DM - So are you new to reenacting, or have you done something similar?

Enquirer 1 - From a re-enactment point of view, no I’m a complete newbie. I recently got into airsoft a few years ago and go to Pickering for the WW2 Railway In Wartime and the re-enactments in Whitby.
DM - I started in a similar way. I used to run one of the first WW2 airsoft teams about 20 years ago* (* at this point I then realise how old I am) then I moved onto reenacting. Do you have any kit yet?
Enquirer 1 - No, not got anything as of yet. Waiting for the big man to come then I’ll start looking into everything. I hope I’ve been nice enough, either a nice ICS M1 Garand or a WE-tech M1A1 Thompson
DM - If you can go with a M1 Garand, do that. You'll start in almost every group at the bottom rung of the ladder and a rifleman is always most desirable for all groups.

Enquirer 1 - Yeah, thinking about getting an airsoft M1 Garand. That way I can use it for airsoft, too! Got to make your way up the ladder somehow. I’m from Sheffield so might be a trek down south. 

DM - Events are spread right across the country, so some will be far, some will be local, that's just the way it is. None of the groups really have a home location. Everything is dealt with online, like memberships, and we just meet at events; or if some members live close enough, we meet up.

Enquirer 1 - Do you pay on arrival then and do you have to have public liability insurance, etc.

DM - Members all get into the shows for free. After all, without us and other groups, there is no show! We pay subs to the group and those pay for the less exciting things like insurances, cooking gas and things like that. Money also goes into buying more exciting things like display items. There is a whole list of things we would like to own! 



I had a friend request on Facebook, nothing too unusual; but this time I got a message almost right away asking -

Enquirer 2 - How do I get into reenacting? I messaged ****** group but they ignored me.

DM - Hi, so pleased you messaged me. It is a really easy hobby to get into. What did you want to reenact, anything in particular?

Enquirer 2 - What do you mean 'what do I want to reenact?'

DM - As you know in the army there are a 1001 different trades and professions. The American Army during WW2 was no different. From the different types of combat troops, the most common being rifleman, to other specialties like bazooka man, mortar man, LMG crew, radioman, etc. You could take a very alternative route and become something non-combat:  combat medic, doctor, dentist, typist, clerk, driver, mechanic, quarter master... you name it, we can fit you in.

Enquirer 2 - I see. That’s good - thank you, I just want to be regular infantry.

DM - Perfect. Well, every group is always short on regular troopers, so that would suit us perfectly.

Enquirer 2 - What kit do I need?

DM - There is a complete list on the website, however the best thing I think you should do as a brand-new person coming into the hobby, is to start with the very minimum of kit: the M42 jump suit, jump boots and an M1 helmet. You can then attend an event and be a part of everything. You'll get to meet us all, see if you like us and if we like you. As long as you're not a bayonet-wielding nutter who's going to try and stab us all, then you can join properly. From then on-wards you'll have to pay subs, but you'll be a part of the group.
Enquirer 2 - Do I need to apply for a license to shoot?

DM - No licenses are required to own blank-firing guns. You'll have to jump through some hops to purchase one, but nothing we can't help you with. If you want to own a live-firing gun and shoot blanks, then you'll need to jump through thousands of hoops, buy a gun safe and have it mounted in your house, etc. However, it does give you options for other guns.

Enquirer 2 - Where are the meets? I’m based *******shire

DM - We have members spread right across the UK, some are really local to you. Because we are spread almost nationwide, it gives us the ability to attend a huge spread of shows. We are all attending the Stoneleigh Militaria show in February. If you're attending, we would all love to meet up with you. It's also a great place to buy kit and get some bargains.

Enquirer 2 - Oh great, what do they sell there?

DM - *laughs* well, how can I put this... EVERYTHING!

Enquirer 2 - But like what?

DM - Everything military-related since time began, but mainly WW1 and WW2.

Enquirer 2 - Sounds great; I will come and meet you.

DM - Great, in the meantime if you have any other questions or need advice just let me know.

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