CAMP BONDSTEEL, Kosovo (Jan. 18, 2015) -- With rucks on their backs and boots strapped to their feet, more than 1,000 soldiers braved the cold and set out to trek 25 kilometers through the icy slush and mud.
The Danish Contingent, or DANCON, march brought troops out from all over Kosovo to participate in the quarterly event held at Camp Maréchal de Lattre de Tassigny, or CMLT, Jan. 18.
The DANCON path lead the Soldiers up several slopes and proved to be a bit more difficult than some were expecting.
"The course was really muddy, icy, and the hills were really steep," said Sgt. Josh Bartlett, an infantryman with Chaos Troop, 1st Squadron (Airborne), 40th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 25th Infantry Division. "It was very challenging."
"This is my second DANCON since I have been out here, and this one was a lot more difficult," said Bartlett, who placed 21st overall. "The combination of the snow and the weather had a lot to do with it. I am going to do the 50k next time around. I just want to push myself."
The multinational soldiers marched side by side up the trail and while some were just enjoying the march, others were there to win.
Soaked with water from head to toe, Greek army Sgt. Georgios Chrysostomidis, came in second place.
"The hardest part was in the middle for me," said Chrysostomidis. "It was full of cold water and mud. That's why my uniform is wet."
"I thought it was going to be a lot easier," laughed Chrysostomidis. "It was exciting with so many people. During the route we kept changing between first, second and third, and fourth place. Poland, America, Italy and I kept exchanging places."
Children were scattered along the path, cheering on the soldiers and hoping for candy.
"The kids gave us some strength, during the march," said Chrysostomidis. "We needed strength. Those hills were very big and took lots of energy."
Danish soldier, Pvt. John Anthony Dominguez, a medic for the DANCON, said the weather conditions made the course more dangerous.
"It's very slippery out today so it is good that there weren't any serious injuries," said Dominguez. "We were here to make sure everyone was safe and staying hydrated and that they have some energy."
The DANCON has been a Danish tradition since 1972.
"I think we can not only work together as part of NATO, but also do events like this together and march together," said Dominguez. "We can all learn about different cultures. That's what brings people together; learning about each other."
"Everyone seems to be leaving with a smile," said Dominguez. "They are all happy for completing this challenge. This is why we do the DANCON."
First place went to Poland, Greece came in second place and Italy took third. Everyone that participated received a Danish Contingent March certificate.
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