AboutJack Pickup Jr. Expertise I am currently a reenactor of both the American Civil War and World War II. I have been involved with other reenactments from many periods including Roman and the Middle Ages/Renaissance. I am quite well versed in all aspects of military history from the Ancient Period all the way up to World War II, especially regarding Military Engineering up to the period of the American Civil War. I am also a middle school social studies teacher.
Experience I have a degree in History and Education. I have been a teacher at the secondary level teaching all aspects of High School History. I have studied and travelled extensively both within the United States and overseas. I currently do presentations for local schools and teacher certification programs.
Organizations Confederate Corps of Engineers, Unit Commander:
First Confederate Brigade of Illinois, Chief Engineer:
Second Panzer Division, WWII Historical Reenactment Society:
MHEA, Military History Education Association
Publications Reenactor Magazine, Various articles
Education/Credentials Bachelors degree in History and Education from Elmhurst College in Illinois. Work on doctorate cut short by birth of my children (more work, less play!). Soon to be resumed, however.
Question QUESTION: My family and I attend the reenactment
in Stow,Mass over the weekend it was
so good we saw it twice.
It was called Battle for the air field
but what I am getting at is now
I want join a group
and do that same thing it looked so fun
but I don't know of any groups?
Or the start up cost?
Do you need a fire arm permit?
In Mass they are really hard on gun owners.
Thats all I have for now.
ANSWER: I need to know two things first (send me a follow-up question): How old are you, and what do you want to do/what side do you want to be on? I live in Illinois, and our gun laws are ridiculous, so I feel your pain. But it will help me answer the question. I need more information about you.
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: I am 43.
I would like join a German unit.
Do you know of any in or close to Mass?
Thanks.
Answer I checked around (I am in Chicago), and the closest unit any of my people are familiar with is GrossDeutchland. It is one of the largest Panzer divisions in the East, we have served with them before at large events. They may not be really close to you, but it is worth a look. My unit is based out of the Chicagoland area, and there are guys who come all the way from St. Louis to be part of the events. That's a long way, but the couple of times a year that we get the whole group together for a big show, the drive is worth it. The best place to start getting aquainted with costs and what you will need is to find a unit near you. Start by looking online at sites like 1944militaria.com and Anderfront.com. These are two great suppliers, and the alsp have links to units from around the country in their links section. It might give you a better idea of what you are looking for. Good luck, and I will let you know if I find anything else out. Go to the sites, find gear, find a unit close to you. Ask questions, go to a meeting, get to know the people. Make sure they are people you will have a good time with. Some units are stricter than others/more tight knit/etc. See what you like. Don't start buying a kit until you find a unit.
Once again, Good luck!
