World War Two - U.S. Army & German
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Reenacting World War Two is very similar to reenactments of the Civil War and Revolutionary War, etc. The difference is that the uniforms, equipment, and the vehicles used during the World Wars are contemporary designs. That means you can use some plastics, drink coca-cola in a bottle, drive cars, jeeps, listen to phonographs, use land-line telephones and radio equipment. A lot of the uniforms and equipment are original and using that original equipment gives a great feeling of living the history of the Era. Also jazz music, swing dancing and big band era music is very popular and many reenactors enjoy this aspect of the hobby.
To reenact the World War II, you can expect comraderie of fellow historians who want to honor the sacrifices of their great, great-grandfathers, fathers, uncles, mothers, and even great-grandmothers. You can expect fun and excitement of loading gear and taking to the field in original wagons, jeeps, trucks, and armored vehicles of the Era. Most of all, you can gain a respect for all the people of this world who suffered through that terrible, yet glorious time in our history.
Where do the battle reenactments/public displays take place?
Several World War Two events take place throughout the year. Many tactical battles occur once each month (1 weekend) between September to May. These tacticals take place at Camp Roberts Army Base, Boy Scout Camps, and other recreational areas throughout California that are available through land-use permits. Public displays usually are during the summer months and include Old Fort MacArthur Days in San Pedro in July and parades scheduled for Memorial Day, Veteran's Day, and Fourth of July. Note: Public displays are not as stringent in authenticity as tactical reenactments can be. SEE FARBY
How much does it cost?
To build your basic uniform, it will cost approximately $700.00 This includes the cost of pants, shirt, belt, and cap. It also includes a very important piece to be authentic. BOOTS ! The proper brown leather issue-type boots is very important to make your impression look good. Nothing looks worse than having all the right uniforms, weapons, helmet, gear and then when it comes to footwear you have unauthentic boots or shoes (US boots should be dark brown leather ......NOT BLACK!).
Add another $450 to $700 dollars for a rifle and field gear. The cost for U.S. World War Two gear is a little less money.
SEE OUR U.S. WW-II UNIFORM AND EQUIPMENT PAGES FOR PHOTOS Plus info on: "What is F.A.R.B.?"
FOR GERMAN MOUNTAIN INFANTRY Uniforms: click here & Equipment: click here
NOTE: Some loaner uniforms and gear are available to new members. The purpose of this gear is NOT for interested persons to TRY OUT World War reenacting. It is for a new member who, because of budget constraints, is missing a crucial portion of gear to make his impression correct. THIS IS AN EXPENSIVE HOBBY, although after the initial purchase of basic gear, the costs will go way down. It takes about $1000.00 dollars to get all the basic gear you would need to really enjoy this hobby. Several members of this unit have invested over $30,000 dollars in buying vehicles and equipment for the enjoyment of the unit. It is not expected that every member make such a monumental purchase, however, each member is responsible in acquiring their basic uniform/equipment/weapon needed to take to the field. We are serious about honoring the sacrifices of our fathers, grandfathers, uncles, & neighbors. We won't force you to come out to have fun. You get what you put into it. We strive hard to be authentic, learn our infantry jobs, and have fun in the process. If you are 17 1/2 years or older, healthy, motivated to learn, willing to do your research, and still interested, READ ON !
Membership Dues in the California Historical Group is $25.00 for a year. Additionally, some units charge a Unit Membership: 35th ID Dues are $50.00 a year. Dues pay for newsletters, equipment, land-use permits, beverages, etc.
Battle Fees at the Tactical Reenactments cost $25.00 for each member and pays for Barracks-Use Rental, Insurance, etc.
NOTE: If you bring an authorized WWII military vehicle to a CHG event your battle fee is waived (free).
Prospective Recruits: DO NOT BUY UNIFORMS OR EQUIPMENT UNTIL YOU TALK TO THE UNIT LEADER or DESIGNEE! You will end up buying at least one wrong item.
Still interested in joining "Charlie" Company, 35th Division Reenactors?
Contact: Cpl Lou Evans at email address usnavyav8r@yahoo.com
OR "98th Gebirgsjäger Regiment" - German Mountain Infantry?
Contact: Walther Ritter at email address hannaboy@pacbell.net
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