wwii historical reenactment society ~ oct 2009

7/31/2019 WWII Historical Reenactment Society ~ Oct 2009

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Rockford

here is one word that all WWII reenactors in the Midwest where themere mention will elicit extreme excitement. That is Rockford. Thelargest event on the HRS calendar is upon us. The scuttlebutt says

possibly 900 WWII reenactors could converge on the Midway Village

Museum on September 26. Whatever the number of reenactors will be thisevent has grown into one of the largest WWII events in the United States.

All the units involved in the event whether they have frontline foxholes, anHQ setup, a crisp formation, or an impressive display of home front itemswill be looking their best. Beyond all this the most important this to keep inmind is safety. You have heard it before but do not dismiss it. Be aware ofyour surroundings at all times and be very mindful of your fellow reenactorsand also the spectators. If you are in doubt do not take the shot. Therewill always be another skirmish to fire off a few rounds. On Sundayafternoon we all want to return to our homes and families tired butunscathed already thinking about Rockford next year.

T

See you in the field,

Jonathan StevensWWIIHRS Vice President

2. Billy Tucci, "Sgt. Rock" Honored by US Army.

3. S&A Committee Report

4. AAR: Traxlers5. The PTR44

6. AAR: Batavia IL

7. Bylaw Proposal

9. Tactical!

11. 2nd Marines Take Beach!

12. Lister Bags

15. Safety and Authenticity Regulations

18. Board Meeting Minutes

22. 12 Gauge Blanks

23. Rockford Schedule

Sep 24-27, WWII Days, Rockford IL.

Sep 25-27, Walk Back in Time Living History, MexicoMO.

Oct 24, Operation Market Garden, Big Lake MN

Nov 6-8, Wade House Tactical, Greenbush WI

Nov 7, Ottawa Veteran's Day Event, Ottawa KS

Dec 19, Battle of the Bulge, Big Lake MNFo r m o r e in f o r m a t i o n s e e:

h t t :/ / w o r ld w a r tw o h r s.o r / Ev en t s.h t m


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From the Safety and Authenticity

Committee:The 2009 S&A Committee is currently composed of20 members from a variety of units in the HRS. Thefirst order or business was to review and update theexisting S&A rules. This was accomplished in late

August after much debate throughout the late springand summer. The results of this work is now on thewebsite and printed here in the Edge. Overall thechanges and updates have reinforced thecommitment of the HRS to promoting safety as themost fundamental aspect of our reenactments. Aclose second is to uphold high standards toaccurately portray those men and women of theSecond World War. With in mind please read throughthe S&A regulations. They are not perfect and if youhave an idea that should be included please contact

any member of the S&A Committee.Two questions have been

frequently asked. One is regardingthose under age 18 participating inbattles and the regulations concerningvehicles. First the S&A regulationsstate that no one under age 16 mayparticipate with either a weapon or inuniform in any battle. Recently inresponse to a question at a boardmeeting earlier this year the HRS

insurance carrier, Nautilus, was askedabout those under 18 carryingweapons in battles. The responsewas that no one under age 18 maycarry a functional weapon. Howeverthose 16-17 may participate inbattles in a role that does not utilizefunctional weapons such as ammobearer, mortar team member, combatphotographer, medic, and so on.

Please contact me if

any other clarification is needed.A further question has been regarding the

section of the regulations on vehicles. This sectionhas not been changed or updated. If you think yourreproduction vehicle may be in question send a photoof it to the S&A Committee along with some historicalreferences.

Be safe and be authentic. See you in the field!

S&A Committee2009 Members:Scott AtchisonScott BaconIan BakerRob CoffmanCraig DvorakRussell DvorakElliott JamesDavid JamesonRhea Jeske-Murwin

Gary JorstadRobert LeinweberDoug LogeSean Loughran

Alan MiltichJohn NewtonDave SerikakuBryce SeykoRichard "Zak" SobczakJonathan StevensGrayden Zuver

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World War Two HRSBoard of Directors

2009-10PresidentDavid Jameson, 2nd Inf. Division15632 Polk CircleOmaha, NE [email protected]

Vice PresidentJonathan Stevens, 9th Inf. Div.0N349 Cottonwood DriveWheaton, IL [email protected] Dvorak, 2nd Mar. [email protected] RepresentativeWilliam Sheets, 505

PIR, 82

Abn. 6817

Everglades Court Indianapolis, IN46217 [email protected] RepresentativeElliott James, No.11 Group RAF497 Wagner StreetRoseville, MN [email protected] RepresentativeScott Atchison, 6. SS "Nord"P.O. Box 61 Ossian, In [email protected]

Website StaffWebmasterJohn Olsen, 9th

Inf. Div.

9N130 Muirhead Rd.Elgin, IL [email protected] WebmasterJoshua Olsen, 167th [email protected]

Newsletter StaffEditorTroy LaFaye, 167th SPC

[email protected]/DesignJoshua Olsen, 167th [email protected]

Contributors (Alphabetical, last name)167th Signal Photographic Co.

Dr. Anton FarbsDavid Halseth

Richard Zak SobczakJonathan Stevens

Robb Walters

Timothy D. WilliamsTo submit articles/photos email

[email protected]
mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]://../My%20Documents/iFolder.jstevens/[email protected]://../My%20Documents/iFolder.jstevens/[email protected]://../My%20Documents/iFolder.jstevens/[email protected]://../My%20Documents/iFolder.jstevens/[email protected]://../My%20Documents/iFolder.jstevens/[email protected]://../My%20Documents/iFolder.jstevens/[email protected]:[email protected]://../My%20Documents/iFolder.jstevens/[email protected]://../My%20Documents/iFolder.jstevens/[email protected]:[email protected]://../My%20Documents/iFolder.jstevens/[email protected]://../My%20Documents/iFolder.jstevens/[email protected]://../My%20Documents/iFolder.jstevens/[email protected]://../My%20Documents/iFolder.jstevens/[email protected]://../My%20Documents/iFolder.jstevens/[email protected]://../My%20Documents/iFolder.jstevens/[email protected]:[email protected]


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BILLY TUCCI, "SGT. ROCK"

HONORED BY U.S. ARMYby CBR News Team, Editor

Fri, January 9th, 2009 at 9:39AM PSTOfficial Press Release

hile hes been busy infusing the real-life exploits of Americas fighting menduring World War II into the world of DC Comics Easy Company in thepages of Sgt. Rock: The Lost Battalion, apparently the men and women of

todays U.S. Army have been appreciating his efforts.This week, Billy Tucci, the writer-artist of the current six-issue Sgt. Rock

project, received a very special post-Christmas present via express mail fromCamp Victory in Iraq: a perfectly folded American flag and beautifully framedcitation from the United States Army.

The citation accompanying the flag read as follows:The Flag of the United States of America Is Presented to Billy Tucci.Thank you for all your Support.This certifies that the accompanying flag was flown over the Headquarters of the Multi-National Corps - Iraq in your honor during Operation Iraqi Freedom26 December 2008.Command Sgt. Major Joseph R. Allen and Lloyd J. Austin III, Lieutenant General,Commanding.

Spurred by the recent December 5, 2008 article in the Army Times feature on Tucci and Sgt.Rock (which was showcased on the periodicals cover and a full page, color article), therecognition was also helped along by comic book fan Sgt. Desiree Rancon.

I met Desiree years ago at a comic convention and we've been great friends ever since,Tucci said. She's a comic fan, but more importantly a great patriot and an American hero servingin Iraq.

Sgt. Rock: The Lost Battalion retells the astounding last stand by a small number of trappedUS Infantrymen of the 36th Division and their rescue by the American-bornJapanese soldiers of the highly decorated 442nd Regimental CombatTeam. In addition to DCs famed Sgt. Rock and Easy Company, the eventsand many of the supporting incidental characters in the story are based onreal life. Veterans of the actual campaign have accompanied Tucci duringTour of Heroes signings, giving fans a chance to meet the heroes of the

greatest generation. Some readers have no doubt wonderedwhy I included actual units and other militaryand historical components in this storyinstead of going for the traditional comic bookshootem up, Tucci said. But I've alwaysknown just who I was writing this book for --the actual veterans of World War 2, theirfamilies, and todays sentinels of Liberty, likeDesiree. I want them all to know just howthankful I am for their selfless service to ourcountry and their incredible guidance with this

series. Thishonor is muchmore theirs thanmine.Sgt. Rock: TheLost Battalion isnow on sale.

Tucci not onlydid extensive research in the unitsinvolved in the story, interviewedcountless vets, but joined thereenacting community to get a firsthand look at the visuals of WWII. Herelied heavily on the advice andfeedback from reenactors regardingauthenticity of equipment, uniforms,vehicles and weapons. He even basedon of the main characters on some ofthe reenactment groups he spoke with.

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War re-enactment draws vetsBy Mark Fischenich

Free Press Staff WriterLE CENTER June 07, 2009 12:11 am

Reprinted with permission

he wind-driven rain and low ceilingappeared to be good news Saturday forthe men of the Panzer division facing an

advance by the soldiers of the U.S. Army101st Airborne Division. There would be no

allied air support for this battle.But the large explosive charges were

already in place on the grassy field atTraxlers Hunting Preserve, originally plannedto be detonated as the bombs dropped byan Air Corps plane that was grounded by themiserable weather. So instead of letting thecharges go to waste, the explosionsrepresented rounds falling from unseenheavy artillery, and the Germans ended upbeing routed anyway.

