On September 15 and 16, 2012 the National Park Service will sponsor a World War II living history weekend at the Eisenhower National Historic Site. An authentic recreation of both Allied and German army camps, complete with original World War II vehicles, will be set up on the site. Over 300 living history enthusiasts will portray military personnel from the European Theater in 1944.
Living history volunteers will present programs on World War II medical services, weapons and equipment, communications, military vehicles, and the life of the common soldier. Dozens of World War II vehicles will be displayed and a mock Army Air Force bomber squadron mission briefing presented. Veterans will share their war experiences in lectures offered throughout the weekend.
Both days the public may purchase lunch in a recreated army mess tent sponsored by the Heidlersburg Volunteer Fire Company.
Saturday night a World War II style "USO" dance will be held at the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center from 7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., featuring 1940s music by the Gettysburg Big Band. Open to the public, tickets will be sold at the door for $10.00. A cash bar will be available. Living historians encamped at the Eisenhower site are admitted free.
The encampment will be open Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Sunday 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Admission to the Eisenhower National Historic Site is by shuttle bus. Buses depart from the Gettysburg National Military Park Visitor Center located at 1195 Baltimore Pike. For reservations, call 1-877-874-2478.
Weather permitting, visitors have the option to park at the site for WWII Weekend only. Fees to enter the site by personal vehicle or shuttle bus are: adults, $7.50; children 6-12, $5.00; children age 6 and under are admitted free.