My First Night Sleeping in a WW2 Foxhole: Trench Coat, Helmet, Genuine WW2 Gear

[@Aitherious]

You spent one cold, uncomfortable night - it breaks my heart to think of the many nights my father must have spent in a mudhole like that with nothing but a measly meal and inadequate blanket for comfort. Not in the spirit of adventure but with mortars pounding all around, fearing that each breath might be your last. For my father it very nearly was. He was left for dead on the front lines after being hit by shrapnel. His brother, a courier, having been told his brother was lost in battle that morning, at the end of that days fighting went to the front to search for the body, By some miracle he was still alive. He went on to live another 50 years with only one lung, half his intestines and numerous bits of shrapnel left embedded in various parts of his body. He was one of the lucky ones. LEST WE FORGET - LEST WE FORGET.

[@TAOutdoors]

You’re father and millions of others who must have felt the same as him. So many gave such a huge sacrifice. The ultimate fear of the unknown. Not knowing whether they will be alive to see another day. This is why I am passionate about making films like this. Because I refuse to forget, and it’s my way of paying respect to those who served and those who gave their lives for our freedom.

[@garymorton7922]

HEROES FATHER and BROTHER My 20 year old father was on LUZON in Phillipines in 42 he was a medic and saved men and he almost died of malaria he was so humble in his life quiet and enjoyed simple things like mom bringing him some cake and coffee He was our hero GOD BLESS all our HEROES

[@Aitherious]

@@TAOutdoors I sometimes wonder if those who give the ultimate sacrifice are luckier than some of those who survive after the hell they go through. The lost friends, lost limbs, ptsd and an unappreciative country that lets them wallow in their pain which drives them to take their own life anyway. As my fathers youngest brother did. I have no hope of seeing a change in this world in my lifetime. I hope you will in yours. Stay passionate.

[@Tism_me_timbers]

nobody asked

[@garymorton7922]

@@Tism_me_timbers ?

[@campgiant2392]

The "W" is for "warden". My grandfather was an air-raid warden: we still have his helmet and it's got the "W" on it.

[@davemartin1534]

Figured that my self but wasn't sure since I am a American. Just seemed in back of my mind I had heard of the rank of Warden. All due respect to your grandfather he had a stressful job to do during WW l I.

[@donaldbradshaw4428]

The air wardens were in the town and cities of Britain and the US. They patrolled neighborhoods to ensure "blackout procedures were being followed, no light visible from a house at night. My grandparents still had blackout shades on the windows when I was very young. My Mom told me what they were for.

[@rob45x]

@@donaldbradshaw4428 why did they have to have all lights out if you don't mind me asking?

[@zonacrs]

@@rob45x To protect against night time air raids. No light makes targeting difficult.

[@campgiant2392]

My Grandfather patrolled areas about 10 miles north of Manchester (Bacup/Rochdale) checking to make sure houses were blacked-out He'd patrol the town and then head up into the moors and check the remote farm houses. There was a fear at the time that the Germans would drop paratroops with artillery up on those high, foreboding hills and shell the factories in Manchester. He had a scare once where he was patrolling a remote lane at night and heard a "click-click" coming from behind him. Thinking it was a German paratrooper cycling a rifle bolt, he kept going as-if to pretend he didn't hear it, but then he heard it again, and realized it was a cow leaning on a gate! In 1914, at age 11, he'd lost is arm to gangrene after getting hurt and not going to a doctor soon enough (they were very poor). This was during WWI and after the surgery he woke up in a hospital ward in Manchester full of wounded soldiers freshly back from France - many of them with multiple amputations themselves and mud still on their uniforms. He always told me he that when he woke up and realized his arm was gone he was shocked, but couldn't feel sorry for himself because all the soldiers around him were also missing legs and/or arms. He was a very gentle and hard-working man. He helped support his family with multiple jobs: running the large lifts in a cotton mill, stoking a boiler at a bank, and repairing shoes and making toys in his attic workshop - all with one arm. My grandmother also worked running weaving looms in a cotton mill from at 13 to age 65. We still have some of my grandfather's prosthetic tools - most of which he made himself because he was too poor to afford them. My children play with some of the toys he made for me back in the early 80s and I always make sure they know these stories, among many others.

