March. In like a lion, out like a lamb. Beware the Ides of March. Leprechauns and luck. Just a few things that come to mind for this month. I would venture to bet that “marching” isn’t something you have ever thought of when turning over your calendar for our third month. 

  Did you know that the average Army recruit marches over 100 miles during their 10-week basic training? Now add 35-40 pounds of gear for a lot of those miles. Marching is a way to move large groups of people in on efficient and orderly manner. It eliminates stragglers, keeps the group compact and moving quickly. Marching is great exercise. It improves endurance especially when carrying heavy gear. Marching also improves mental toughness. Proving to yourself that you can buckle down and go all those miles in all types of weather. Instant obedience to commands teaches discipline. Marching fosters teamwork, builds unit cohesion, improves morale, and creates a shared mindset. It also projects power and professionalism. How can you not be impressed when you see ranks of marching military personnel. Or see an Honor Guard at a funeral? Or even a marching band performing?

  I do not know what marching within the military is like. I learned to march from Mr. Wood in high school and I loved it. When I was asked to join our Legion color guard, I jumped at the chance. That Fourth of July parade requires some endurance. Especially if you are carrying a flag in the wind! We are all, basically, one entity. Our uniforms match and we move in unison. No one stands out more than anyone else. We are working together.  I can attest to the pride felt representing our unit as we present colors while the National Anthem is played. The sense of camaraderie marching among friends. The absolute PRIVILEDGE marching with our veterans.  

  We are lucky to have such an active Honor/Color guard. Thank you Post 212 for keeping our marching tradition alive.

Erin Hensel 

Auxiliary Unit 212 President