Aims and objectives
The aim of the group is to give a snapshot representation of the ordinary German soldier during the Second World War. We are in no way politically motivated, nor do we seek to glorify war.
From the outset, the watchword is authenticity. Rather than become an eclectic collection of militaria, we wanted to keep the display within the specific theme of a Hauptverbandplatz in the field. This meant that meticulous research was required in order to ascertain exactly what items were and were not used. This was done by examining original photographs and film, as well as talking to the most important source - the veterans; those who were actually there and could guide us firsthand.
Throughout the year, the group puts on a substantial living history display at public events all over the country – it is here that members of the public can look at our kit and equipment first hand and in many cases handle it. This allows them to feel the weight of a soldiers rifle and combat equipment, to find out what the cloth of the uniforms was like or how cold and damp a bed can be! It also allows children to see items which have disappeared in recent years, such as typewriters and also to see what it was like to work with a paraffin lamp for light (as well as the smell!).
We enjoy interacting with the public and talking to them and we hope they leave us with a little bit more of an insight into the life of a German soldier.