A Visit to World War II - Rockford Style

Photo by Lisa Dousharm

Dear Reader,
This past weekend, I went to the event that introduced me to World War II reenacting.  Every year, Midway Village in Rockford, IL hosts World War II Days, the largest World War II reenactment in the Midwest. It's always a nice trip for me when I get to go because I have so many friends attending.  I went on Saturday only as a paid spectator rather than as a reenactor, but you can guarantee I dressed.

The weather was brutal!  If you read my post about the RWA National Conference at Walt Disney World, I can safely say it was about as bad as the weather that trip.  Hot, humid, oppressive!  Several people went down from the heat over the weekend.  I was so glad I opted for a cotton day dress and a poodle-do (in all its frizziness), though I could have done without the foundation garment. I honestly didn't even make it back into the woods or out to the main battle (which they ultimately cancelled when a brush fire started thanks to the dry grass and pyrotechnics). I spent much of the time hidden in the shade gabbing with friends.  One friend, Lisa, decided to take advantage of me sitting in front of the typewriter at their RAF encampment to snap a few pictures. 

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World War II Spotlight

Overall, though, I enjoyed visiting with friends, shopping amongst the vendors, and getting a chance to play in my favorite era. I even scored a new vintage purse that I can't wait to use in the near future.  It's a nice event that has a lot of history in the area, though I am probably a bit biased.

I'll close with my top three moments from the day.
1. The delicious Polish food served by a local church. Even though it was heavy, the salt was perfect for replenishing electrolytes. But, really, I never turn down Polish food.
2. Chatting up an adorable World War II Army Air Corps veteran and hearing his stories. His wife told me my outfit and hair looked perfect, but that she would have worn socks with the espadrilles I was wearing. Who knew?
3. The working World War II spotlight that someone brought out. It was amazing! Your eyes couldn't help but draw themselves heavenward, searching for enemy aircraft. And the distance it could be seen from was crazy!

Till next time. 

I'll be seeing you!
~Molly

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