[@kavalkid1]

The smell of the wool, and the jute with the waterproofing. Memories flooding back. Spam was not as homogenized as it is now. Chunks of pork in consummé. You are connecting us to our collective past. The work you do is greater than you can know. You are the lark, still bravely singing.

[@TheIncredibleMrJHD]

@@ryanoglesbee1075 have some respect for your elders kid

[@daleanguiano6780]

I spent my time in ACUs in the US Army just several years ago. Even then I was really appreciating the brave soldiers of history. I really do appreciate content like this.

[@rwgoutdoors4816]

Loving your WW2 theme. I'm from the USA Knoxville Tennessee & my grandfather fought in WW2. He was in the invasion on Normandy Beach. 82 airborne division. I've been to many yearly conventions that was in my grandfather's unit. Amazing men . I'm 55 now & he's moved on to the next life along with most of the great I'll say that again GREAT men. I still miss him very much. He was my best friend when I was a young man & I feel very fortunate to be able to spend a lot of time with him. He will always be my hero. Howard Shofner never forgotten.

[@mrRobbins999]

Just imagine walking through them woods and seeing Mike dressed as a ww2 soldier walking amongst the trees. You would think you were seeing a ghost lol

[@SirGuido]

Were, not was

[@briankane6547]

Or stepped into a time-warp? ;¬)

[@eugbrat]

@@SirGuido Give over! You knew what it meant.

[@MeatSporkMusic]

Lmao I was searching for this comment. I'd definitely be turning the other direction lol

[@donaldjaggers3255]

If I could find an army blankets I would buy several of them. Those were the warmest blankets and to be light you wouldn't think they would be so warm.

[@jerrydixon9343]

A wonderful tribute to the Greatest Generation. I remember before going off to Iraq feeling scared, nervous. As I looked over my gear, body armor, Kevlar, knee pads, goggles, first aid kit…I thought to myself that my WW2 predecessors didn’t have any of that, and they saved the world with little more than guts and glory! It brought me a sense of calm and I knew I’d be all right. Like you, I have tremendous respect and gratitude for all veterans, past and present. Thank you to all of you, and Happy Veterans Day. Until Valhalla!

[@dakotaovdan]

Can’t imagine all the feelings someone would of gone through fighting in the war, heroes are real.

[@rjl95]

@@TheFle77 Exactly which lands did they rob? And which natives did the British army kill during ww2? Typical libtard. They are the greatest generation who gave all they could to liberate the world from tyranny. All gave some, some gave all.

[@joeydr1497]

@@TheFle77 mostly Victoria not Elizabeth. And the British historical society

[@paprikabushcraft7597]

*would have

[@TheAmericanLarper]

@@TheFle77 so you blame the soldiers and not their leaders? Leaders are the ones telling the soldiers what to do, the soldiers just do what their told. I’m guessing your the type of person to blame the US soldiers for Vietnam and not their government. Soldiers are people too ya know, they have a life and a family. Being a soldier is just a job and nothing else.

[@TheAmericanLarper]

@@TheFle77 oh you think I’m a mindless drone, don’t you? Oh no, fortunately I don’t have your average American view point you see. But there is a limit to everything, no normal person likes war. And as someone who comes from a family with hundreds of years of military history, my ancestors didn’t like it either. But if there’s bills to be paid, then there’s money to be made. Understand?

[@unicorntv1232]

Black and white at the end. Nice touch. Brought out some feelings. Grew up watching black and white war movie reruns. 1950’s. Love this series. 👍

[@sierrasix5479]

My grandfather fought in WWII. This subject matter is personal to me. You are doing an amazing job of preserving history.

[@OakKnobFarm]

I enjoy the use of authentic WWII gear. great idea. You've done Celtic and Viking and... it's all history, and we enjoy each era.

[@Iron_Clad_D3]

I think this is one of the closest ways we can experience what our ancestors went through, whether it be a WWII trench, a Saxon log house, or even learning ancestral skills. Experiencing a tiny part of what made them, them can shed a light on what makes us, us.

[@millersaur]

Great comment!

[@rjl95]

Just for your information: It is a MKII helmet. The W stands for Warden and they were not "one size fits all". If you look at the date area, it should also show you a size. E.g. 7 1/4 for instance. Next to that a rope should have ran through each of the flaps in the liner. This allowed you to slightly adjust the height it sits on your head. Only the top of your heat should touch the foam pad in the dome. These go hard over time and thus don't feel comfortable whatsoever.

