Airborne Reenactors
Airborne Reenactors, Inc. (also known as Baker Company) is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Akron, Ohio with members throughout the northeastern United States. The group is dedicated to educating the public about the role of the American soldier during World War II through hist...
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01 // OVERVIEW
Overview
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Airborne Reenactors, Inc. (also known as Baker Company) is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Akron, Ohio with members throughout the northeastern United States. The group is dedicated to educating the public about the role of the American soldier during World War II through historically accurate reenactments, school programs, and community presentations.
The organization focuses specifically on the 502nd Parachute Infantry Regiment, Company B, 101st Airborne Division, portraying paratroopers and support personnel from 1941-1945. Their mission is straightforward: honor our veterans through living history while presenting the diverse aspects of the United States Airborne soldier's uniforms, equipment, actions, and battles with as much authenticity as possible.
All members are volunteers who donate their own time and materials. The organization operates year-round with a calendar of events and activities:
- •Battle Reenactments - Full-scale tactical recreations including D-Day, Operation Market Garden, and Battle of the Bulge scenarios
- •School Programs - Educational presentations bringing WWII history directly to students
- •Living History Displays - Static and interactive exhibits at historical sites and commemorative events
- •Corporate Event Presentations - Custom programs for businesses and organizations
- •Guest Speaker Engagements - Veteran speakers and historical experts
- •Veterans Support Activities - Honor guard for funeral ceremonies, wreath-laying events, veteran escort services
Camp Beaumont Battle of the Bulge (February) - Held at Camp Beaumont near Rock Creek, Ohio (30 miles southwest of Conneaut). This is a non-spectator tactical event featuring indoor billeting and hot meals. The event accommodates Allied and German impressions consistent with December 1944 operations around Bastogne, including female impressions from medical, communications, and field correspondent roles. Vehicle operations with both soft-skinned and armored vehicles are featured.
- •Annual D-Day Reenactment - Held in Conneaut, Ohio
- •Bridge at Remagen Event - Members participate in the Tidioute, Pennsylvania WWII event portraying the 9th Armored Division, 78th Infantry Division, and 99th Infantry Division units that seized the Ludendorff Bridge in March 1945. Recent events drew 2,000+ spectators.
The organization accepts both Allied and German reenactor participation at major events, allowing for historically accurate multi-sided scenarios.
| Position | Name |
|---|---|
| Chairman/President | Donnie Schanz |
| Vice President | Tim Klug |
| Treasurer | Chris Bauer |
| Secretary | Peter Kent |
| Platoon Leader | Donnie Schanz |
| Assistant Platoon Leader | Carl Johnson |
The organization actively recruits new members through their "Enlist" program. Members need:
- •Authentic WWII-era uniforms and equipment (reproduction items acceptable)
- •Willingness to participate in educational and tactical events
- •Commitment to historical accuracy and respectful portrayal
- •Membership in the northeastern US (though members participate in national events)
Funds raised support:
- •Reproduction equipment including uniforms and tents
- •Transportation to out-of-state programs and presentations
- •Educational programs and materials
- •Veterans programs and events
- •Honor guard equipment for funeral ceremonies
- •Equipment storage and maintenance
The organization actively seeks corporate sponsors, foundation grants, and individual donations. Contact Treasurer Chris Bauer at [email protected] for sponsorship opportunities.
The organization maintains detailed uniform and equipment standards documents for both US and German impressions to ensure historical accuracy at major events. Complete organizational documents are available for registered members covering:
- •Uniform requirements
- •Equipment specifications
- •Order of battle documentation
- •Event schedules and logistics
Mailing Address: Airborne Reenactors, Inc. 1449 West Market Street Akron, OH 44313
The organization maintains an active online presence with event calendars, membership information, and registration for major tactical events.
Fire Restrictions Active
Check current conditions before visiting. Smoking and open flames may be prohibited.
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