Recruitment Information
How Do I Join?
We are always accepting applications for membership into our group. The best way to get in contact with us about joining would be to email us at the link below. There are certain requirements to join our group, some of which you will find in the "Frequently Asked Questions" section also listed below. We appreciate your interest in our group and look forward to communicating with you!
Frequently Asked Questions
How old do I have to be to join?
You must be 18 years of age to join SS Deutschland. This does not mean that all hope is lost for those of you who are at 15-17 years of age. You must be accompanied by a legal guardian (Father & Son memberships are recommended), Our Jungen Soldaten program program includes positions such as:
- Medic
- Ammo Carrier (Machine Gun Squad)
- Orderly
- Radio Operator
- Messenger
This program offers a good introduction to the reenacting world and a great way to bond as a Father & Son team.
Ok, well i'm of age. How much is the gear, and where do I get it?
Slow down... The Number One rule in our unit is, "Ask before you buy!" Trust us, we all look to cut costs as much as possible, yet still look authentic. You will be assigned a member sponsor/mentor that will help you with acquiring your gear at minimum cost to you.
We have many trusted vendors that we use on a regular basis. Some of the vendors are listed on our links page, but we still use others that are not listed. A list will be provided to you upon your joining.
The average cost of the basic kit will run you around $1,000-$1,500. It seems expensive, but there is a one year allowance period to acquire the basic kit. Often times we will find deals on certain items, and it may cost you much less than this to purchase the gear. We also have some loaner gear, but clothing items like boots, a tunic, and trousers will have to be purchased before your first event.
Alright, how much are the events? And how many are there a year?
Events range in cost. There are a few events a year that we attend that are free to reenactors, and one event that we attend costs around $50, but includes barracks, hot showers, and your own bunk. Most events usually range from $10-$20, not including the cost for gas, foodstuffs, etc.
There is usually one event a month. Sometimes there are more, sometimes there are less. You can always check our Events Page to see what events are coming up next.
Where do you do the events?
Events are located all over the New England area. We have events as far North as Vermont, as far South as Pennsylvania, and as West as upstate New York. Most of our events however, are located in, and around Massachusetts. Often times we will carpool to make it a little easier on everyone's wallets.
Do I have to speak German?
Yes! Most of the time we are practicing German when around camp, and we do try to speak as much German as possible while in the field. We also use German while doing rifle drill, and for field commands. We have lists of the phrases that we use, and will help you learn the phrases at events. This will come with time and there is no time limit to learn German.
Other Unit Requirements
Weight Restriction
Our unit does have a weight restriction. We try to look as authentic as possible with our impression in every aspect of reenacting. If you look at original pictures, the average soldier was in very good shape as they were always on the move, and did not have a lot of food available to them. We look for members that are at least in relatively decent shape, that take care of their bodies.
Haircuts
SS Deutschland requires haircuts appropriate for the time period. The photo below is what is expected when you arrive at an event. This haircut is called a "fade". Any good barber should be able to replicate this for you by telling him that you want a "no guard fade" or a "number zero fade". Ask the barber to leave the top as long as possible.
Facial hair of any type is NOT permitted. NO EXCEPTIONS!
Non-Period Items
Again, going back to an authenticity stand point, we want to appear to be as period-close as possible. Obviously, there are things in today's day and age that make life much more convenient than that of the 1940's. Modern items such as toothbrushes, and deodorant may be used, but must be hidden as well as possible, in both use, and not in use. Appearance is everything. Here is a list of items that should not be used / brought (unless needed) to events:
- Cell Phones
- Plastic Water Containers
- Any food not wrapped period correct (Or stored unseen until ready for use)
- Non-period Jewelry
- Non-Period Eyewear
- Sleeping Bags
A good rule of thumb is basically, if you think you shouldn't bring it, you're probably right... But do not hesitate to ask.
For any other questions or general information, please feel free to contact us at any time. We are always happy to help people get into WWII reenacting, and will help you the best that we can. Thank you for your interest!
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