[@marykay55]

Interesting ! How do you know all this..have you experienced it in some way?

[@Lepper36]

@@moelassus Oh good, I wasn't the only one that thought he nicked it from Mr Hodges.

[@Billybob09871]

I also only knew the W from Dad's Army, I expected him to be shouting "Put that light out" when I first saw it

[@rjl95]

@@marykay55 Haha no fortunately not! I'm a ww2 collector and have some re-enactment experience.

[@anthonykennedy6758]

My father walked across Europe during World War II… He was on a bazooka team.. Are used to have so much of his gear, what time is not kind to articles that old. You’re doing a great job and a great service to the greatest generation of men this world has ever seen thank you

[@michaelaufenthie2104]

This was a great video. Very respectful. For us here in the U.S. , it is well timed with our Veteran’s Day observance.

[@heidih2887]

Thank you for honoring those who served! And trying out and showing us some of the gear (with more to come) to get a better "feel" for history, albeit without training officers barking/yelling, or the "nerves" of unknown destinations and horrors of battle. You sharing your impressions of the gear, showing it up close etc. provides a better understanding than typical documentaries because you can highlight different aspects and perspectives. My dad served in WWII, his folks helping him enlist in the U.S. Navy at age 17, and shipping off for training on his 18th birthday. He passed away last year, but always appreciated it so much when people remembered and honored veterans. I still remember the look on his face, and how tall and proud he stood, when I surprised him a few years ago, with a "shadowbox" of his service medals etc. I'd researched and contacted the military and conducted other research to learn the names of the two ships he'd served on, and obtain all the medals/ribbons he'd earned, as his had been lost many decades ago or never received. He was so deeply moved, awe-struck, and appreciative and misty-eyed for HOURS! Kept telling me how I had NO IDEA how much it meant to him, and that was the best gift he could ever even dream of! Still have his wool navy pants and shirts (called blouses) and his "pea" coat/ jacket. The white cotton uniforms and hat were long gone but I accessed a certified supplier of his white navy hat. I was able to help him into his uniform on veteran's day 5 years ago, (pull-over shirt, and pants with 13 buttons) and I took a number of photos of him! :D Thanks to everyone who served, and those that kept the home-front going in their absence.

[@meganainsworth7905]

Such a heart warming video. Especially to watch on Remembrance day! 🙏

[@GoranMagdic]

As an amateur historian, I very much appreciate the authentic WW2 touches. Keep it up. Great work.

[@jimriffel6969]

"We will remember them." Thanks for that. What a wonderful tribute.

[@mikethompson8712]

I love it Mike. You're paying tribute. Those who have served, like myself, appreciate the effort. Well done.

[@davidf4897]

He's not paying tribute. He's playing soldiers ....badly. The guy is clueless as to how front line troops dug in. There are many many accounts to reference and the idea of wandering around building the type of shelter when you would be moving every day and digging in every night is laughable.

[@rotter7899]

@@davidf4897 I take it that you didn't watch the 1st video, because if you had you would have heard where he got the inspiration to build that foxhole from. Then you might not have made such a negative and disrespectful comment. If you did watch the 1st video then you should listen properly so you wouldn't make such a dumb and ignorant comment.

[@davidf4897]

@@rotter7899 I stand by everything I wrote.

[@rotter7899]

@@davidf4897 👍

[@p_serdiuk]

@@davidf4897 How about static defense? Warfare wasn't mobile all the time, if you're stuck somewhere for a couple of weeks might as well make a good shelter.

[@issapainter7308]

I don't think it matters if you've got all the authentic stuff or not, you've got the spirit of the exercise. I really enjoyed it.

[@Pattern51lover]

Air raid Warden helmet. Nice find. It was “adjustable” but your rope from the center has gone missing. You can easily replace it with a piece of rope or para cord and loop it through the leather pieces. You can also add some padding as the pad in the top has likely become super hard and dried out. A wool sock hat can be tucked up over the whole inside that will add comfort and warmth. Also, your trigger mittens are likely meant to be mitten liners for a heavier canvas/leather winter glove. Please do more of these videos and keep up the good work

[@jonathanherb3752]

I like that lining so much better that what they used for WW1 which is so awkward.

