Most of the events are held at Camp Roberts, just outside of Paso Robles, California. We also have events at Fort Hunter-Leggitt, near King City; and events at Fort Ord, near Monterey. We have attended events in past years near Sacramento, at Cow Mountain near Ukiah, and at Foresthill, just outside of Auburn.
How old do I need to be to be a reenactor?
Generally 18. Individuals under 18 can (usually) be involved in reenacting if accompanied by a parent or guardian. The rules are typically established by the parent organization, or event organizer. But even if you're not old enough to get into the field as a reenactor, you can always research World War 2 to get more information, and you can collect various items for the future.
What are you guys like? Would I fit in?
Ages range from 18 to 55. Most of us are over 35, married, and with kids and we come from all walks of life. We try to be accurate in our impression, and if folks make an effort, we're pretty accommodating. We usually get out en masse to 2-4 events per year, although a few of us will generally show up at every event. We give each other a good-natured hard time, and everyone ends up with a nickname he generally dislikes. We've been known to drink a few beers in the evening (never in the field), and get rowdy in a clean, 1940's sort of way.
Is reenacting expensive?
It depends. Getting set up is in the same ballpark as getting into snow-skiing or scuba diving. From a GI perspective, the most expensive item is an M-1 Garand ($550 on up). Once you do get set up, there are relatively few additional items or fees. You'll pay annual dues to the RPS ($40.00), and fees for attending a reenactment (usually around $25.00-$30.00). So once you're set up, things are relatively inexpensive, and your gear should last your whole reenacting career (of course, you'll see a beautiful set of Class "A's" in your size that you just can't live without, and things start to go downhill from there).
Do I need to have been in the military?
No.
Do I need to be in good physical condition?
Not exactly, but hear me out. Reenacting, done properly, is strenuous. You will run, crawl, roll, scoot, climb, carry a load on your back, and piss and moan like a real G.I.. The better shape you're in, the more you will enjoy yourself. Couch-potato's, and we have a few, still have a good time. Reenacting can be motivating (how the hell else are going to motivate yourself to fit into a pair of 36 inch waist trousers), and you may find yourself sore and tired at the end of the day. If you have a serious health problem, please check with your physician. Generally, if you can walk around the block, you can get started in reenacting.
How do I sign up with the 3rd Infantry Division / RPS, 15th Infantry Regiment?
Just . We'll get in touch promptly, give you more information, and get you rolling.
How do I know if I'm going to like reenacting?
If you interested in WW2 and have always wondered ‘what it was like’, your going to like it and your going to want to come back again. But for you ‘draftees’ who want to be sure before investing your hard earned script, we have some loaner gear available and we’ll also actively help you secure the weapons, gear and uniforms you’ll need.
Never reenacting before, how am I going to know what to do?
Not to worry! You’ll be assigned to a rifle squad with experienced NCO’s that will train and instruct you what to do and what’s expected of you. Remember, we were all ‘green’ at one time and we’ll ensure that you have a good time. After all, having fun is what its all about!
Are there other impressions available in the 3rd besides that of a rifleman?
Yes! Although the 3rd ID is built around our three rifle and recon squads, there are many duties and details available for the ‘non-ground pounder types’, such as Artillery (mortar), Recon, Military Police, Medic, H.Q. staff, Mess (Kitchen) and soon to be Combat Engineers. As the 3rd ID continues to grow, so will our impressions.
Does size really matter?
Often asked but rarely answered honestly. Yes, when it comes to reenacting, size does matter! The 3rd ID is one of the largest individual infantry units on the west coast and our commitment makes us one of the best run and organized.
Are the weapons, equipment and vehicles real?
Oh yea! Everything is real and authentic but the bullets!
Most of the events are held at Camp Roberts, just outside of Paso Robles, California. We also have events at Fort Hunter-Leggitt, near King City; and events at Fort Ord, near Monterey. We have attended events in past years near Sacramento, at Cow Mountain near Ukiah, and at Foresthill, just outside of Auburn.
