FAQs
Historical reenacting is an exciting and all-encompassing hobby. It can be overwhelming when getting started.
5. Kp. GD is happy to help guide you along your historical reenacting journey by answering some common questions listed below.
How do I find a unit to join?
There are many World War Two reenacting groups across the United States. Each group portrays a specific historical unit and participates in events with its own standards for authenticity, organization, and activities.
5. Kp. GD is a chartered unit of the World War Two Historical Reenactment Society (HRS), a 501(c)(4) nonprofit organization. We encourage you to review the HRS list of German reenacting units as you begin exploring your options.
Your Interests: Start by asking yourself, “What interests me about World War Two reenacting?”
Are you drawn to the uniforms and equipment? Do you enjoy restoring period vehicles? Or are you simply looking for a way to step away from your daily routine? Identifying what you want out of the experience will help you choose a unit that best fits your personal interests.
Your Location: Reenacting often involves travel, sometimes between one and seven hours depending on where you live. Consider how far you’re willing to drive to attend events. If staying closer to home is important to you, you may want to focus on units located near your area.
5. Kp. GD is primarily a Midwestern unit. Most of the events we attend take place in Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana, Michigan, and Iowa.
Talk to Current Reenactors: The best way to learn about a reenacting unit is to attend an event in person. This gives you the opportunity to meet members face-to-face, ask questions, and observe each unit’s authenticity and organization firsthand.
Watching how units conduct themselves in battle scenarios and interact with the public will give you a clear sense of what it would be like to be part of that group.
What is a “Public Event”?
A public event is a reenacting event that is open to spectators. They typically feature a scripted battle, militaria/food vendors, and reenactor campsites that you can visit.
Public events usually take place on weekends. Fridays are used to set up camp, with Saturday and Sunday open for spectators to visit. Reenactor attendance is usually free.
What is a “Tactical Event”?
Tacticals are private reenacting events that are closed to the public. They are typically held on privately-owned land and hosted by a specific reenacting group. Tacticals are immersive weekend-long experiences that focus on a particular battle or campaign of World War Two.
The cost for reenactors to register for tacticals typically ranges from $30-$75 depending on the location & amenities provided. Your registration payment allows event organizers to pay for costs like food, firewood, and portable toilets for participants.
What kind of events does 5. Kp. GD attend?
We normally attend between 10-12 events per year, as voted on by unit membership. Our unit tries to attend an equal number of public and tactical events each year to provide variety.
New events are always coming onto the reenacting scene. 5. Kp. GD likes to add several new events to our calendar each year.
Does 5. Kp. GD host reenacting events?
Yes! Many members of 5. Kp. GD have extensive experience in organizing both public and tactical events in the Midwest. Check out our Events page to learn more about our past & upcoming unit-hosted events.
Does 5. Kp. GD have any vehicles?
Yes! The unit has a large and growing motor pool. Our current vehicle roster includes an Sd.Kfz. 247, Sd.Kfz. 231 8-rad, Sd.Kfz. 231 6-rad, Opel Blitz Allrad truck, and several BMW motorcycles with sidecars.
How do I join 5. Kp. GD?
All prospective applicants must complete certain steps to formally join 5. Kp. GD. These steps include the following:
Step 1: Participate in a Zoom Interview
This is an informal opportunity for us to get to know you, your interests in World War Two reenacting, and what drew you to 5. Kp. GD. You should take this time to ask us questions as well!
Zoom interviews typically include the 5. Kp. GD unit commander along with 1-2 current unit members. Zoom interviews are also used to ensure no individuals with unsavory political or ideological convictions attempt to join our unit.
Step 2: ”Fall in” with Us at an Event
If we feel that the Zoom interview went well, our unit commander will invite you out to an upcoming event to participate with us.
This is an opportunity for you to meet other unit members, ask questions, and participate in a battle. You DO NOT need to purchase a uniform or any equipment at this time. We have loaner gear that we can let you borrow for the weekend.
The goal is to make sure you are comfortable with us and how we conduct ourselves as a unit. If we’re not the right fit for you, no problem! We are happy to refer you to other German reenactment groups.
Step 3: Fill out an application & pay membership dues
All prospective members must fill out the application found here.
Please note that 5. Kp. GD reserves the right to conduct background checks on any prospective applicants.
All unit members pay annual membership dues. These funds are used to cover unit costs, including food, blank ammunition, and vehicle hauling. Dues for your first year are $90 USD. Starting your second year dues prorate to $75 USD/year.
Once we receive your application and payment you are officially a member of 5. Kp. GD! You’ll be added to our email distribution lists, private discussion groups, and other communication methods to stay updated on unit news.
Where do I buy my uniform & equipment?
We have created a handy equipment reference sheet including recommended vendors to buy from for new members. It can be downloaded here.
This equipment list details the order in which your reenacting “kit” should be purchased. It includes recommended vendors to use.
Reenacting can get expensive quickly. Before you purchase anything, consult with unit members to ensure what you select is correct!