[@Jack_Mehoff7221]

You could tuck a wool sock hat in your butt

[@DragonFangX]

I actually like it when you aren't talking. Not meant as an offense, so much as its just very serene to hear just the sounds of nature and your working in it when you do these builds.

[@outdoorjo6752]

This has the potential to becoming a very interesting series. Nice one. looking forward to seeing how it develops. :o)

[@dustybunny66]

Honestly, he had the potential to start a movie about a soldier being assigned a far out reconnaissance defensive position where he is then cut off from his main force. He is then dealt with the task of having to completely camouflage his surroundings and report every enemy movement while remain as stealthy as possible.

[@georgeb424]

Thank you for your passion and for not forgetting the Veterans. As a USA Cold War veteran, I appreciate it. Lest we Forget.

[@ianbigland4618]

Glad you wore the poppy, enjoyed this prog , black helmet,w for warden,as in dad's army!

[@jonathanbeale3978]

Least we Forget. Lovely touch at the end. Where you poppy with pride folks

[@dbgaming87]

…we shall fight on the beaches, we shall fight on the landing grounds, we shall fight in the fields and in the streets, we shall fight in the hills, we shall never surrender… Brilliant way to show Lest we never forget ❤

[@joeydr1497]

So iconic he’s on the money

[@samson2332]

Its so easy to fall asleep watching your videos. Its calming and very cozy

[@MBwelding]

As a history buff and bushcraft enthusiasts as well I personally love this series I hope it keeps going

[@mattshaffer5935]

Never has so much been owed by so many to so few. Thank you sir.

[@nemisis3006]

War is for the young. Once you get past a certain age sleeping on the ground or raised bed without a pad is hell on your body! Looking forward to more on this series. Thanks! :-D

[@PatientTortoise]

Salute! Enjoyed the memories of my fathers war effort off New Guinea. Thanks from a post war baby boomer.

[@dmitriynesterov4746]

Appreciate you're dedication , soldier! Hats off for the brave in the ground we walk on!

[@Jamesbravo15]

I'm glad we helped yall out. From the U.S. cheers buddy.

[@TheCheshireWanderer]

Well impressed Mick, That helmet is a beauty! On the inside of the rim should be stamped some letters. You'll be able to find out where the helmet was made, and on the inside of the liner will be stamped with the makers too. All very interesting stuff! These last two vids are ranked up there with your best 🇬🇧🌺 we will remember them.

[@air2w245]

The cinema camera effect is excellent. This seems close or as good as movie quality

[@ebony5766]

We will never truly understand the sacrifices these brave, valiant men made for us. Stop giving up our hard fought freedoms. Brilliant series.

[@alundavies8402]

We can understand what our people went through and most of us are still in awe of them and will do what we can to keep our freedom

[@mousetrap7005]

I own an australian one of these coats, its hands down the best purchase ive ever made. I wear it camping and I wear it out to fancy meets, they're made of wool and water resistant and keep you so warm. They're like a big blanket that looks good and you can sleep in, they're so comfy on the trains for big comutes too!

[@rosepsyke]

I think my favorite thing about your videos are the sounds... the rain, your feet crunching the underbrush, the crackling fire, the sound of your hand tools. Sometimes I turn your videos on and just use them as background music. :D

[@terryeasterday580]

I agree, love the sound of wind through the trees.✌🙂👍

[@Dhillon.Adventures]

I love this, this is probably what my great grandfather went through as he marched in European Tundra

[@Den_Watts]

I think that might be an air raid wardens helmet. That’s what the ‘W’ May stand for - Warden

[@falconuruguay4588]

I second this...that appears to be a warden's helmet, appropriately blacked out, with the "w" on the front.

[@MartinAhlman]

I'm thirding this, Warden.

[@nicolabennington203]

I agree air raid warden.

[@Gothtecdotcom]

Looks just like the Wardens hat in Dads army, doesn't it?

[@verdeyenbart]

Agreed, the W was used to indicate Air Wardens. The ARP Act (Air Raid Precaution Act) was passed as early as 1937 already, so it checks out with the date stamps inside. I doubt it will have seen frontline combat, but might have seen the Blitz up close, who knows!

[@makanacole8437]

I love these “reenactment” videos! Keep doing them!

