World War II Reenactors To Bivouac at Sully This Weekend

Image: Sully Historic Site will host Allied and Axis reenactors for a weekend of demonstrations, memories and music (Fairfax County).

Release: Fairfax County

Sully Historic Site will host its annual World War II Weekend on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. Meet reenactors representing American, Allied and German troops, and get an up-close look at what life was like for soldiers and civilians.

Interpreters will have authentic uniforms, equipment, weapons and vehicles on display in their camps. Demonstrations will be scheduled throughout both days, and there will be a tactical skirmish each afternoon.

Tour the 1794 home of Richard Bland Lee and find out how things changed on the home front during World War II in Fairfax County. See an exhibit of Army uniforms and personal belongings collected during the war years.

Children can play games, create a take-home craft and learn about Victory gardens. In the kitchen, our costumed interpreter will explain the hardships of producing healthy, tasty meals while ingredients were in short supply. Learn about wartime rationing and see 1940s canning equipment.

Over the weekend, two authors will be on hand to talk about and sign their books:

• Robert Dorr has written numerous books on World War II topics. At Sully, he will have copies of his book, “Fighting Hitler’s Jets.”
• Kathleen Kinsolving will share inspiring stories of World War II leaders and their pets from her book, “Dogs of War.”

In Sully’s new Visitor Center, enjoy an exhibit from a private collection of non-commissioned officer uniforms of the German Wehrmacht. Included will be rare uniforms from each of the four German military services: Coastal Artillery (Navy), Hermann Goering Panzer Division flak gunner (Air Force), Cavalry (Army) and Panzer (Waffen-SS). Each of these tunics and caps are totally authentic to World War II.

On Saturday, The Moonlight Jazz Orchestra will play your favorite tunes from the 1940s. At 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m., join us on the lawn for performances that will make you want to get up and dance. The Moonlight Jazz Orchestra comprises members of the non-profit Prince William Community Band.

The event will be held rain or shine. Admission is $8 for adults and $6 for seniors and children. All veterans and active-duty military personel with ID will be admitted free of charge. Food will be available for purchase and parking is free.

Sully Historic Site is at 3650 Historic Sully Way in Chantilly, off Route 28. For more information, please click here or call 703-437-1794.