Steve 82

Thanks again to Paul and Bob for making the show happen. We attended with the 1970`s era NATO / Bundeswehr VW181 and Unimog telex truck and, set upearly in the week so as to broadcast daily from the field on short-wave (a.m.). Camping overnight and commuting to work (!), it was great to experience the practicalities of operating the 1960`s comms system on a regular basis. The weekend saw theappearance of several VMARS (Vintage Military and Ammateur Radio Society) memberswith their radio kit – and it was great to put faces to the names of those I generally only chat with on-air. Having chatted during the Saturday morning, two dedicated society members travelled up from Hampshire during the afternoon to come and see our set up ! Having focussed mostly on radio issues this time, I took few pics only of the event (although we did manage a little jaunt around the arena (post war vehicles), so here are a few of our display. Great show and, a nice opportunity for everyone to show that our vehicles actually can work when it rains Looking forward to next year, Cheers, Steve 82 Sunset (18.06) First morning (19.06) Early Morning Kubel (18.06) Unimog in the `hangar` The Missus recording the radio traffic The Monday after…..

Hi, Am just in the process of sorting a simple barrier fence for my pitch at some of this seasons shows. Can anyone point me to a source of steel pickets from which I can support a heavy nylon line ? Thanks Steve 82

Great show last year, so with the MVT support this time - it should prove memorable. Tried my Mk 1 version of a functional Bundeswehr / NATO comms display last year which I hope to improve upon this year. It would certainly be great to see more Bundeswehr equipment there and, I am trying to persuade a number of VW181 owners to attend (the modern-day Kubelwagen which saw civilian and Bundeswehr use in the 1970`s). Must remember to remove my 4m antenna this time before entering the local multi-storey carpark.... :nut:. Cheers Steve

Dear All, Trust your Christmas went well. This is a quick report on a modest winter drive held around the Evesham area on the 29th December. The event was arranged by members of the South Midlands MVT and, involved a 40-or so mile drive over the rolling countryiside, hills and forests surrounding Evesham. Setting-off from Ashdown Camp with 7 Military and 3 civilian vehicles at around 10:30am, we took in some excellent scenery – both through the hillls and forests before making it to Toddington railway station for a well-earned cup of tea and lunchtime snack ! Most of the contingent then elected to take an equally scenic route back to the camp – minus the off-road forest track section. In-all, a much-welcomed chance to get out and about in the vehicles post-Christmas and, an opportunity to put some faces to names. As an added bonus….the weather turned-out sunny and dry ! I understand that another run is planned for sometime in June. Please therefore find below a few of the pics I managed to take at a few of the stop-overs Cheers Steve 82

Interesting thread and, great advice on some of the pitfalls in setting-up a cammo net ! I also totally agree that full camouflage sort defeats the object of `showing` your vehicle. My interest is 1970`s –era Bundeswehr signals vehicles. Fortunately, research into the service life of my particular Unimog model has shown that during the Cold War these vehicles were rear echelon and typically camouflaged under a `garage` - type netting arrangement to screen from high altitude observation only. The objective of such measures were to provide an easily accessible means by which to conceal the true identity of vehicles rather than try to conceal their presence entirely (although this was done as far as possible). After a couple of practice-runs, this arrangement works well for me at shows – providing an accurate impression yet unimpeded view of the vehicles and equipment for pedestrians (yes I know, glass and headlights not covered.....) . I believe that many other NATO re-enactors of this period also follow a similar path. Cheers

Hi Mike, Just checked my pics of the internal displays and I think this aircraft was described as a Provost T Mk52. Cheers, Steve

Part 3 Ship - Front Ship – Rear 1 Ship – Rear 2 Bofors

Part 2 Iltis FC soft-top I want one of these for doing the shopping…..Panhard VBL The Sultan`s Limos Command Post – External Command post (one of the rooms) Battery Bell Beaver Hunter Strikemaster Provost T Mk52 Skyvan -1 Skyvan – 2 Skyvan – 3

