With an audience as large and diverse as WWarII.com, it’s pretty much a given that some of you readers are reenactors, like me. And if you’ve entered the world of reenacting even a little bit, you’ll notice the lack of a feminine touch. It’s no secret: there are few places for women in WWII reenacting, and those impressions that we can join run the gamut from “Ok, NEXT!” to “::Crickets Chirping::”. It’ not very often that a role comes along that gives us gals a chance to run with the big boys. Below are a few that have made a great strides for women out here in California.
Yes, it’s an Axis impression, but the Deutsches Rotes Kreuz (DRK), Aachen Stadt I of the California Historical Group (CHG) is not only one of the friendliest units I’ve ever met, it’s also one of the most dedicated. The amount of effort and devotion that was put forth to get this young unit rolling has been astonishing. And they’re also a lovely group of gals, as evidenced by their hot-off-the-presses 2010 Calendar. (Buy one – or two! – today!)
The 203rd Rifle Regiment, 70th Guards unit of the Red Army (CHG) is a little bit of heaven for reenactor ladies. Sure, there are some units that will allow a woman to put their hair up and join the boys’ club, but you always feel the difference. Fighting Russian, I’ve always been treated equally when it comes to mealtimes, marching, digging, or sleeping out in the cold. (Thanks, guys!)
Finally, if you’re a gal looking for a fierce impression in your area, Start One! Get in touch with a woman who’s done it already (or me), and you’ll be surprised at how much advice and encouragement you’ll get.