Examples of failure to prepare adequately for military operations in cold regions can be found in history from the time of Hannibal to the Korean conflict. Cold, darkness, wind, snow, ice, muskeg, glaciers, vast unpopulated areas, insects, ice fog, and whiteouts are well-known examples of factors which characterize the harsh unyielding arctic environment. The papers presented in this symposium will hopefully assist in serving as a stimulus for a more concentrated effort toward resolving the problems of operating in cold regions.