This is an M5 Stuart tank at a reenactment held at a park in Bowling Green, Kentucky, in October, 2022. One of the best ways to learn about the real vehicles we model is to attend reenactments. There will be people there wearing historical uniforms from all ages. This particular reenactment was all for World War Two in Western Europe, US Army and German troops.
Unlike museums, these vehicles are driven around and take part in mock combat with infantry. This particular event had this Stuart tank, and a small number of soft-skinned vehicles. There were about 200 people in attendance wearing World War Two period uniforms.
Most of them took part in the mock battles. The battle took place at 10:00 a.m. and at 2:00 p.m. They fired rifles, pistols, machine guns, and even the tank and a large anti-tank gun. The reenactors used blank ammunition, flares, and smoke grenades. It was well done and very exciting.
This is a real World War Two Schwimmwagen, like the one Roco Minitanks made. It is interesting to see a real one, driving around. The details on the real vehicle can help create a model that is a more accurate version of our little vehicles.
These vehicles look very authentic, outside driving around. Very different from visiting on static display in a museum.
A real Stuart tank can cost $200,000 for one in good condition. All the vehicles and equipment in this reenactment were privately owned and operated. The owners of this equipment are naturally, very enthusiastic about their vehicles. As such, they are very happy to talk to anyone about their tank and answer any questions about the vehicle.
It is amazing how small a Stuart tank is, but how very powerful it seems when it rumbles past.
These owner – operators are vast storehouses of information and are happy to share that information with visitors. Most of the time the information they provide is highly accurate and precise.
Here is a ¾ ton weapons carrier. It is amazing to see 80 year old vehicles that look like they are brand new, fully functioning and driving around like they did when in service.
So what color is World War Two olive drab? What does a tank look like when it has been driving around in the dust all day? What markings should I put on my Jeep bumper and what do those markings mean? All those kinds of questions can be answered by attending a World War Two reenactment. You will find lots of people there happy to answer all your questions. These are family oriented events, so take the kids, and the wife and have a great time.
Mike Bunkermeister Creek