Dutch feat for Aussie marcher

Sergeant Calvin Lippiatt receives a commemorative medal from RAF Flight Lieutenant Will Still.

A ROYAL Australian Air Force SNCO has participated in the renowned Nijmegen marches in Holland.

Sergeant Calvin Lippiatt, a fire fighter on detachment with the Recruit Training Unit at RAF Halton, was part of a 13-member team from RAF Halton and High Wycombe that participated in the prestigious event.

The 86th Nijmegen marches drew military and civilian teams from around the world.
SGT Lippiatt’s team undertook four 40km marches carrying 10kg of dead weight in combat uniform and boots.

The marches began in 1909 as a way for the Dutch infantry to increase its long distance marching.

The event has evolved into an international event that tests stamina and physical strength, although bars, bands and carnivals provide a festive atmosphere.

Nijmegen is a city of about 40,000 whose population swells to 140,000 over the Nijmegen marches week.

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