The raw rainy weather drove away the airsupport and kept most spectators at home as

well, but scores of people were still on handfor Traxlers Military History Day Saturday an event that fell on the 65th anniversary ofthe D-Day landings on the beaches ofNormandy in France.

Reminiscing, Jim Boemer said whenquizzed about what prompted an 81-year-oldMaple Grove man to be standing, drenched,in a cold southern Minnesota field.Boemer served in the very final days of WorldWar II, not in Europe where the battlereenactment was set, but in the South Pacific.

Army? Boemer was asked.Marine Corps, he answered, a bit gruffly.Dont say Army to either one of them,

Craig Boemer advised, referring to his uncleJim and his father, Dick.Thats a dirty word, explained Dick Boemerof Edina, who served with the Corps during

the Korean War.

Craig Boemer had been to Traxlers a yearago and was impressed enough to bring the

elderly veterans down for this years militaryhistory extravaganza. Even with weather thatwas about as bad as June can produce, theywere excited to be there.

The only disappointment for Dick Boemerwas that the event which also included re-enactors from the Civil War, World War I andthe Vietnam War didnt have a Koreancomponent.

Hes only mentioned that about 20 times,his son said.

Of course, everybody knows it was theforgotten war, Dick Boemer said. We neverget a clean shake.

Gabe Rios of Coon Rapids, three youngchildren in tow, came because he doesntwant any of Americas wars forgotten by thenext generation.

Were home-schoolers and we kind of liketo show them history, Rios said, huddlingagainst his shivering youngest child and tryingto position a pair of umbrellas to provideprotection against the horizontal rainfall. Andwe want to honor our soldiers on this day.

With the explosions, machine-gun fire,German half-tracks and Sherman tank, soggyinfantry men firing rifles and mortars, the WW

T

German armor and troops move into

defensive positions. John Cross

American soliders advance on

German positions. John Cross

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II battle was the most dramatic of the daysdemonstrations. Just before the battlebegan, Rios talked about the two-fold lessonhe wants his kids to learn.

The first: That we should never enter intowar lightly, and we need to remember that waris usually the last option.

And the second: To thank our troops,current and former, that have served in ourarmed forces.

Jim Boemer, who served on Guam, thoughtSaturdays weather provided a small lessonabout the more mundane misery that soldiersfaced during World War II. Americans foughtin the scorching desert of North Africa, the

bitter cold of Germany and the rain-soakedmud and volcanic ash of Pacific islands.Unbelievable, he said. The conditions ofwar in some of these zones were beyondbelief.

He wanted to venerate, with hisattendance on a damp and chilly day, all ofthe soldiers who served in wars from thecountrys founding to the present. And hewanted to honor the service of all of the

troops, even the Army guys.Our very existence depends on whathappened, he said. Its why we are what weare today. Were still the free nation that weare today because of the sacrifices that weremade in the past.

World Wide World War Two ReenactingBy Jonathan Stevens, 9

thInfantry Div.

nce again German engineering has developed a wunder weapon, this time for

WWII reenactors and collectors. Many reenactors have probably seen the Sport-

Systeme Dittrich website http://www.ssd-weapon.com/ and their semi-automatic

copies of various WWII weapons that are available in Europe and Canada. Seeing an SSD

weapon like the BD44, a semi-automatic copy of the MP44, in the United States seemed

impossible since more than one firearms importer had tried to make the BD44 available

in the US without success. However, a company named PTR91 claims to have been able

to legally import the weapon. Their version of the BD44 is called the PTR44 and in a

press release from August 22 on their website, PTR 91 claims that the first weapons will

be ready for delivery in October 2009 to include one magazine per rifle. The rifle will

most likely be virtually identical to the BD44 that SSD describes as a completely new

manufactured rifle meaning most parts of the MP44 will not fit the semi automatic

BD44. The new rifle will of course utilize 8mm kurz ammunition. PTR91 states that

they are only importing a limited number of these rifles. The price is not yet listed

but reportedly will be in the $4500 range putting it out of the reach of the majority of

reenactors unless trades for minivans are acceptable. To be notified when the rifles are

ready for purchase contact PTR91 at http://ptr91.com/

O

.

Picture Credit: PTR91 Co.

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World War II Re-Enactors Battle in BataviaThe Beacon News May 25, 2009

By Andre SallesReprinted with permission

t was a calm, clear afternoon in Batavia.The sun beats down over the fieldbehind the Veterans of Foreign Warshall, and all is still and quiet.

Suddenly, there is a rustle of leaves,and two men in combat gear burst into view.Seconds later, the stillness is broken by the

eardrum-rattling sound of gunfire. More andmore men emerge from the trees, firing at twosoldiers caught unawares on the east end ofthe field. They return fire, and within moments,several men are dead or wounded, someclutching their legs as medical officersbandage them up.

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Without warning, a truck full ofsoldiers drives up, and the battle begins inearnest. The cracklings of rifles seems tocome from everywhere, as men dive for cover,aim, and fire.

A few minutes later, and its all over there are about 20 soldiers left standing, and as they leavethe field, the crowd of spectators starts to applaud. Then the soldiers invite the children standing off tocollect spent cartridge casings, which litter the grass. The kids squeal with delight, and rush out eager for

their treasure.This was the scene Sunday afternoon as the World War Two Historical Reenactment Society

celebrated Memorial Day weekend. The society is centered in Chicago, but draws WWII buffs from all overthe Midwest they spend huge amounts of money and countless hours of research to bring off theseapproximations of warfare.

Its love for the veterans, said John Westphall of St. Charles, when asked why he does this. Wedont want people to forget, This brings history alive for young kids.

Like most re-enactors, Westphall has maintained a lifelong interest in military operations,specifically World War Two. Hes been involved with the society for about three years, and on Sunday, heparticipated in two pitched battles. The skirmishes were designed to imitate the average small conflict in theEuropean theater, between 1944 and 1945.

The uniforms are often re-creations, but the guns are real and they fire blank ammunition. To thebest of their abilities, the societys members try to capture the way a battle would have looked and sounded.

For Brad Ferguson of St. Charles, the initial shock was the cost he said he spent between $500and $1000 on his uniform and weaponry. But the chance to own these things, and have the opportunity touse them, was a draw for him.

For me, its an excuse to collect neat stuff, he said chuckling.Many of these re-enactors had family members who served in World War II, and ignited their

interest in preserving the wars history. For 17 year-year-old Joshua Olsen of Elgin there with his fatherJohn, it was an uncle whose father fought in the war. While his father fought in Sundays battle, the youngerOlsen played a combat photographer, hiding in the trees and snapping pictures.

Joshua Olsen said he feels different from many his age. He is home schooled, and his family isheavily into military history. He live in a sea of (olive drab) green, his dad chuckled. But he has a passionfor this, and has been to re-enactments since he was 13.

Every good war needs its enemy, which means someone has to play the Germans. One of thosepretend-Nazis on hand Sunday was Doug Loge of Aurora, who works as a substitute teacher in the eastAurora School District. Loge has been acting out World War II battles since 2005, and he said playing aGerman is no different for him than playing an American.

I think a soldier is a soldier, just fighting for the ideals of his country," he said. Soldiers are all the

same. Ask Loge why he does what he does, and youll hear about re-enactor moments.We all talk about them, he said. Its when you feel like youre in the moment, 65 years ago. It

only lasts two or three seconds, but its a cool buzz.While all of the re-enactors enjoy what they do, the real reasons for doing it run deeper theyre

trying to preserve history, and make it come alive for the younger generation.Were trying to honor the people who did this for real, said John Olsen.Half these guys are vets, and people dont get what that sacrifice means to families, and to the

people who had to do it.

Omar Shaker, of Chicago, portrays a U.S. soldier.

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WWIIHRS PROPOSED BY LAW CHANGESSeptember 2009

ARTI CLE I I I : MEMBERSHI P

Sect io n 4 . DI SCHARGIN G OF MEMBERS

Any member may be discharged from the Society by a majority vote of the Board of Directors for convictions of

federal and state laws, federal and state unlawful acts against the Society or its officers, or for violation of

Society by-laws and/or Safety and Authenticity Rules. Any member discharged for any of these reasons shall not

be eligible for any refund, in part or whole of any dues paid. The member may also be subject to criminal

prosecution.

The member may appeal the finding through a hearing, organized as a teleconference not less than 45 days after

recommended removal by the board. A meeting will then be convened for disposal of the charges, with the jury

being unit commanders. After the meeting, unit commanders will be given 14 days to mail in their vote to

remove or retain the board member in office. The date shall be determined on the postmark on the letter, and

two weeks shall be waited before a public counting of the ballots can occur. The ballots must be kept and made

available for public viewing for not less than one year after the vote is complete.

