The Basics Of Reenacting

  First off, let's list what you need to be in order to reenact with the 2nd Armored Division.

  • Age 18 years or older. †
  • Able to possess a firearm.
  • Able to partake in arduous physical activities. ‡
  • A keen interest in WWII history!

CHG members marching in the Huntington Beach 4th Of July Parade in 2007

What is Reenacting?

  What exactly is reenacting? Reenactors, or more poetically known as Living Historians, are history enthusiasts who've decided to step away from the text books for a moment to immerse themselves in a specific moment in history. In a way, they're actually attempting to step in to the history books in order to get a feel of what things were like back then. By wearing and carrying all this stuff, it helps them better relate to what they've read in the books and to the stories told by the veterans themselves.

  Each Reenactor has their own reasons as to why they spend many hours and many dollars participating in such a hobby. For some, it's a means to be immersed in history. For others, it's a way to honor those who served this country by remembering their deeds and retelling them. Another reason is they want to be able to teach to others by giving them a real-life example of the soldier they are portraying. But, whether it's one reason or a combination of several, Reenacting is a fun and rewarding experience. Plus, it keeps some of our members off the streets.

2nd Armored soldiers manning a machinegun position at a Desert Battle.

How Does One Reenact?

  Well, there are many different approaches to reenacting. Some invest a lot of time, money, and effort to one small aspect of the war: such as a signalman in an infantry division, a medic in an airborne division, and so on. Others keep it general so they have the opportunity to play anything if they wanted to or to keep within a lower budget. Some will buy stuff for other countries so that they have a vault of various impressions they can do. Some play part-time and only do a couple of events a year while others attend just about any event that's out there. There is something for every level of reenactor.

  Being a reenactor is a bit like being, well, an actor. Some go to extreme lengths and create a character, complete with alternate name, hometown, and small history. Others don't take it that far. How much you want to immerse yourselves is an individual effort and any type of immmersion is accepted by our club.

Taking up positions during an Italian scenario.

How To Join Us

  So, you're interested, but you're not sure where to start. Well, the first big step you need to do is contact your recruiter. Ahem, that is, your Reenacting Group Recruiter. In 2nd Armored, recruiting inquiries should go to our Unit Leader. Figure out what you think you'd like to be involved with and drop them a line. They won't bite, nor will they bark your ear off. Remember, we're Living Historians... which kind of means were unlicensed teachers. We're here to help, not dupe you.

  We know there are a lot of other units out there to join and all of them a good quality groups to be with. What makes 2nd Armored a great unit to join is that, well, we're armored... meaning we have wheels and tracks. I guess that makes us lazy, but it also makes us fast and able to cover a lot of ground quickly that the leg units can't do without their dogs barking after awhile. Staying mobile is how we play and we have the ability to react to the ever-changing battle and to very clever enemy! 2nd Armored is also one of the oldest groups within the CHG and one of the largest. With many veteran reenactors, our boys like to play hard and have fun after the fight is over. If that's how you see yourself reenacting, visit our Contact section and drop us a line. We'll answer any questions and address any concerns you might have.

2nd Armored members at the Riverside's "A Salute To Veterans" Parade.

  †   2nd Armored has decided to go with an 18 or older policy. Members 15-17 may join the unit so long as they are accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who is also participating in the event.

  ‡   Reenacting can be physical demanding. We march, hike, run, jump, dive, crawl, and climb. We go up and down hills, cross ravines, hop over logs and rocks... all the while carrying a heavy weapons and wearing boots that are not nearly as supportive as modern footwear. It can be demanding at times. Further, some of our events can occur in extreme and inclimate weather and often in remote areas. If you have an ailment or a condition that would prevent you from being involved in physical activity, you may still be eligible to join but may be asked to not partake in the tactical events. You will be responsible for reporting any medical conditions that could be exacerbated by participating in a reenactment.

Recruiting Subsections