The present invention relates generally to a system and method for group tracking wherein at least one individual within a tracked group is provided with an article of footwear equipped with a wireless tracking device. The wireless tracking device is configured for bi-directional communications with a monitoring center, wherein the wireless tracking device is adapted to determine and store absolute location information of the individual wearing the wireless tracking device and the location information of at least one other individual within the tracked group. Each individual's tracking device has a unique identifier for identifying the individual with a monitoring center at a remote location and/or portable monitoring unit.