ARTI CLE VI : BOARD OF DI RECTORS

Sect io n 2. NUMBER AND TENURE

The number of Directors shall be seven (7). Newly elected Directors shall succeed the Directors named in the

Articles of Incorporation. Board members shall be elected to serve for a period of two (2) calendar years and may

run for re-election. All Directors must be members of the Society. Al l cand ida tes runn ing fo r a pos i t ion on

the Board o f D i rec to rs mus t have been a member in good s tand ing o f t he Soc ie t y f o r a t leas t t he

prev ious twe lve (12) consecut ive months p r io r t o t he cand ida te ' s p roc lamat ion o f cand idacy . An y

cand ida te , o r member o r t he board may no t be a re la t ive o f any o ther board members , t o inc lude

fa ther , son , daughter , m other , and any o ther re la t ionsh ip inc lud ing f i r s t cous in . Th is also inc ludes

re la t ionsh ips by mar r iage l i ke son- in - law, daughter - in - law, mother - in - law, and s tep sons and

daughters . Add i t iona l ly , no tw o board mem bers may res ide in t he same res idence i f no t re lated . A

re la t ive o f a board mem ber may r un fo r an o f f i ce in t he HRS, as long as the te rm s o f t he s i t t ing boardm e m b e r a n d c an d id a t e d o n o t o v e r l a p i n a n y w a y .

Sect ion 5. REMOVAL FROM OFFI CE

1. Any Board member may be removed from office for:

Failing to attend meetings/inactivity of board actions for 4 months, violation of federal and state laws as

reported through a conviction or pleading of guilty in court, misappropriation of goods or property

belonging to the Society, or for flagrant disregard for the current by-laws of the Society.

2. The process for removal is:

1. Anyone in the General Membership may submit a written statement of charges accompanied

with documentation that substantiates such charges, to the Board of Directors.

2. Within forty-five (45) days of receiving the written statement, the Board of Directors then will

convene a hearing to review the charges, interview all concerned and/or involved parties. A

teleconference meeting will then be convened for disposal of the charges, with the jury being

unit commanders. After the meeting, unit commanders will be given 14 days to mail in their

vote to remove or retain the board member in office. The date shall be determined on the

postmark on the letter, and two weeks shall be waited before a public counting of the ballots

can occur. The ballots must be kept and made available for public viewing for not less than

one year after the vote is complete.

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3. If the action taken by the Board of Directors is not satisfactory to the charging member, or the

individual charged he or she may present the charges of impeachment to the general

membership through the Society's newsletter.

3. If appealed, the final solution will be determined by a majority of the votes received from the

membership via a mail-in ballot.

ARTI CLE XV: EMERGENCY POWERS ACT

In the event of any unforeseen or unpredictable situation that may endanger the SOCIETY, the officers of the

Board of Directors are empowered to take whatever action is deemed necessary to protect the SOCIETY and it's

by-laws

Submitter: _Tim Scherer___________________

Unit CO: __ Tim Scherer __________________

Additional Unit CO _Robert Leinweber_______

Board Member: __David Jameson___________

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I support the amendment to Article III section 4.

I do not support the amendment to Article III section 4.

I support the amendment to Article VI section 2.


I support the amendment to Article VI section 5.


I support the elimination of Article XV.

I do not support the elimination to Article XV.

Please mail your ballot by Oct 28 to:

Jonathan Stevens0N349 Cottonwood Dr,

Wheaton, IL 60187

Note: Photocopies of this ballot are acceptable.

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TACTICAL!!!Article by Timothy D. Williams, T/5

Photos by Pvt. Joe Baril

hose words, for many WWII re-enactors, are what they live for. For them its not about thedisplay, the show for the public, its about the action, the noise and firing real weapons. Notfor me; this was my first WWII event ever; an event I had been preparing myself for, for the

last four years.

TAfter driving across two states and spending eight hours in the car I finally got to the

event. The Windsor Tactical is an annual summer tactical event held in Windsor, Vermont. Nospectators, no public displays, just like minded folks out to recreate a period in history. It wasFriday afternoon and many of the guys were already out digging foxholes and establishingdefensive lines. The Germans were ensconced in a traditional trench dug several years beforeand added to every year of the event. It is D-Day plus one and the Americans were here to stay.

I checked in at the registration desk, was issued my K ration for the event and escorted tothe command post. I was joining up with another combat photographer to form a photographiccombat unit. Normally it would consist of a movie photographer, a still photographer and a driveras each combat unit needed to be highly mobile and each was issued a vehicle. Neither of usowns one so we were to be embedded with the infantry unit; in this case Company B, 104

th

Infantry Regiment, 26th Infantry Division. The 26th did not participate in the Normandy invasion sofor this event they were portraying a Third Army rifle company. We, Joe Baril and I, wereportraying a combat unit of the 166 th SPC, Joes normal impression. During the war the 166th

was assigned to cover Third Army units

of which the 26th Division belonged.As the sun started to go down,

the clouds started to move in. NewEngland had already spent the last fewweeks with what seemed like endlessrain. Orders were issued to break outraincoats and ponchos to be worn. Nothaving acquired either yet, I wasunfortunately left to sit out the eveningsevents in the CP. I couldnt have gottenany pictures worth anything. I was notto be disappointed though. This eventwas to be an overnight total immersion

event.Being D-Day plus one, many

airborne units had been miss-droppedbehind the German lines and some took days to rendezvous with other airborne assets. At duskthe organizers, wanting to throw in some realism, dropped three airborne units at variousdifferent locations miles behind the German lines. There was a British paratrooper unit and a uniteach of the 82nd and 101st Airborne Divisions. They were to meet up with the other units andsurvey the enemy emplacements for the next days events; along with a little harassment andfirepower.

At the CP we could hear distant gunfire as the airborne units started to engage the rear ofthe German lines. The rifle company was doing its best to stay dry and guard against enemyinfiltration. No sooner had the gunfire dyed down a little did we hear a phoosh and seconds laterthe night was lit up like it was daytime. Aerial Flares! The movies just dont do them justice. You

could see anything that was moving. Then the machine gun fire started. I believe some of thetroops learned their lesson after the first flare. The CP was up on a hill and we had a grand viewof both lines. Way off in the distance we could just make out where one of the other Germanemplacements must have been as we could see a lot of muzzle flashes and hear sporadicmachine gun fire. The rain continued and most everyone retired back to their encampmentsbefore 11 p.m. Some of the guys had shelter halves and the rest of us stayed in a pyramidaltent. Sometime during the night the rain stopped.

The next morning, after equipment checks, film loading, light metering and setting up myvarious cameras, I felt I was ready to go. The rifle company was mustering and I did get severalshots of them receiving their final instructions.

All of the Allied troops marched out of the camp to organize a mile or so up the ridge linewhere the mornings battle was to begin. Joe and I were all set to follow when one of thenoncombatant members with a ton truck (jeep) volunteered to drive us up to the jump off point.We were pretty loaded down with gear and equipment and took our jeep driver up on his offer. 9
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Now we were starting to feel like a real combat camera unit. After we got dropped off up

the hill we met up with the two squads we would be shadowing for the remainder of the day.We spent the morning locked in pretty close proximity to the Axis forces, trading rifle and

machinegun fire. As we advanced through the darkened hardwood forest, the platoonencountered fierce pockets of resistance and several snipers who proceeded to take out riflemanone by one. One of them took out the Lt. who also happened to be operating the platoonsmachine gun.

After falling back and several photo opportunities later, we emerged from the woods intobrightly lit fields of long grass. This was great for photos but it didnt do much in the way of coverfrom the enemy. As we all made our way down through the fields, the German machine guns

opened up from the woods on the far side. Progress was slow but with the help of several of theairborne troopers, most of the platoon made it through. Those who didnt were in a holdingpattern until the next round began; this included my fellow movie cameraman Joe, a causality ofthe last engagement.

Soon enough we were back chasing the enemy through the woods and found ourselveson the backside of the German trenches. Several machine gun engagements later found us in abreak in the action. One of the ton trucks found us and served up some B rations. Beef stew,fresh rolls, bug juice and a D ration (chocolate bar) saw us back in the action. It was now time forthe final assaults on the German entrenchments.

The platoon wound its way through somepretty thick brush and quietly came up on theenemy positions. Grenades were handed roundand I checked what film I had for the final assault.In they went -- with Joe and I in the rear trying tocapture this final moment.

The other Allied units had already triedand failed in their attempts to rout the Germans;now it was our turn. Grenades were launched andthrown and the assault was begun. The sound ofgunfire was everywhere. Everyone who had aweapon was firing. Just as the platoon wasbreaking out of the brush cover someone shoutedCeasefire! There was a real casualty on the fieldof battle. One of the fellows had taken a prettybad fall and twisted his leg and ankle. Themomentum was gone; the thrill of that last assault swiftly dissipated as our thoughts turned to ourdowned comrade. It seemed the Germans had maintained their defensive position again. A

truck was called and quickly evacuated our fallen comrade back to the CP for evaluation.With the battle over, we all gathered at the German trench line to scope out what we had

been up against. It was quite a sight seeing these battle weary soldiers from opposite sidesjoking together and sharing a smoke; reminiscing about this days events and past encounters asfriends. The German troops ended their long hot day with a dip (some skinny) in the pondbetween the Allied and Axis lines. The allies marched back up the hill and after a final musterbroke into groups to debrief the day.

