GPS vs Compass

How many depend on a GPS and don't know how to use a Compass? I am bringing this up because Murphy will show-up at the wrong time and I was with the victim when his GPS failed.
Luckly I new land navagation and was able to read a compass and topo map. I always travel with both, but when electronics fail, can you read a compass and topo map?

[mFonz77]

Excellent, EXCELLENT point, and a great first post for this subforum!

I was in the Boy Scouts back in the day, and learned my compass and map skills there. I really had a good time with the Orienteering merit badge. I actually still have an old Silva that was my grandpa's, and it's still as accurate as ever.

To compare, I have an iPhone 3GS, and that thing sure is handy (especially the "auto-orient" feature), but I have gotten in certain spots where it's gotten some bad magnetic interference and been basically useless.

Another thing to keep in mind are the little "tricks" like keeping a keen eye for landmarks, and navigation using stars.

I also was a Boy Scout and was also trained by the U.S. Army. I did make it to 20 year retirement.