'FJR2' is a living history group comprised of individuals with a genuine interest in the German forces of WWII, especially the elements of the paratroop forces.

The members of the group come from many different backgrounds and have come into the hobby by being war gamers, military modellers and military collectors. Some members are current or ex British forces. All that the group asks for is commitment to the group and a genuine desire in accurately portraying the troops of the German Fallschirmjäger of WWII.

The group is based predominantly in the south of England, but tries to attend shows as far afield as possible. We welcome prospective new members from any part of the country, or indeed, beyond! We have members in London, Devon, Oxfordshire, and the Home Counties. We regularly attend private living history battles as well as public displays, where we aim to help the public in understanding the wartime experience.

We aim to have high standards of kit and presentation, and always strive to improve ourselves. Through many years of re-enacting, we have been able to gain the experience necessary to seek out top quality reproduction items.

What do we do?

As a WWII military living history group we aim to recreate elements of the life of the German soldier of WWII. This may be the exhilaration of a mock combat situation, it can also be learning foot drill, rifle drill, digging foxholes and living in the field just as the German soldier did during WWII.

All of these activities are done with an eye on historical detail and either original or accurate reproduction uniforms and equipment are used at all times. This is done in order to allow us the chance of experiencing in a very minor way some of the same experiences as the German soldier during WWII.

Where do we do it?

Members of the group attend 8-10 events every year. These events either tend to be public events where we are taking part in a themed event which is open to the public to view, at these event the group usually creates a 'static display' based on a historical event which enables the public to see a brief snapshot of history.

The other type of event members attend are 'tactical simulations' based on a WWII historical theme, where members re-enact a more frontline combat situation living in the field with period equipment and using legal blank firing weapons.

What does it Cost?

Every member of the group must supply themselves with both a basic uniform and equipment at their own cost. A list of what is required for basic uniform and equipment requirements is supplied to every member along with a list of preferred retailers.

This can be an expensive hobby and their is an exhaustive list of uniforms and equipment that could be bought, only the basic list is compulsory. Annual membership is £20. Part of this goes towards insurance the rest goes towards the unit funds. All new members are placed on a 3 event trial.

If you are interested in becoming a member of the group please contact us at fjr2@live.co.uk