As I sat, now unencumbered by all of the equipment I had been carrying, and emptied mycanteens of the last of their contents, I caught a mere glimpse of what our WWII veteransendured, day in and day out for all those many months of the war. This was the experience I hadwanted to get out of my first event. It surely will not be my last.

For me it is still about portraying our forefathersand keeping their memories and sacrifices in the hearts

and minds of Americans; but I sure did enjoy the action,noise and all that firepower!

[Timothy Williams is a member of the 167th

SignalPhoto Company (HRS) and lives in Maine. Joe Barillives in Vermont and portrays a combat photographerwith the 166th Signal Photo Company and is a memberof the 26th Yankee Division WWII HistoricalReenactment Group]

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t must have beendemoralizing for theJapanese defenders,when peering through a

shroud of early morning fogthey spied the U.S. Marineamphibious assault force.This assault force containingthe 2nd Division, 2nd Regiment,2nd Battalion, Easy Companyalong with elements of the 1stMarine Division came in twowaves of amtracs andDUKWs. It was not an easylanding as the JapaneseImperial Marines fought hardfrom their machine gun nestsand pillboxes for every grainof sand. But despite initiallytaking some heavy losses anddespite having the first wavegetting pined down on the beach,the gyrenes with their Gung Hospirit charged ahead!

I

Photo of the Marines of E/2/2 in the early morning hours of June

20,th

just before embarking on the amphibious assault craft to

attack Mount Sandibachi. Photo by Joshua Olsen.

It was never in question that the Marines would taste victory. Their amphibious assault

training back in April assured that. What was not known was the exact number of Japanesedefenders. Air reconnaissance was nearly useless, for the Japanese defenders were so well dug

in and camouflaged that attimes, you could walk right bythem and not see them. Thiswily and nearly invisible foewas hard to beat but for theMarines, not unbeatable. Yes,there were casualties and thesand was stained a deepcrimson red from thetheatrical blood! Through aseries of flanking maneuvers,

the Marines of Easy Companywere able to fight their way tothe top of Mount Sandibachiand victory! This all tookplace in front of thousands ofnative on-lookers that inhabitthe area.

Over all, the St.Joe /Benton Harbor event came offvery well, with the onlyweather SNAFU being onFriday night when somecanvas hating storms rolled

Victorious, hard fightin gyrenes of E/2/2 hold a captured

battle scared Imperial Japanese flag. Photo by ErichAbens.

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through. The free Saturday morning breakfast of blueberry pancakes, sausage, juice and hotcoffee was greatly appreciated. Thanks to all those fine volunteers who got up before the crackof dawn to prepare and serve it.

We had a good turnout of allies and axisre-enactors and above all, no serious mishaps,although for a moment it looked rather grave forthe Higgins boat during the D-Day operation.

After lowering its ramp and having the troopsdisembark, the crew could not get the ramp up

fast enough and she began taking on lake waterand tossing about in the waves. The ramp hasto be hand cranked up on the Higgins boat andfinally it was raised into place and the waterpumps cleared the deck of water. Besides theHiggins boat, we had 2 amtracs and 2 DUKWs.

It is most unfortunate that this will not bea yearly event. Amphibious landings are to fewand far between, and making one on originalWW II landing craftwell it just doesnt get any

better than that! Events of this size always call formuch work and organization and at the top of the listfor making this event happen is Jan and Bill Sheets.

Many hours and long trips from Indy to BentonHarbor had to take place in order for this event to happen. So my helmet is off to them and all ofthe other members of their team.

Thanks to Zak Sobczak, Unit Commander of the 2nd Marines, E Co.

Bag , Water, Sterilizing: AKA The Lyster BagBy Dave Halseth, Unit Commander of the 117

th, 30

thID HRS

time tApparently, the Military no longer recommends use ofthe Lyster bag for drinking water. But since we are WWII re-creationists, we'll probably end up using one fromo time. Here is some info Ive found from research on

its origins, variations and use. I hope you find it useful.

From Merriam-Webster:Main Entry: Lister bagVariant(s): also Lyster bag \ lis-tr- bag\Function: noun : a canvas water bag used especially forsupplying military troops with chemically purified drinkingwater.

According to OLIVE DRAB History of the Military Lyster

Bag: purification of drinking water by the use of liquidchlorine was developed in 1910 by Major Carl RogersDarnell, Professor of Chemistry at the Army Medical School.In the same time period, Major (later Col.) William J. L. Lyster (1869-1947) of the Army MedicalDept., used a solution of calcium hypochlorite in a linen bag to treat water. Lyster's methodbecame the standard for U.S. ground forces in the field and in camps, implemented in the form ofthe Lyster Bag (also spelled Lister Bag). The Lister Bag was in common use from before WorldWar I through the Vietnam War. Lyster Bags would be found wherever there was anencampment. In addition to its role in providing drinking water, the Lyster Bag was a generalwater resource for cooking, showers, medical use and many other requirements. The Lyster Baghas been replaced by modern methods such as reverse osmosis systems and by the increasingavailability of packaged waterin plastic bags and bottles for ground troops.

Description of the Lyster / Lister Bag: Although commonly called the Lyster Bag (or Lister

Marines hit the beach after disembarking from

their amtrac during the PTO landing. Photo

by Erich Abens.

Staged Photo of GIs filling Canteensfrom early war Version.

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Bag) the correct modern nomenclature is"Bag, Water, Sterilizing" with NSN 4610-00-268-9890. The Lyster Bag was acomponent of field feeding equipment,such as the Mobile Kitchen Trailer, withone or two Lister Bags suppliedaccording to the unit size of the kitchen,issued approximately one per 100persons. The newer ContainerizedKitchen does not include the Lister Bag.

The 36 gallon capacity Lyster Bag wasapproximately 36 inches tall by 22 inchesin diameter. The bag included a rope forhanging, a lid/cover, and had six waterfaucets around the base. In use, it washung from an improvised tripod of tent

poles or locally cut material, hung away from anything that could cause potential contamination,such as a tree. A trained technicianwould fill the bag, then put chlorine ampoules into the water to sterilize it. After testing the waterfor potability, it was available for filling canteens, cooking, or any purpose.

The Early War Version appears to have had 4-5 Spigots (made from Brass, Steel and plasticor Bakelite type material) and a "flat top" type top cover. The bag (you'll notice in the photos) hasa rounded appearance at the bottom.

Ive seen one that was dated 1943. It had a white "vinyl like" coating inside of the bag and thesame type coating in OD on the outside of the bag -- which keeps the bag from sweating orleaking. The vinyl like material is like the material used for ponchos & raincoats but less pliable.

The Later or Mid War version appears to have had 5 Spigots (made from Steel orPlastic/Bakelite) and "Pyramidal type" cover. The bottoms are more "squared off" as opposed tothe earlier bags rounded appearance.

They are just a straight canvas bag with no lining This version will sweat/leak -- this sweatinghelps keep the water cool in the bag. Our unit uses one like this regularly. We use potable, so wedon't sterilize the water while in the bags (see below) -- beyond an occasional cap of bleach.When should be cleaned (before & after use) they are cleaned with a strong bleach/water solutionand allowed to dry before storage. (Drinking water or potable water is water of sufficiently highquality that it can be consumed or used without risk of immediate or long term harm.)

Some research on proper usage of the Lyster Bag:FROM GI INTEL DEPARTMENT:

b. When Lyster Bags are used, you will usually find them placed in your company street near thekitchen. Under such circumstances, drink only the water from this bag. Do not mind the peculiartaste as it will not hurt you. Let the water run from the faucet of the bag into your cup. Never dip acup into the Lyster Bag or drink by putting your lips to the faucet.

FROM OLIVE DRAB:Instructions for Use of the Lyster / Lister BagFor small groups, the 36-gallon canvas Lyster bag was used as a container for disinfecting rawwater. The bag was filled to the mark with the cleanest raw water available, using muslin cloth forstraining out solids. This procedure was followed to ensure safe drinking water:Before it is filled with water, clean the Lyster Bag with a solution made with one ampoule ofcalcium hypochlorite dissolved in one gallon of water; Fill the cleaned bag to the mark (4 in. fromthe top); Mix a stock solution of chlorine by adding 3 ampoules of calcium hypochlorite to a one-

half canteen cup of water; When dissolved, pour the solution into the Lyster bag and stir with aclean stick; Wait 30 minutes. Flush the faucets with a small quantity of water; After 10 minutes,flush the faucets again, and check for chlorine residual as described below; If the residual test isunsatisfactory, add one more ampoule and repeat the procedure until the desired residual isachieved. An alternate method consists of adding 1 tablespoonful of liquid household bleach tothe Lyster bag and proceeding to check for chlorine residual. If the fabric material has beenrepaired, patches or temporary plugs must be secure. The check-valve adapter must beundamaged and open easily. Dust caps must be attached to couplers when not in use.The USMC Small Wars Manual, Chapter VI (1940), states:

Sufficient ampoules should be carried for chlorination of water for the duration of the patrol.The Lyster bag, if carried, should be carefully inspected for leaks, particularly at the taps, andshould be cleaned and dried. Four to six yards of muslin for straining trash from the water shouldbe provided. The bag should be rolled and stowed so that it will not chafe in carrying.

