Honoring the past, benefiting the present – 2024 Legacy March

Norwich University, respected for over two centuries of practical education that seamlessly merges outdoor activities with educational pursuits, just concluded the annual three-day Legacy March. The practice of experiential education was championed by Captain Alden Partridge, Norwich University’s founder. Undertaking a hike through quaint localities and historic covered bridges is not merely the honoring of an institutionally significant moment or an educational exploration of nature, but also serves as a fundraiser for The Veterans’ Place – a Northfield-based transition home and support center for homeless veterans. 

Following the devastating fire of 1866 at the Norwich, VT, campus, the institution relocated to its present location in Northfield, VT. As a tribute to this significant event in school history, an annual march is conducted, memorializing the pivotal post-fire move to the current campus home. During the march, cadets partook in enriching lessons concerning local and regional history, public policy, significant historical sites, and the resting place of Alden Partridge. 
 

As part of their 50-mile march preparations, the dedicated cadets convened pre-dawn under a gentle rain, prior to their drive to Norwich, VT. Welcomed by the NU Club of Upper Valley, they were treated to a sendoff breakfast before the Legacy March. Beginning at precisely 7:30 AM, the cadets started their hike, stopping at multiple places for educational opportunities and to clean memorial sites. Day two also featured an inspiring talk from a seasoned veteran. On Sunday, November 3, the cadets proudly returned to campus at the conclusion of the successful hike.  

While honoring and learning about the past, the cadets are also benefiting the present as they raised money for The Veterans’ Place. The facility provides structured transitional housing, meals and other services, navigating medical needs, in addition to wellness support, guidance, and accountability for homeless veterans.

From The Veterans’ Place website: “The Veterans’ Place has provided high-quality, supportive housing services to homeless veterans in Northern New England for over a decade. We collaborate closely with the Veterans Administration and all major Vermont housing and social service agencies in an effort to deliver comprehensive, integrated services required to help homeless veterans transition to stable, permanent, and affordable housing as quickly as possible.”