1st SS Aufklarung
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We are excited that you are showing an interest in World War 2 Reenacting. 1. SS Aufklärung is always looking for new recruits and fellow history lovers. The hobby is a great opportunity to combine the study of WW2 history with the chance to get away from your normal surrounding and enjoy the natural world. You will also enjoy a newfound sense of camaraderie through our experiences in the field. Join us if you share our passion for history and motivation for authenticity!

We are largely a Virginia based reenacting group, but we have members in bordering states as well. We attend events year-round (many invite-only), stretching from Pennsylvania down to South Carolina. If you are even just considering entering the hobby, join us for an event. We can loan you what you need to get started. We know will be you hooked.

For more information on joining the unit or general re-enacting questions, e-mail us at ahrweiler@hotmail.com.


Unit Regulations and Authenticity Standards

Appearance:

Contacts or period eyeglasses must be obtained by the recruits as soon as possible. No jewelry other than wedding bands or period style rings may be worn. If you wish to wear a watch, you must obtain a period looking pocket watch or wrist watch.

Hair must be above the collar and cannot touch the ears. No sideburns, moustaches, or beards. For more information visit these external guides: Haircuts and Appearance Guide #1 and Guide #2

Age Requirement:

Unit members must be at least 18 years old for combat re-enacting. If you are under 18 years old, there are non-combat roles that you may re-enact, such as radio operators or medics.

Language:

If you feel strongly about your impression, learning German is the best way to add depth to it. Speaking in German adds to the mood of any field event for both sides. Check out 11th Panzer's German for Reenactors.

Physical Fitness:

Reenacting German soldiers in the field is physically demanding. You will be expected to fully participate in any tacticals that you attend. This includes being able to sprint 20-30 feet, hike difficult terrain, and climb in and out of vehicles quickly without collapsing or passing out. For older individuals looking to join, there are auxiliary roles available with lesser physical demands (especially at living history events).

Discipline:

We seek to portray an elite, historical military organization, as accurately as possible. It is up to each unit member to maintain a high level of authenticity and motivation to contribute to this goal. Members are expected to continually seek new ways to refine their impression and follow orders given by superiors in the field. This may include unpleasant tasks such as filling water canisters, gathering firewood, or digging foxholes (Wolfgrabhügel). We expect each member to work together as part of a cohesive team.

Unit issues will be dealt with as a group. Furthermore, while there are no unit dues, members are expected to contribute to unit purchases that we all use.

Documents:

Unit members are expected to carry period identification on that at all times during events. At a minimum this includes Erkennungsmarken (dog tags) and Soldbücher (paybooks). Custom stamped Erkennungsmarken can be ordered from a recommended third party. For all your document needs we suggest Pockettrash.com.

Rank and Decorations:

Promotions within this unit are based on merit and participation. You will advance in rank and responsibility according to your attendance of events, knowledge of Waffen SS aspects, willingness to contribute time and resources to the unit and your ability to competently lead and instruct men. Rank vacancy is another factor. A unit of NCOs would be irrational.

Awards are not only issued for participation and unit contribution, but also for merit in combat as determined by the unit Oberscharführer or overall German commander of an event.

Uniforms and Field Equipment:

Make no mistake this hobby is expensive, but you are certainly not expected to purchase your entire kit at once. Loaner equipment is available; however you will be expected to make continued progress in purchasing the details of your impression. A note of advice: try not to go the cheap route. You will just find yourself replacing those items at a later point. Save yourself time and money by buying accurate uniforms and field gear the first time. We can guide you in your purchases and loan you a lot of what you will need. When you start out, first ask for advice and concentrate on items that are hard to share because of sizing (uniforms, boots, etc.).

Field Gear Information and Guidelines: Here are some basic Vendor recommendations:
  • At the Front - Great for your general needs and tips on insignia placement.
  • 1944 Militaria - An excellent source for camouflage smocks/uniforms.
  • Landser Outfitters – Good quality products
  • Ebay - Has some great deals on used gear/uniforms, but you usually have to know what you are looking for. * Stay away from the camouflage from Asia*
Further Resources for Refining your Impression: WW2 Re-enacting forums:

© 2010 1st SS Aufklarung WWII Re-enactor Group