A lister bag in Use in North Africa, notice the shade/Flyover it.

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Testing the Lyster / Lister Bag Water

Chlorination test kits were used, consisting of color comparison tubes and chlorine test tablets.Instructions accompanying the particular kit gave a detailed procedure, but when a chlorine testkit was not available, the water was deemed acceptable if it had a slight chlorine taste.

After 30 minutes of calcium hypochlorite treatment, a test was given to a cupful of water fromthe Lyster Bag by adding 10 drops of a solution containing 10 per cent potassium iodide and 1per cent soluble starch (supplied in the test kit). The appearance of a blue color was theindication that sufficient chlorine had been added to the water. If no color appeared, the water ashighly polluted and was immediately reported to the medical officer having water supplies underhis supervision.

How to use (FROM WWW.TPUB.COM):2) The surgeon has the responsibility for recommending total chlorine residuals that will behigh enough to assure a free available chlorine residual sufficient to render water safe. For thispurpose, he uses reconnaissance reports and all other data available on water sources in or nearthe area in which the use of emergency water treatment procedures is anticipated.c. Lyster Bag Chlorination Procedure.The Lyster bag (figure 6-2) is the familiar 36-gallon canvas container issued on the basis of onebag per 100 men. The porous canvas permits cooling of the water by evaporation. Small unitsnormally purify water in the Lyster bag. When using the Lyster bag for disinfection of raw water,proceed as follows:(1) Clean the bag and hang it by the supporting ropes. Fill the bag to the36-gallon mark, which is4 inches from the top. Use clear, settled water, if possible. The supports must be sturdy, since thebag filled with water weighs almost 300 pounds.(2) Empty the contents of at least three calcium hypochlorite ampules(figure 6-3) into a canteencup; add a small amount of water from the Lyster bag and stir with a small stick until a thickmixture results; then fill the cup one-half full of water and stir again.(3) Empty the prepared solution slowly into the Lyster bag, stirring the water with a clean stick.Cover the bag and clean the faucets by flushing a small quantity of the water through each ofthem.(4) After the calcium hypochlorite solution has been in contact with the water for 10 minutes, flushthe faucets and collect a sample of water from one of the faucets in the 5 ppm plastic tube fortesting (see paragraph (5) below). Place one orthotolidine tablet in the plastic tube and crush itwith the bottom of the orthotolidine bottle. Place the cap on the tube and shake until theorthotolidine tablet is thoroughly dissolved in the water. Make the comparison.(5) If the sample is lighter in shade than the yellow band, the chlorine residual is less than 5 ppm.Therefore, add sufficient additional ampoules of calcium hypochlorite, one at a time at 10-minuteintervals, to the Lyster bag. After each addition, retest after an additional 10 minutes. When the

color of the water in the sample is the same shade or darker than the yellow band on the five ppmplastic tube, the chlorine residual is equal to or greater than five ppm. Wait an additional 20minutes, since total contact time of 30 minutes is required. Flush the faucets and check theresidual again before drinking the water. If the chlorine residual is less than five ppm, repeat.Find More Information on the Web

There are many fine websites that have additional information on this topic, too many tolist here and too many to keep up withas they come and go.Use this Google websearch form to get anup to date report ofwhat's out there.For good results, try

entering this: bag listeror lyster. Then click the

Search button.

Later War Version(M1943 Pattern?)

Early War Version.Early war version

hanging in aPlatoon/Company area:

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WW I I HRS A u then t i c i t y Regu lat i ons

GENERALSafety and Authenticity rules are controlled and enforced by members appointed by the Vice-President/Chairperson to the Safety and Authenticity Committees. These rules may be changed at any

time by a majority vote of that committee. One (1) general safety/authenticity inspection of both Alliedand Axis participants WILL BE CONDUCTED AT THE SAME DESIGNATED TIME AND LOCATION at any WWIIH.R.S., Inc. sponsored event, so that all participants can observe that it was conducted.

The safety/authenticity inspection formation will be conducted as follows. Units will form up, byunit and nationality, in an area designated by the event organizers. No INDIVIDUAL PARTICIPANTS ORUNITS will retire to the field before the general inspection takes place.

Exception to above: Event planning staff members who need to enter the field, when anunforeseen incident, accident or emergency requires their immediate attention that would interfere withthe smooth running of the event, if not attended to. It will still be the responsibility of said members to beinspected prior to entering the field as a participant or participants.

Violators of safety and/or authenticity rules can be brought before the Board of Directors fordisposition. It is the responsibility of each individual member registered at an event to be inspected by anappointed Safety/Authenticity officer at the mandatory event inspection. Willful avoidance of theinspections shall be grounds for removal of the offender from the event. Repeated offenses shall begrounds for removal from the WWII H.R.S., Inc.

AUTHENTI CI TY1. We are here to portray the normal look of the WWII soldier, not the exception.2. Any HRS unit that hosts an event has the authority to determine rank structure and who mayparticipate as Officers and NCOs in the public battles, skirmishes, skits and tacticals for that event. Thehost unit has the option to create temporary Officer/NCO positions for the purpose of administering thehosted event, and does not change the chartered Officer/NCO structure for the units involved. This ruledoes not supersede rank structure of a chartered HRS unit for the purpose of a "Living History" staticdisplay. Non-HRS units/individuals that are attending as guests to HRS events are also subject to the hostunit(s) review to ensure that re-enactment unit rank structure for displays will be fitting to the type ofdisplay the unit has set up at the event.3. Medals or decorations that were not created pre-June 1945 may not be worn. Appropriate awards,badges, campaign, and citation ribbons may be worn if they reflect the credits of the unit being portrayed.US or Allied medals of valor may not be worn by anyone who did not earn them in actual military service,to include medals that may be awarded for both valor and service.4. Hair must be cut (trimmed) in a 1940's style. It must be tapered and trimmed to the nape of the neck

and around the ears so as not to touch the ears or collar. Blocked haircuts are not permitted. Sideburnscan be no longer than mid-ear. Mustaches must be trimmed to 1940's military style (British troopsexempt). All mustaches must be trimmed above the upper lip line. It cannot extend past the edge of themouth more that 1/4 inched and cannot drop down around the corners of the mouth. SS troops may nothave any facial hair. A beard shall be defined as any facial hair, other than approved mustaches, which isno longer than a two (2) day growth (about 1/8 inches) and are not permitted except under the Five (5)circumstances listed below:a. Persons doing any partisan impressions at events.b. Beards no longer than two (2) centimeters are allowed in existing chartered Gebirgsjger unitsc. French Foreign Legion and French North African units may wear beards.d. Royal Navy units may wear beards.e. German U-boat crewsAll members of a military unit must have beards in order for 1 person to wear a beard.5. Modern sunglasses are not allowed.6. Weapons must be of pre-June 1945 military type used by the unit portrayed or an acceptable replica.NO airsoft, air (BB) or CO2 guns are allowed. The authenticity committee may ban the use of pre-1945weapons in cases where their use is not authentic. Weapons manufactures after 1945 may be used if theyduplicate a WWII weapon.7. Uniforms, equipment, insignia, and emblems must be of a type, style, and material in use by the unitportrayed during WWII.8. WWII Italian camouflage may be used by Italian and German units (but must be sewn on the properpattern for German units). Austrian and West German camouflage are NOT allowed.9. To serve as a member of the Authenticity Committee a person must be a member of the WWII H.R.S.,Inc. for at least two (2) years, and send a letter to the chairman of the Authenticity Committee. Acommittee member serves until either he resigns or is dismissed. Members of the Authenticity Committeeshould be selected, whenever possible, from units showing the highest levels of authenticity.10. A member of the Authenticity Committee must be willing and able to attend events and make on-the-spot judgments about authenticity matters.11. Members of the Authenticity Committee may be removed from office for the failure to enforce theWWII H.R.S., Inc. authenticity rules or failure to renew their WWII H.R.S., Inc. membership on time. Anymembers of the WWII H.R.S., Inc. may challenge a committeeman's position on the committee. The

ANNOUNCEMENT: In August 2009 Safety and Authenticity regulations were updated.

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challenge must be voted on by the other members of the Authenticity Committee. Removal is by amajority vote.12. Appeals on matters of authenticity may be made by the submission to the chairman of the authenticitycommittee in writing with six (6) photographs; three (3) of the items used by the re-enactor and three (3)photographs taken during the WWII period. These pictures must be proven original and/or copies from apublished source and must show the disputed item in use by troops of the same unit, type, and rank asthe re-enactor. A majority vote by the members of the authenticity committee shall decide the issue.13. The Authenticity Committee shall have the power to recommend to the Board of Directors the removalfrom the WWII H.R.S., Inc. of any person or unit that is flagrant or repeated violator of authenticity rules.The Board of Directors must then pass judgment on the recommendation.14. All members, units, or chapters of the WWII H.R.S., Inc. sponsoring a WWII H.R.S., Inc. event mustmaintain minimum authenticity standards.