[@chrispe82]

Good job. Lol you actually ate the spam… 😂 I was telling my kids the other day the origins of the word spam. Ordinarily the fox hole would have a small peep hole so that enemy couldn’t sneak up on them. My Great grandpa was home guard in WW1, Grandad fought in the Pacific in WW2 & my dad was in Vietnam, so I appreciate the effort put into the research of this series. If you get in contact with a local reenactment group they can help you get hold of original or replica items.

[@kevinmoore2929]

It should have just slightly larger than a small hole to allow anyone to fire from.

[@shirleylake7738]

Happy Veterans day. My dad a WWII veteran was on an Island in the South Pacific where they were bombed an entire night 109 times. He said you can not dig good fox holes on a beach. He never liked loud noises or music. I saw him hit the fl[r one time when my mom dropped a bunch of baking pans.

[@deehox7167]

Very creative use of your outdoors talent and love of history. A+

[@martijnlangeveld817]

Yes indeed, we will remember them! All those heroes....

[@kxnggrip1561]

Absolutely epic episode! Love the remembrance at the end. Thank you for this recreation.

[@medtech1a]

Very cool. The old vintage WW11 gear. You definitely nailed this one. I Love it.

[@mattyp80]

Great re-enactment Mike! Only a small pointer: they would never have lit a fire as it was getting dark because it would have given their position away!

[@forthwithtx5852]

Wardens are like Honey Badgers. Honey Badgers don’t care...

[@mattyp80]

@@forthwithtx5852 Wardens also wouldn't be in a dug-out..........

[@mackenziedrake]

I wondered about that. Would there be a way to build a fire inside, say in the trench, or would such a setup simply be a cold camp?

[@MinorLG]

@@mackenziedrake I'm sure more entrenched units would have a wood stove, but just the field holes, your options for warming are leaving it in the sun during the day, or crotching it for a couple hours.

[@RaptorJesus]

@@mackenziedrake Depends on what front you were on, when. The Germans weren't exactly performing offensives beyond 44, beyond the Bulge & North Wind anyway, so lighting a fire wasn't too big a deal then.

[@gibsoncook3609]

That wood burned really well☘️🍀

[@TheLoachman]

"I used to have to carry 120 lbs of really heavy kit. Now, I get to carry 120 lbs of really light kit." While, in many cases, individual items have become lighter over the years, more items have been added. Ammunition weight has not changed significantly, and more things need batteries which are changed well before they are depleted.

[@glennbrymer4065]

Lmao!

[@carlpulley1718]

Thinking of my Grandad who was a Royal Marine and my Grandpa who served in the Tank Corp. during WWII.

[@kevinkehlet1543]

I often thought about my granddad who started his time WW2 in North Africa and ended in Germany. His training was interesting to say the least between the initial shortages to his commando training with the OSS Rangers 34th infantry

[@bobmcelroy7289]

Totally enjoy the stepping back in time in order to "feel" and honor the vets from that time. I also enjoy the time period formatted theme of your videos!

[@verasileikis17]

🌺I’m sure that there were young men that you resemble who risked and gave their lives for our freedom, so this video is especially meaningful as we approach November 11th. Their minds would have been hyper focused on survival and also on the day that they’d be returning home to their loved ones. Your videos in this series help us to honour them and appreciate how astoundingly fortunate we are. With the hot and cold running everything we enjoy these days, I’m glad to know that some of those soldiers survived to see the technology, especially in the field of medicine that performing their duty has given us. We are indebted to them for our education, prosperity and stability to name just a bit of what we often take for granted. There are many terrible things in the world today, but when we remember the fallen from the First and Second World War, we can hopefully see our better selves in them.

[@KettleCamping]

Thank you! 🌺

[@Mr.Phoreskin]

Wow! That made me realize I should be more thankful and appreciate.

[@yaymint]

@@Mr.Phoreskin yes you should

[@garymilstead4199]

We should never forget our comforts and freedoms were bought with the blood of our fathers. My Dad served as a gunners mate on a destroyer escort crossing the north Altantic with the convoys to England during WWII.

[@DisgruntledMarineTheGrunt]

I'd just like to thank you for the comment on behalf of all those who Served before me, those I served with, and those who inevitably have served after and say as proud as I am to have been fortunate enough to walk in the shadows of such great men and women I just hope I've honored them and those that didn't come home with dignity, respect, their Sacrifices will never be forgotten! So long as people like you and this KZbin creator are around I know they'll be honored!