Last weekend, I managed to break from my work in the Arabian Gulf and spent a glorious weekend in the capitol of Oman – Muscat. While reading through the tourist information in the hotel, I came across a mention of the Sultan`s Armed Forces Museum. Frankly, the write-up was very brief (I had not discovered their web page at that time) and, my expectations not too great. How wrong I was. The following is therefore a short report on my visit including, some typical images of the outdoor exhibits (the internal displays are of similar quality). Hope you find it informative and of interest. The museum is conveniently located, just off Bayt-Al-Falaj Street in Ruwi District (one of the main N-S highways running through the City) and, easy to access by taxi or personal car. Oman is very civilised for driving – generally quiet roads and well-behaved drivers! Passing through a brief security check, we made the short drive to the car park and pulled-up next to the Ferret `gate guard` before walking up to the reception hall. Even the museum building itself has its own history. The structure was originally an operational fort (Bayt-Al-Falaj Fort) which, due to its importance eventually became the army HQ. As with all good defensive positions designed to resist siege, the fort even has its own water supply direct from the nearby mountains ! Paying the nominal entry fee, we were warmly welcomed and assigned our guide for the visit - Staff Sgt Youseff. He is a former helicopter crew-member and, knowledgeable museum guide who patiently answered all my questions throughout our time there. The museum indoor displays trace Oman`s military – and indeed countries history from Persian Empire times through to the present day. Many graphical displays / maps, weapons (blade / firearms), uniforms, equipment and model dioramas are spread-out through the numerous rooms leading off the main corridoors. Due to the extent of the larger museum items ( the vehicles, aircraft, small ships and, full size dioramas), the `hardware` is by necessity located out of doors. The weather was a bit hot (45 degrees C) at the time of the visit, but nothing that a good sun hat would not cure. If you can chose your timing however, then I would recommend the cooler season October–March and, allow at least 2 hours - probably closer to 3hrs, to take everything - in. The outdoor display area is very attractive with lots of leafy shrubs and cover. The exhibits themselves are quite large and the authorities clearly went to a lot of effort to restore and transport them to this location. The exhibits fall into the following categories: · Army and Royal Guard : the emphasis is 1960`s and onwards – with a heavy bias to British-equipment. Notably, the Royal Guard exhibits and the Sultan`s Limo`s have special sun covers ! The displays also include several full-sized dioramas with an army of manequins in current uniforms. All dioramas are fully accessible / walk through and include a fighting position, two different command posts and artillery battery`s. · Royal Air Force : The aircraft selection is more international - though again, with a strong British influence. · Royal Navy : This included 2 vessels – a wooden dhow-type vessel (not unlike the current fishing vessels in the region) and, a very recent looking surface-surface missile boat. I did enjoy climbing aboard and looking over what appeared to be quite modern weaponary and systems Finishing-off the tour, we made our way back to the reception area, where we engaged in some interesting conversation with the other serving staff members – plus of course the customary visit to the souvenir shop ! As I found-out when leaving, the museum has a modest web page ( www.safmuseum.gov.om ), and I suggest you check on that for further information. Overall therefore, a very nice quality museum into which a lot of thought and effort has been invested – both in terms of setting-up and maintaining. If you visit Muscat and, you want to find out more about Oman`s history - then a visit to the Sultan`s Armed Forces Museum will not disappoint. Cheers Steve 82 Saladin Ferret Armoured Car Chieftan Bedford ? Mk III - Desert Mk III Ambulance LR Mk III Fire Tender Land Cruiser Landy half-track - front Landy half-track – side Armoured Car

Just a thought but……. Why is it as a hobby we seem to hold virtually no winter meetings ? Granted, there are several indoor fairs and, the occasional `chilblane` run but, as a whole, in the colder months we down-tools. Given the capability of our vehicles, our military standard camping gear / heaters etc and of course, the challenge of operating the kit under these conditions, it’s a pity that more do not fancy a bit of winter fun and games at least once over the colder months. It may be that local events would stand a better chance of succeeding and, I will try to gauge interest locally (Worcestershire) over the next few months. However, it would be good to hear peoples thoughts from different areas. Dreaming of the snow (not the Beltring kind), Steve W.

My only comment: its a vehicle show, with most of those attending NOT taking part in the arena. Despite this, most pics are of the arena and Living history. I realise the need to show `action` pics however, am sure many attendees would also love to see an image of their pride and joy. Not saying we can have all 2600 vehicles (as I saw posted elsewhere), but some would be nice at least. Cheers Steve W.

Chicken and egg possibly......the reason the MOP`s do not venture further is that they know no major displays are to be found in Medway field. If on the other hand it were exclusively Living History, would be suprised if things did not change. Or, why not put the stalls down there - after all, the show is supposed to be about the vehicles....right ? Cheers Steve W.

Lets not start on `who was worse than who...` There are an ever decreasing number of people around who actually fought through WW2 - and of course, any war before that and, I think it very relevant that we keep all periods alive in peoples memories to remind of all the sacrifices by ALL peoples and, more importantly of the lessons learnt. Just to make a point, three years ago, I was giving a talk at a `Jamboree on the Air`(JOTA) for Scouts up to 13 / 14 yrs old. Group after group crammed into the back of my Unimog comms vehicle and, I gave a short introduction to the Cold War, NATO, Warsaw Pact etc followed by an opportunity to try the radio kit. Probably no more than 5 (out of 35) had the slightest idea about any of this history (or indeed any period before) and I found myself appalled that so many of our kids are growing up as if none of it ever happened. While there is a certain `carnival` atmosphere at the `War and Peace Show` and others, I feel these events play a more serious role in educating about recent history - hence my committment to supporting Living History. Steve W.