15. In the enforcement of the authenticity rules, the committee will make allowances for the extreme coldand/or wet conditions, where the safety and health of the members may be threatened.16. Any and all members and/or dealers of the WWII H.R.S., Inc. who manufacture reproduction uniformsand equipment for sale to other WWII H.R.S., Inc. members for the use at WWII H.R.S., Inc. events mustprovide a money-back guarantee (upon buyer's request) that the item (s) will pass authenticityinspection. Persons not honoring this guarantee, either written or otherwise, are subject to disciplinaryaction by the Board of Directors and/or removal from the event or from the WWII H.R.S., Inc.17. The Authenticity Committee may rule that certain modern items, which have been allowed for use dueto lack of available reproductions, may be banned when authentic reproductions or that item itselfbecomes widely available at reasonable prices.18. All vehicles will be judged on a case-by-case basis and must be manufactured before 1946 or must

represent a type used by Allied or Axis powers during the 1939-1945 period. All post 1945 vehicles mustbe altered to duplicate a pre-1945 vehicle and be properly painted. Photographs of all alteredmanufactured vehicles must be submitted to the Authenticity Committee along with authentic photos orphotocopies of original photos of the same type vehicle. If judgment is in favor of the rebuilt vehicle, apermit will be issued by the chairman of the Authenticity Committee.

19. Due to the availability of good quality affordable reproduction uniforms, Swedish tunics are notacceptable, converted or otherwise, for use by German WWII units.20. Partisans are NOT allowed at WWII H.R.S., Inc. events unless an announcement is published in THEPOINT, or THE EDGE,or the websiteinviting them.a. Partisans must use the type of clothing and equipment normally worn in that country portrayed.b. Equipment to be used by partisans will be limited to German, Russian, Italian, French and British whereappropriate.c. Partisan re-enactors must be able to provide documentation of their appearance and equipment for thatparticular country portrayed, if a question of authenticity arises. In that situation, Authenticity rule #12will apply.21. Members under 16 years old shall not wear a military uniform, but may wear either civilian periodclothing or a youth organization uniform without armband.

WW I I HRS Sa fe ty Regu la t ions

GENERALSafety and Authenticity rules are controlled and enforced by members appointed by the Vice-President/Chairperson to the Safety and Authenticity Committees. These rules may be changed at anytime by a majority vote of that committee. One (1) general safety/authenticity inspection of both Alliedand Axis participants WILL BE CONDUCTED AT THE SAME DESIGNATED TIME AND LOCATION at any WWIIH.R.S., Inc. sponsored event, so that all participants can observe that it was conducted.No INDIVIDUAL PARTICIPANTS OR UNITS will retire to the field before the general inspection takes place.Exception to above:Event planning staff members who need to enter field, when an unforeseen incident, accident oremergency requires their immediate attention that would interfere with the smooth running of the event,if not attended to. It will still be the responsibility of said members to be inspected prior to entering thefield as a participant or participants.Violators of safety and/or authenticity rules can be brought before the Board of Directors for disposition. Itis the responsibility of each individual member registered at an event to be inspected by an appointedSafety/Authenticity officer at the mandatory event inspection. Willful avoidance of the inspections shall begrounds for removal of the offender from the event. Repeated offenses shall be grounds for removal from

the WWII H.R.S., Inc.

SAFETY1. Any person, unit or chapter sponsoring any event where WWII H.R.S., Inc. people are participatingand/or the WWII H.R.S., Inc. name is used, MUST have a safety officer on site to oversee all aspects ofsafety. This safety officer must be registered with the chairperson of the Safety Committee at least thirtydays prior to the event. Safety Officers may be registered on a permanent basis each year.2. All participants at all events where the WWII H.R.S., Inc. name is used MUST be members of the WWIIH.R.S., Inc. or a recognized re-enactment group. All persons belonging to units forming MUST be attachedto a chartered unit willing to accept responsibility for their safe conduct.3. Any person under the age of 16 may NOT carry any type of weapon or participate in public or tacticalbattles in any capacity.4. Unit CO's must be at least twenty-one (21) years old, and agree to be responsible for the education ofall unit members about the WWII H.R.S., Inc.'s safety rules and the safe conduct of his unit members.Free-lancing or participating without unit affiliation is grounds for dismissal from an event.

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5. Absolutely no ignitable devices are to be thrown or fired at any vehicle. Nothing (NO MATTER WHAT ITIS) will be thrown or fired at the driver, nothing is to be thrown at or near a horse. Weapons are not to befired at wildlife.6. All action in or around buildings or bunkers must be under the control of at least two (2) safety officerswho have the authority to halt the event if they spot any dangerous circumstances. Appointments may bemade on site.7. Alcoholic beverages and/or illegal drugs may not be consumed at any event, in violation of civil laws.8. No weapon is to be fired directly at anyone closer that fifty (50) feet or whenever anyone is close to themuzzle of a rifle. This applies to the persons who are next to you, as well as in front of the muzzle. Watchout for the other persons hearing.9. All pyrotechnics must be approved by the on site safety officer.10. No projectile may be fired at less than a forty-five (45) degree angle from the horizontal. Signal flares

must be fired at (90) degree angle from horizontal.11. No live ammo is to be brought to any WWII H.R.S., Inc. events EVER!12. No one may fix any bayonet to any rifle, except for controlled (posed, staged) photographs. Violationsof rules 10 and 11 are grounds for dismissal from the WWII H.R.S., Inc.13. Wood tipped blanks may only be used in semi-automatic and automatic weapons equipped with blankadapters, NEVER IN A BOLT ACTION RIFLE.14. Homemade weapons must have a safety check on site at each event, whenever and wherever they areused. There is no such thing as a blanket permit or letter of registration for homemade replicas. Shot gunsmay not be loaded or fired whatsoever.15. The use of metal body parachute flares, military artillery, and grenade simulators are not allowed,except for staged spectator evens under the supervision of a WWII H.R.S., Inc. approved safety officer, tobe used in controlled areas ONLY.16. Star crimped blanks may be used in a non-blank adapted bolt action rifles. The rifle must be fired at aforty-five (45) degree angle and not less than fifty (50) feet at anyone. The bore must be clean of anydebris prior to the safety/authenticity inspection. Blank adapting bolt-action rifles are optional at the time.17. Helmets must be worn by all participants during public battles. Except for the following:

Gebirgsjagers, Army Commandos, Royal Marines, Russian troops, Other individual soldiers whoseimpression requires a softcap to operate equipment or vehicles authentically or safety. These impressionsmust wear their impression correct headgear.18. All glasses must have safety or shatter-resistant lenses.19. All shoulder weapons must be on safe when a person is loading or unloading from a vehicle and in thefield, except when actively engaging a target.20. Refusal to follow the instructions of a safety official are grounds for dismissal from the WWII H.R.S.,Inc. Safety official have the authority to remove any safety offender from any event and file for theoffender's dismissal from the WWII H.R.S., Inc. by mailing or emailing his complaint to the chairman ofthe safety committee within thirty (30) days of the event.21. If a member of the safety committee is at any event he becomes the senior safety officer for thatevent. If two (2) or more safety committeeman are at an event, the commission date establishesseniority. The senior safety officer or the chairman of the safety committee has the final say in all on-the-spot safety decisions.22. All safety rules must be printed in newsletter at least once a year.23. Members 16-17 may participate in public or tactical battles but must sign any waivers and must be

accompanied by a parent/legal guardian or their designee.24. All firearm laws and regulations that apply to a particular location whether federal, state, or local mustbe followed at a WWII HRS event. It is the responsibility of the event sponsor to make known theparticular firearms laws and regulations pertaining to that location for those attending the event.

VEHI CLE SAFETY1. All motor vehicles must be driven by a licensed driver, regardless of off or on road use. The driver mustbe knowledgeable of the type of vehicle he is driving. PROPER LIABILITY INSURANCE IS MANDATORY. Anyvehicle driven off road MUST HAVE A GROUND GUIDE, to avoid personnel hiding in foliage.2. Service brakes shall function on all wheeled vehicles.3. Emergency brakes (parking brakes) should be functional, if a vehicle was originally equipped with suchbrakes.4. Tires shall have a minimum tread depth of 2/32 inches.5. Tracks shall be properly adjusted.6. Steering system shall be functional.

7. Lighting shall be operational if used for night operation.8. An onboard fire extinguisher is required

I NSURANCE COVERAGEFor safety, all WWII H.R.S., Inc. sponsored tactical and/or public events must be insured. An EventRequest Form may be attained from the Secretary, from the website, or posted in THE EDGE. This signedform must be submitted by the requestor to the Secretary at least 30 days prior to the event. Proof ofinsurance, or if requested by the event host a certificate of insurance, will then be issued however a feemay be imposed for a certificate of insurance. If this procedure is not followed and/or the requester'scurrent membership dues are not paid in full, the event will not be advertised in any official HRSpublication nor will proof of insurance be provided or a certificate of insurance be issued to the requestor.