[@walterric]

It’s nice to see young people as yourself appreciate what those brave soldiers must have endured. Thank you for taking the time and effort and thank you for sharing.

[@BushcraftHakankarahan]

you are doing great work bro 😎👍👍

[@secretman9120]

Sizde çekin sizin neyiniz eksik , sizde 1. dünya savaşı Türk askerininkini çekin.Bence tutar.

[@vincentprice9156]

"We Will Remember Them" comment at the end really put everything into perspective...Thank You

[@puresklznyc6074]

Genuinely one of my favorite episodes you’ve done! Keep it up. Would love to see after WW2, how another war type scenario would be done on your end and your take recreating some of what they did as well.

[@minicoopertn]

I am a Brit living in the United States and I own a World War 2 Lee Enfield rifle. Someone had sporterized it by cutting down the stock. On a trip to the UK I was able to find an original unissued new replacement stock for the rifle in perfect condition. The whole rifle now looks like it has just been freshly issued. The 303 British ammo is a little expensive but it’s not a rifle I shoot a lot of rounds through.

[@thefighter887]

Loved this, your overall uniform did not look half bad to be honest, the foxhole was well established, you must do more like this! I appreciate this theme, films and movies don't cut it for me when it comes to the authentic reality of waiting in a foxhole. This really gives you a realistic perspective and that is the most important thing of all, imagine trying to sleep in that foxhole in heavy rain conditions, this really makes you think, I hope you do more things like this, it is both historic and educational on many levels!

[@baggiebird71]

Great video and foxhole, my late father was in the BEF in France 1940 and evacuated from Dunkirk. When I was a kid in the 60s he built me a foxhole at the top of the garden to play in , great memories, looking forward to more videos mukka 👍

[@canbonly1970]

Your sniper gloves / mittens are just the liners. They would be much warmer if you had the leather and canvas outer shells that go over the liners. They pull up over your coat cuffs to keep the snow out. I use a pair of those for snowmobiling in -20 degree Fahrenheit weather and they never fail as long as you keep the liners dry. It is also nice to be able to pull your index finger out of the finger hole and put it with the rest of your fingers to keep it warmer. Also great for hunting if that is your thing.

[@TAOutdoors]

Awesome to know! Cheers !

[@frontiersmandavis1857]

I don’t see anything the least bit out of place with this series; seems a perfectly natural Segway to the focus on the outdoors. Looking forward to the next. Thanks.

[@patriciahibbert6139]

Gordon here, I had given a back pack to a grandson of my little woman that was made in WW11 and he just treasures it .He uses it for hunting in the woods, to carry extra gear. And also I gave her oldest son a knife that used on them rifles , And also I got a 22 long rifle in a actual 303 (target) British full weight in all cause I also got 3 of them 303 ten shot rifles still working today. I believe it was called a bayonet not sure but it something That I found in my travels in life. Hey also a general salute to you also for for doing this. Now I see how my late Uncles from sides of the family lived in war 1 & 2 .

[@RC-fu6hg]

Fantastic video. Showing how the men had to make a foxhole. And then to sleep in it overnight. Using the gear was amazing. And at the end when you said we will not forget them. That brought tears to my eyes. I agree we must never forget what history has taught us.

[@Objective-Observer]

I see a Living Historian in the making. I do living history in Texas USA, for the Westward Expansion decades following the Civil War. When you don the historic clothing, spend time in an historic setting with others who are dressed for the era... it is dreamlike for us History Geeks. It does takes us back to that time period, and our imaginations fill in the blanks; the sights, smells, sounds and flavors. When you said, Tins of Food, I knew you'd have a can of beens, and probably Spam. Why didn't you cook the beans and Spam together? It would make both of them taste better, and give you a much more substantial meal. Your temperatures were cool enough to prevent any microbial growth over night, so half for supper and half for breakfast. For those nights on a hard flat surface, I would suggest you prop up your torso on your back pack to put the bulk of your weight on you bum. The position would be more like a hammock, or leaning against a tree.

[@tardismole]

If you have the chance, visit Eden Camp, in Malton, UK. They have reconstrucitons that include the sights, smells and sounds of an air raid. It is epic.

