Vietnam War Reenactments

The Vietnam War Reenactments are mostly done in the US, but is reenacted in countries in Europe as well. Vietnam War Reenactments groups wish to honor the veterans of the war and to promote awareness and educate the public. Many Vietnam War reenactors also reenact other time periods.

Vietnam War reenactors strive to make everything authentic, even for those acting as the Vietnamese. Authenticity is especially important in Vietnam reenactments in order to respectfully represent veterans, many of who are still alive. Many groups stress that they are not trying to play, they are looking to create living history.

All items, including jewelry and glasses must be of the time period. Participants eat rations and sleep on the ground. Modern food such as fast food is absolutely not allowed. All clothing is required to have the Division insignia on left shoulder and rank insignia on both arms if applicable. Combat clothing includes, a coat, trousers, both made of cotton, poplin or tip-stop in Type III-Jungle, wool blend socks, combat boots, and tags. Field equipment includes a steel helmet, suspenders, ammunition belt, canteen with cover, First Aid pouch and more. Each piece of clothing and equipment should be checked for accuracy. Approved weapons include m-16A1 rifle full size with a M7 bayonet, M-14 rifle, M-60 Machine gun. “Hollywood” style Blank Firing Adapter (BFA) should be used in all rifles. GI blank adaptors are not allowed.

In Vietnam War Reenactments events no modern vehicles are allowed past certain checkpoints. Drinking during combat scenarios is not allowed, and drug use is not allowed at any time. Flying objects are allowed at Vietnamese forces since they do not use helmets. Most groups have similar guidelines; so make sure you find out the rules before you attend a reenactment.

In many Vietnam War reenactments, participates create a scenario before hand so they aren’t just shooting at one another all day. The scenario they create is only loosely followed, to allow a level of freedom for the reenactors. They scenarios include capturing the enemy, moving supplies, and destroying the enemy’s ammunition.

If you want not only a hobby, but also a way of learning and also honoring veterans, then Vietnam War reenacting is the time period for you! There are units in Florida, Kentucky, Texas and Virginia, as well as European countries such as Poland. Search online or talk to other reenactors to find a group near you.