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WWII HRS Board Meeting Minutes 16 April 2009

Attending: Jonathan Stevens, Craig Dvorak, Don Pitchers, Mick Moore, Scott Atchison, Mike Kowalski, David Jameson,Tim Scherer, John Newton, and Bill Sheets

The meeting was called to order at 7:05 pm and a roll call was taken.The meeting minutes for March were reviewed. A motion was made to accept the minutes and passed.

Old BusinessThe Special Election for the Secretary and Treasurer position had one candidate for Secretary, Craig Dvorak. Theballot will be in the next Edge. Stephanie Batroni had indicated some interest in running for the position however she haddecided to not run.Regional Committee Proposal: Scott Atchison and unit were to write an article for the Edge. So far there had been noofficial nominations for the National Battle.Audit Proposal was tabledPAHA Allegations: Our attorney was responding to the PAHABatroni Complaint: The deadline for a response was the end of the month.Proposal for an HRS Scholarship was to be put into the Edge for discussion. Some requirements were membership,age, an essay, and accomplishments in reenacting. If accepted by the membership, it should be setup by June.Lowell Meal and Support for Future Events: A dollar limitation and documentation of members at the event would beneeded. The general idea would be presented to the membership. A committee should be created to determine whichevents would get funding.Unit Charters: Two new charters have been submitted, an I&R Platoon and a Naval aviators unit.

New BusinessTreasurer Report: Acting Treasurer David Jameson reported $9235.34 in checking, $16,213.24 in savings, andapproximately $1 in interest. The bank fees went from $12 to $35. This does not reflect the pending Edge bills. 528memberships were processed.Secretary Report: Acting Secretary Jonathan Stevens reported some membership cards to get out and some under 18forms were outstanding.Age Requirement: The age requirements are ambiguous in the by-laws and need to be better explained. David Jamesonwill check with the attorney before a final interpretation. The discussion was tabled.Allied Report: Bill Sheets reported a new unit, 165

thSPC, was interested in chartering. Also the 3

rdMarine Div was no

longer a unit.S&A Committee: The committee has been formed and the members listed on the website.Defunct Units: 134th Inf. Rgt., 35th Inf. Div. needed to be checked for membership in the last two years.Recognition of Other Organizations: Illiana Historical Society has sent proof of insurance.Axis Report: Scott Atchison reported a unit interested in chartering the 7

th Panzer Div. Scott also mentioned membersneed to be careful on forums to not insult others.By-law Proposals: Two bylaw proposals are waiting regarding nepotism and inviting non-HRS units to events. These

would be sent to the board for reading.

Open Comment: No comments.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:19 pm

WWII HRS Board Meeting Minutes May 21, 2009

In attendance were David Jameson, Elliott James, Gary Adkins, Jonathan Stevens, Craig Dvorak, Scott Atchison, MikeBoden, Alan Miltich, Tim Scherer, Keith Bonney, Bill Riesa, Jeff Elinger, and Bill Sheets.

The meeting to order at 7:07 pm. A roll call was made.

Old Business:S&A Committee: David Jameson commended the work of the committee.April Minutes were read. A motion was made to accept the minutes. A roll call vote was made and was passed

unanimously.Special Election: Craig Dvorak was on the ballot for Secretary. June 15 was the deadline for votes. The Regional Battleproposal was on the ballot.PAHA: There was an exchange with the attorneys. Hopefully the matter would be resolved by the end of the month.Report on Defunct Units: 134th Inf Div, 35th Inf Div. had no reported members for two years and no C.O. membership.Recognition of Other WWII Reenacting Orgs.: No new inforation. The Das Reich unit from Ohio had decided to formtheir own club.Proposals in Edge: bylaw proposal for the National Battle and the HRS scholarship.New Business:Unit Charters:7/FRJ6 had submitted all the requirements for a charter. The S&A Committee had approved the charter.

A motion was made to vote on the charter and seconded. The vote to approve the charter was unanimous.COMNAVAIRPAC: Bill Reisa explained the concept of the unit was to show naval aviation in WWII. The S&A Committeeapproved the unit charter. A motion was made to accept this unit and was seconded. The vote was unanimous and theunit charter was accepted.7

thPanzer Division, 7

thPanzergrenadier Rgt.: More information was needed on this charter for the S&A Committee.

The discussion was tabled. 45th Inf Div, 180th Rgt, I&R platoon: The unit CO for the proposed unit explained the charterfor the unit was not for tacticals but was more for living history which is why they included an S2 Major. Some comment18


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ensued but more information and discussion was needed in the S&A Committee. The charter was very well done. Thediscussion was tabled.Treasurer Report: Checking account had $8,128.05 and the savings account had $16,215.24. $1.33 in interest wasaccumulated. A service charge of $18 was received and $1088.34 was paid to Rochelle printing for the Edge.Secretary Report: 685 members.Commonwealth Report: None.Allied Report: A Merchant Marine charter was possibly forming.Axis Report: Scott Attchison had Jeff Elinger from the proposed unit 7th Panzer explain his unit. Jeff was to expand theunit charter section on uniforms, Equipment, and rank structure for the unit.S&A Committee: 134

th Inf Rgt., 34th Inf Div. had little or no contact. A motion to disband the unit was made andseconded. The vote was to disband the unit. Elliot James requested to be added to the S&A Committee.

A motion to adjourn was made and 2nded. The vote was unanimous.

At 8:13 pm the meeting was adjourned.

WWII HRS Board Meeting Minutes June 18, 2009

In attendance were Jonathan Stevens, Craig Dvorak, Scott Atchison, Rob Coffman, Alan Miltich, Tim Scherer, RobLienweber, Chris Kissenger, Keith Bonney, and Bill Sheets.

The Vice President called the meeting to order at 7:29 pm since the President was not in attendance after a quorum wasreached. A roll call was made.

Unit Charters: 7th

Panzer Div, 7th

Panzergrenadier Rgt. charter application was discussed. The unit was deemed rankheavy. The unit CO, Ken Kerwell, was informed and was going to revise their rank structure. The S&A vote for the unitwas 4 votes for the unit and 5 against the charter but with the revisions the charter would be revoted on. Some discussionregarding the clause like impressions ensued regarding the unit. The discussion was tabled.I&R Platoon, 180

thrgt, 45

thInfantry Div: The revised rank structure of the unit was reviewed by the S&A Committee. A

vote was taken in the S&A Committee with 6 votes for and 5 votes no. In the charter document the ranks were reduced.

For living history events the rank of Major was retained to demonstrate the operation of the I&R platoon. For tacticalevents no officers would be included in the unit. A motion was made for the board to vote on the charter and seconded.A roll call was taken and three votes were made to accept the charter.Recognition of the Election of the Secretary: In the recent election Craig Dvorak was elected Secretary. The officialresults would be released in the next Edge.Open Comment:Rob Lienweber asked about the insurance for the Lena, WI event. The proof of insurance would be sent to him.Rob Coffman asked about event coordinators defining rank for units and splitting up units at events.

At 8:13 pm the meeting was adjourned.

WWII HRS Board Meeting Minutes July 16, 2009

The meeting was called to order at 7:04pm. A roll call was taken: David Jameson, Jonathan Stevens, Craig Dvorak,Chuck Roberts, Lydia Roberts, Jeff Elinger, Scott Bacon, Bill Sheets.

Old Business:

June Meeting minutes were read. A motion was made to accept the minutes and seconded. A roll call vote was takenwith four yes votes. The minutes were accepted.PAHA Allegations: The attorneys were communicating.Report on Defunct Units: Two units were possibly defunct. More information will be available the next meeting.ByLaw Proposal: Two proposals exist, the Loge proposal and Scherer proposal. David Jameson suggested sendingthem and other future proposals through the S&A Committee to check for overlaps with current bylaws.Outstanding Bills: For Edge printing $376.51 and $1183.75. Both were mailed to Rochelle Printing.New Business:Edge Content: Should non-members be given space n the Edge? David Jameson stated that we need to stick to ourorganization and our events. Some information on non-HRS events could be included as a service to the members.Other comments were that some decision should be left to the discretion of the editor but that the editor should check withthe board if there is a question. Scott Bacon added more After Action Reports were needed. The discussion was tabledto get more input from other board members.Unit Charters: Two Charters arebeing considered. The 501st PIR, 101st Abn charter was incomplete. More informationfrom this unit is needed for the S&A Committee. 7th Panzer, 7th Panzergrenadier Rgt. Charter is complete after a finalrevision. The S&A Committee voted with 9 for chartering and 3 against chartering. The board members had reviewed thedocument. A motion for a vote was called and seconded. A roll call vote was taken with a 4 votes for chartering. The 7th

Panzer, 7th Panzergrenadier regiment was accepted into the HRS. After passing a one year probation period a charterwill be issued.Treasurer Report: No report was available.Secretary Report: The secretary files were being transferred to Craig Dvorak.Commonwealth Report: No report was available.Allied Representative Report: Bill Sheets reports a merchant marine unit was forming.Axis Representative Report: No report was available.S&A Committee Report: The committee had requested more information on the age limit for participation according tothe insurance. David Jameson reported that the insurance carrier had said that for those members under age 18 theinsurance would not allow them to use weapons in battles. The insurance carrier was checking on those under age 18participating in static displays and living history.Open Comment: Chuck Roberts asked about the certificate of insurance for his event in June that was applied for inJanuary. The reply was that his event was covered. Chuck Roberts had further questions regarding a minor injury to avisitor to his museum event. The reply was that most likely this would have to go under the Roberts Armory policy sincethe HRS policy does not insure buildings. Further discussion ensued.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:10 pm.19


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Gauge blanks. A preliminary view.By Robb Walters, 21 Panzer and Atlantic Wall Blanks

or the purpose of this report I took a look at the 3 most common

commercially available factory smokeless (non-black powder) blanks.