[@huntsman525]

I do F&I living history in MD. and VA. and you are right, the sights and sounds of camp living in period correct gear really fills in the blanks and gives one a small glimpse of what life must have been like 250 years ago.

[@edwardfletcher7790]

It's annoying to open two cans and only use half of each. In cold weather like this it's ok. But in the Pacific theatre it's a really bad idea.

[@Objective-Observer]

@@edwardfletcher7790 Oh, we couldn't do that in the desert southwest, excpet a couple of months in winter. I have no problem with left overs, but I wouldn't be able to eat those beans alone, without severe distress with the GI tract.

[@tardismole]

@@huntsman525 You misunderstand. It's a former POW camp. Not a camping ground. It's a WW2 war museum, with a Blitz reconstruction.

[@ArielleViking]

A really wonderful tribute to our veterans. "Lest we forget". ❤

[@steveowens398]

Hi Mike - This is a great set of episodes. I've read that many of the boys in the trenches made their own crystal radios from bits of material like razor blades and graphite pencils. They also built their own lighters from shell casings. Maybe you could do an episode covering these sorts of things. Keep at it!

[@matthewmuise5138]

who cares

[@jackbusiness7879]

Great idea!

[@fragnshrapnels]

What a legend ! Please keep the WW2 era episodes coming when you are in the mood. Any era is good off course to explore and read upon. That makes your channel fun and relaxing to watch. They also used poncho/tarp, for roof structure on those foxholes. You might be interested in the concept of camouflage. Building camouflaged observation post what recce troops do like snipers. Ghillie suits are are also fun to explore. They come from scottisch gamekeepers and where first used by british army in the second boer war. So much to explore😌😊

[@jamieedwards6721]

I'm no expert but the W is for warden, my guess would be this helmet never saw action on the front line, I think wardens kept people in their homes during blitz raids etc.

[@fin8535]

Yes, that sounds right

[@MrFruitycakes]

yep! i have my grandads wardens helmet and trungeon from WW2. but the W is a proper MOD stencil, not painted.

[@milybanily]

That's right, main work was to keep darken cities warning lights uncovered. So the black colour.

[@private15]

A front line used helmet was probably in a museum or beat up a lot more or cherished by family member.

[@misolgit69]

OI Mainwaring put that light out

[@Stubear22374]

I’m watching this in a solemn mood, wondering how we as humans ended up in this pointless war and all the pointless wars that have been, the lives lost because of some land or some show of power, it was hard to see that many great men lost their lives in the war and many others, thanks for a great watch I’ll sit with my boy and often remind him of the sacrifice of others so he can live in peace today, not all countries have that,

[@annosborne-reed2365]

I know your are gearing up WWII, but there is a book you should read. It's about Tolkien and Lewis, but has a lot of information about WWI. The author really paints a vivid description of what it was like during the war. The book is: A Hobbit, a Wardrobe, and a Great War: How J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis Rediscovered Faith, Friendship, and Heroism in the Cataclysm of 1914-18.

[@squirrel_82]

Mike, I appreciate people like you that remember history and pays homage to those who came before to make our lives better. Unfortunately, here in the states, our history is being erased and or forgotten as the newer and newer generations come. Those who forget history are doomed to repeat it. People ask, "Why are Veterans so salty"? Well, it's because we came home from war realizing how good we have it and how terribly bad it can be and how those in are own society haven't a clue. I will say though that I'm grateful they don't know because that means we did our jobs.

[@bradleyholcombe6114]

This is purely what I have heard from my military friends. This is more akin to field barracks. My understanding is that a foxhole is quite literally a cone shaped hole in the dirt just big enough for you and your gear.

[@hicksadventures256]

My Dad (American) fought in WWII. Loving this series.

[@LESNUE]

Great video!

[@zeldarobinson3382]

I think this a great video on what all our ancestors lived through fighting for our freedom. A great reminder as November 11th approach s and the finger mittens are liners for leather gloves or a heavy wool glove just like your finger gloves ..stay safe

[@RLU-wt8vi]

From the U.S. to the U.K., Thank You so much for another great episode. I appreciate the research you do for your builds, but you left me with questions. How many men would it take to build/stay in that kind of foxhole? How long would it take? Again, Thanks again for sharing your interest, history & the appreciation you have for your servicemen.