As a former re-enactor at the show, I know only too well the gutted feeling following preparation, financial outlay and time – only to be relegated to Medway field upon arrival – with little prospect of any viewers of my display ! Happened to me 3 times before I called it a day. Despite this however, I fully appreciate the issues of running such a large show and the policing of pre-booking. As I see it: · Some folks can take more time-off than others for their hobby · some live closer to the show than others and can therefore nip over to `stake their claim` the week before. These are not `unfair advantages`, just realities of life. To be super-fair, we could in theory adopt a refundable deposit policy for pitches - proceeds going to charity where there were no-shows or, requirements had been grossly over-estimated. Needless to say, the practicalities of policing such a system would be `challenging` at best. It is my understanding that the current system is first-come, first-serve – with a twist – i.e. if you come early enough to place a plaquard and some cord, you can claim your slot. I also understand that these `claims` are largely respected (well, sort-of). As much as this system has done me no favours over the years, on a practical level, I concede it works. My only suggestion is that if someone does not fill a slot on the first day of the event (Wednesday I think ?), then it should automatically be forfeited. Similarly, If a group only partially materialises, then , stragglers should be treated the same as everyone else – i.e. first-come, first serve and, the plot size reduced by the marshalls accordingly if someone is available to occupy the space. The best we can hope for I suppose is to have a level playing field with, first-come being equally applied to all. Any other thoughts ?? Cheers Steve 82

Great images lads - very clear and detailed ! Unable to make it back to Blighty this year (1st W&P Ive missed in 14 years !) - so keep them coming, they are appreciated. Cheers, Steve

And finally......the end result ! Still need some more support poles, but, overall am happy with the 1970`s appearence of my BW sigs re-enactment Steve 82

Here are some period photos of different nets in use. I understand that all available nets were used - initially a combination of different BW models combined with available US stock. Later, these could even be supplemented with inherited East German stocks. Cheers Steve 82

Hi, This was supposed to be our 14th visit – but for the first time, I have been unable to make it back to UK ! I am gutted to put it mildly. Anyhow, what I wanted to ask, has any thought about a setting-up a webcam ? Would be so nice to get a few live shots of the event (sounds like the 2008 mud). All the best to my good friends – have a great event ! Steve 82

Thanks guys, will go for flikr from here on ! Cheers Steve 82

Can anyone please recommend an alternative to photobucket ? I have been taking pics at public living history events and have recently had a few pics removed by photobucket with no explanation . We are talking public show stuff here which had been fully scriutinised for all angles of `political correctness`. Life is just too short to waste my time with such companies and dumping photobucket seems the easiest route. Any alternative suggestions would therefore be appreciated. Thanks Steve 82

Final pics......ok, maybe a little biased towards Bundy stuff ! Unfortunately, the Schutzenpanzer is not mine.... My stuff :

Some more pics..... The Camp : Living History : Civilian :

FIRSTLY - A BIG THANKS TO PAUL VALIDES AND Mr & Mrs BOB JAMES FOR PROVIDING US WITH AN OUTSTANDING LOCAL EVENT. LONG MAY IT CONTINUE TO GROW ! As for myself, it was a very busy and successful 3-4 days. Managed to bring my Unimog-based teleprinter station and radio Kubel (both ex-Bundeswehr ) which were set-up to represent a typical NATO re-broadcast station. On-air before and during the event, I made many good radio contacts across the UK, and, received on-demand telex broadcasts from Germany (Hamburg meteo - though sadly, few use mechanical teleprinters these days, so no exchanges were possible). Several other stations also operated over the weekend from other nearby vehicles – Neil Wedgebury (Bedford Radar Vehicle), Jeremy Carvill (Bedford microwave rebroadcast station), Mark Elliot (Landrover 127). Several Austin K9 radio trucks were also in attendance but, am unsure whether any of them were broadcasting. Hand cranking the 1960 BMW - powered generator continues to be a problem (its not just a matter of eating more Corn Flakes…) so, if someone out there is familiar with the BMW 403 (300cc motorbike / Issetta engine), then I would be grateful for a chat sometime. Finally, here are some additional pics I took during the event, which I will send as a few posts (space limitations !) Cheers, Steve 82 On the Field:

Am researching the cammouflage nest systems developed by the Bundeswehr through the 1970`s and 1980`s in order to be as accurate as possible for my signals Living history displays this Summer. To the best of my knowledge: 1970`s nets - intermittent irregular sections of plastic textured material (scrim) attached to cord nets poles - aluminium spreaders - steel arms with web spreader straps 1980`s nets - cord nets, completely covered with plastic textured material (heavier than equivalently sized 1970`s versions) poles - GRP spreaders - same as 1970`s In both cases - one side coloured green and black, the other earth, green and black Multiple nets were joined along the edges using special cords with fittings which connected with the metal rings fixed around the net borders. Could someone possibly clarify techniques used to erect large net structures. Thanks Steve 82

Troy, I have a 1996 - dated pdf of a German manual setting out dress code for all BW uniforms, badges etc (including Flecktarn - or `DPM` as you refer to it). Depends what dates you are looking to re-enact though, so if you can be a bit more specific, perhaps I can help. Otherwise, send me your email and will forward the doc to you (3.7MB). Another good place is to go to the BW forum located on www.wehrmacht-awards.com which discusses and illustrates with pics much of the kit. Cheers, Steve 82