This is one of the most common blanks available.F The photo to the right is a Winchesterfactory photo and it is accurate. The case

is marked as a blank in 3 ways that would be

noticeable to different shooting groups.

First, as a Field Trial load. Manyhunters will recognize that nomenclature.

Second as a Popper load, an older name for

shotgun blanks. Finally, they are clearly

marked BLANK which should be clear to most

reenactors and Safety officers within the

reenacting hobby.

When the round is sectioned you will notice that it is

filled pretty tightly with ground up corn cob. As you can see

in the picture, the cob is small. Corn cob is very light and

especially being ground up this small, will have a very

limited range from the barrel before burning up or simply

falling to the ground. The corn cob filler should be safe

within the standard stand off range of other blanks.Behind the corn cob is a wad. Most shotgun wads are

thick paper or cardboard. This was is thin cork.

Cork being crumbly

should break up pretty quickly

especially since it sits right on top of

the powder charge. The powder is an odd

elongated flake and is about 14 grains in

weight, roughly 35 to 40% of the charge

of a live shotgun shell of the same size.

Not an excessive charge for the bore size

though still powerful enough to be lethal

at close range.

There did appear to be a plastic wad ofsome sort at the base of the shell. (White

insert in shell base in picture above.)

Until I test the round in live fire I can not be certain in this will

leave the shell. It does not appear to be designed to but it could be

dangerous if it did.

BeforeGood:

firing my thoughts are:

- Corn cob filler is inert

- Corn cob filler should dissipate or burn up in the barrel or at

close range.

- Cork wad is thin and should break up very quickly

- Powder charge is in line with most rifle blanks- Possible plastic wad that could be a projectile danger. (Note, I

do not think the plastic wad will come out at this point but want

to note this before field testing)

- Shell hull is clearly marked in 3 ways that it is a blank for

easy identification.

- Plastic wad in case my prevent shell from being reloaded intolive shells increasing safety and identification. I will get an

expert opinion on this.Bad:

- Possibility of wad becoming projectile.

- Color is somewhat similar to standard Winchester shot shell hulls

20


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The 2nd Blank is the Federal Game Shok Field

Trial load. This is another common blank though it

has been discontinued for the rest of 2009 and 2010

though it may be brought back in 2011.

The photo is my own as this round has been

around for a while with a few minor differences.

This load has been popular in the past for animal

training.

The shell is marked as a Field Trial load as

seen above.Upon cutting into the hull you immediately see

that the filler is a large rounded plastic. At

first glance the shell appears to be filled with

Nerds candy.

The plastic is obviously designed to be inert

and to loose energy fast but I found that it did

not dissolve under heat.

After about 30 seconds under flame, the

plastic was almost unaffected with the exception

of the pellets that were closest to the flame,

which slightly melted together. 2 weeks

later I noticed the pellets still in my

iveway un-changed in any way.dr

Under the plastic filler there is a thick cardboard wad.

this point I stopped with this load. I was not comfortable

n

thoughts are:Good:

- The shell is marked as a Field trail load.

- The Powder c r

with similar blBad:

- Plastic fillerbreak up at a range we would consider safe.

- as many other Federal Brand live

rent, they are not quickly obvious and hull color is the

In poor light, or with a safety inspector that does not know the

difference, it woul

changed slightly over the

s were a clear hull marked

er

ble

Winchester load. This would fly less distance and disperse faster.

While I did not weigh the powder charge, it appeared

to be very similar in volume to the Winchester load. At

the reenacting hobby. Before firing mywith its use i

ha ge did not appear to be out of line

anks.

that does not look as if it will

- Heavy cardboard wad that could become a projectile.

Color of shell hull is the same

rounds.

- One type of fired live shot shell from Federal. Though markingsare diffe

same.

d be easy to slip in a live round based only on a

single marking. The plastic filler looks to be dangerous for our use.

I will test the rounds against the others mentioned in this review, but

at this point feel that these rounds are unfit for our use.

3rd Blank Fiocchi 2 inch blank

This round has

ars. Early designye

BLANK - to an orange hull with no markings. New

rounds are marked as in the picture I took

recently.

When cut into I found the shell to be filled

with ground up corncob. What was most nota

was that the corncob was more finely ground up than

the

21


22/24

I dumped the corncob out in my hand to look at it to find that the

corncob is the wad as well. There is no other wadding in the shell

ge

due to

minimu

nk and is not

me

-

s a blank.

Bad:

d be considered an

rounds. I have not yet test fired any of them but

e are well within the

ntial for eye injury. This is one of the

ll safety officers and the ability of

e filler

that could cause a secondary projectile.

The powder charge looked to be in line with

the other rounds. I could not weigh the char

it being mixed with the cob once poured

out of the case. There was nothing else in the

hull that could be a projectile.

I was very impressed with the Fiocchi blank

load. It was a very simple load that uses a

m of components and looks to be designedwell for its intended use.

Before firing my thoughts are:Good:

- Hull is clearly marked as a bla a color that iscommon in shotgun shells. A quick search of several reloading

supply companies did not show a hull available that was the sa

color.

Older shells are the same color or clear (semi-transparent) and

marked a

- BLANK is clearly marked on the shell reducing likelihood of being

mistaken with any other load.

- Small size of the corncob filler should keep the safety rangewithin established fire zones.

- High base shell is not as commonly reloaded.

abnorm

- Before firing I could see little that woul

anger.al d

All of the observations made to this point are based solely on

pulling apart the

will do so soon and make an additional report.

The main concern of a large powder charge is a non-issue in the

rounds shown above. While not light loads, thes

range of many rifle blanks.

I am still concerned about the corncob. While ground fine and

light weight, there is a pote

things I will test for. The wads may or may not be a projectile hazard

but that will be noted in further testing as well.My initial review is that the Federal Field Trial loads are not in

any way suited to our use due to the plastic filler.

The Winchester load has strong potential and the Fiocchi loads appear

to be an even better candidate.

The main concerns would be immediate and unquestioned

identification of the rounds by a

someone to reload the shells without them being noticed. Th

and wadding are secondary concerns.

Once I fire the rounds I will report further on my opinions.

22

Greetings! Dr. A. Farbs here,

Get ready for the best event of the year by

e

a

heading out to Rockfarb before you get tothe city limits of Rockford. All are welcomand highly encouraged to leave their FARBat this event and not bring any of it toRockford. This includes things like yourred spider man underwear, that big bluecooler, and your Mickey Mouse pillow!Leave all this junk at RockFarb! Send inew questions! See you next month!


23/24

Rockford Schedule of Events

Thursday Sept. 24

12:00pm Gates open for setup.

Friday Sept. 25

9:00am Camp setup stops for school tours.8am- MP/FG briefing at picnic tables next to fir2:15pm Camp setup continues.

me.

c tables next to Fire station.nticity starts, S&A will be held at West end of village here

e public parks. e CO meeting-All unit CO's and/or NCO's required to attend ifin battles at main battlefield.

amp area.f

e to participate in battles at main battlefield.

ime, reenactorso get in free,

ay $6 to get in.ll be strictly enforced!

be held at West end of village where

0:30am Field Battle CO meeting-All unit CO's and/or NCO's required to attend ifin battles at main battlefield.

onal vehicles must be out of Historic Living Camp area.

s/skits start will run throughout the day.

en by Military Police!

e station.

11:00pm Quiet TiSaturday Sept 26

8am MP and FG briefing at picni9am Safety and Authe

th10:30am Field Battlour unit would like to participatey

10:45am All personal vehicles must be out of Historic Living C10:30am Field Battle CO meeting-All unit CO's and/or NCO's required to attend iyour unit would lik11am Museum opens to the public.11:30am Viginettes/skits start and will run throughout the day.1:30pm Field Battle starts.3:30pm Field Battle starts.5:00pm Museum closes to the public.

ing, food served at this t7:00pm USO Dance at Museum Buildmust be in uniform, spouses/partner must be in period clothing totherwise they will have to p11:00am Quiet Time, this wiSunday Sept 27

9am Safety and Authenticity starts, S&A willthe public parks.1your unit would like to participate0:45am All pers1

11am Museum opens to the public.11:30am Viginette2:30pm Field battle starts.4pm Museum closes to the public.4pm Personal vehicles allowed on camp area IF all public are out of LivingHistory camp area, all clear will be giv7pm Park closes to everyone.

23


24/24

Email your submissions for the next Edge to: [email protected].

nathan Stevens349 Cottonwood Dr.

IL 60187

ww worldwartwohrs org

Jo0N

Wheaton,

w

th,nd Panzer

Photo credit:

Mike Be

2