished the DANCON MARCH this morning here in Afghanistan!. I didn’t prepare myself for it, actually a friend told me he would be doing it in the morning and I just had to go. I heard the minimum weight was 22 pounds and being that I’m a Marine I figured I should go heavier. 60 pounds is not a good idea! If you are a beginner or do not regularly participate in ruck marches then dont over do it. I would recommend to anyone participating that they find a way to prepare. Make sure you have the right boots/socks and be hydrated! I had a great time and was very proud of myself coming in at 3 hrs and 52 min although some have done it in just over 2 hrs. It was definitely an experience of a lifetime and I would do it all over again. Just not on a whim, next time I’ll be better prepared. Semper Fidelis.
Good job Cesar! I’m glad you finished.