Road marches are a part of the Infantry's life. They are a process of endurance, discipline, and strength; a time to discover the mental and physical boundaries within yourself, while learning the importance functioning as a team. No matter how many vehicles the Army has, a pair of boots and ruck are always the most reliable fall back.

It was a typical hot, muggy Mississippi evening. The SECFOR Battalion was marching back to the the main post. Over 700 men in two columns, one on each side of the road, walking in the stealth of the night. All that could be heard was the rhythm of boots striking the ground and the firm click of each soldiers load settling after each step. The only visible sign of the columns were the green glow of chem-lights strapped to the their backs.

As the Battalion drew closer to Camp Shelby's main post, street lights illuminated their presence. The heat and humidity began to show it's weight, as squad leaders moved about to share their water and give words to encourage those that were struggling. This was the last leg of the march which is always the most challenging and the most inspirational part of the endurance. It is a time that you pull from within to overcome the mental and physical pain to find renewed energy that will ultimately carry you home.

Walking in the dead of night is a quiet, meditative process. Distance is beyond the grasp of the senses, as visual cues are absent. Each step brings you closer to a place you can only imagine, without really knowing how far you have actually travelled. What begins as an exercise of military drill, ends as a metaphor for life.

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Copyright, Scott Kesterson- 2006

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