[@elizabethharbinpsychicmedium]

That was fantastic.....I too am intrigued with WWII and the bombers missions. Well done, Michael! Brilliant...

[@Nelg230]

BMB on the helmet liner stands for Briggs Motor Bodies who made helmets, ammo boxes, jerry cans, etc. The 39 pattern leather belt wasn't issued to the Home Guard, they mainly used the 1908 pattern belt. The greatcoat was worn over the battledress blouse so will be feel large. You could just paint the Warden's helmet green or brown to make it military and if you were military the facial hair will have to go!

[@nigelwitgunn3406]

I was born in 1959 in Canada to English parents. My father servered in WWII a fact I admired and tried to emulate by joining the Governer Generals Horse Gaurds cadet corp. We were issued WWII surplus Battle Dress as our dress uniform along with modern combat fatigues. Our year end annual inspection was in mid June, when we would parade - indoors - in full Battle Dress except for Great/Trench coat. Many fell in those days, lol, so I know how "warm" they can be. Cheers, great vid.

[@RetroRanter]

This is amazing, haha don't worry about people being mad that you weren't talking, I found that section really relaxing actually. 😂 Which is kind of bad to say considering all the hard work you were doing. Keep up the great work.

[@Hikewyoming]

Just another reason I do so admire and enjoy your channel, Mike. Authentic and Historical, there’s always a sense of honor to your approach and it means a lot.

[@TheTwoFingeredBullFrog]

The "W" stands for warden, I have an identical helmet I once brought as a kid for a fiver off the original owner at a car boot.

[@data24p85]

Guten Tag, I'm from Germany and the shovel is the old entrenching tool of the Bundeswehr. I appreciate that you use this shovel, it's also my favorite. Grüße aus Deutschland

[@xGSFxGoat]

I believe the 6 3/4 printed in the helmet is the head-strap size. I remember the size of my headdress was large enough that I could fit the width of a letter-size paper in it when it was folded flat, so it would make sense that 6 3/4 would be quite small and feels like a headache to wear.

[@davemartin1534]

Yep in the US hat sizes are particularly on all felt hats. 6 7/8 that's what my granddad wore and is a rather small size here in the US I can just imagine how that helmet would fit me since I wear 7 3/8

[@1964DAVODAVO]

Great that your remembering WW2 my Dad was in the RAF and my grandad was in the Home Guard in our village in Co Durham.

[@chops1911]

The belt was worn as outer wear to hold a canteen and a host of other gear that was used in various duties depending on your job and there was a different belt for the trousers and frequently the duty belt had a shoulder strap setup on it

[@chops1911]

They also make period accurate strap replacements for re-enactments

[@casinodelonge]

Yes, I'm assuming this. possibly with the buckles facing up to fasten to a shoulder strap arrangement to mount field gear. Not "trousers - for the holding up of" as it were....

[@koreanjesus3432]

My brother collects World War 1 & World War 2 British weaponry. I watched this video wearing a brodie helmet & holding a No4 Mk1 Lee-Enfield with the Webley within arms reach. Awesome episode!

[@Doughboy842]

That looks so much fun. As someone who did WW2 reenactment for 15 years. You did a good job at it. The helmet and gear and coat is a nice touch. You got that very homeguard/ Warden esque look going. I could suggest sites like soldier of fortune in the UK that sells reproduction and some original gear and from other periods. Also Epic Militaria does the same things too i believe. I think there's more vendors out there but have a look around. Anyway. That was a good video to watch.

[@SheenMr]

Great video, love the ww2 theme. The “W” on the helmet was worn by air raid wardens in the UK, they walked round the towns and cities at night making sure everyone was complying with blackout rules.

[@fresh7s]

I enjoyed this type of video! Everyone should do this once in their life to bring more appreciation to how people used to live. Constrictive criticism: since you were doing a WWII time period wouldn’t it be better to light the lantern with a lit stick from the fire so you could conserve a match?

[@MacEstelle]

Well done. Thank you so much for acknowledging what those soldiers went through

[@alfthecat6342]

Pretty sure the “W” stands for Warden as in ARP warden

[@stevedilts6276]

Nice work, please continue. Other viewers pointed out the W is for warden. A shelter half extension to the foxhole would give more dry space to cover the bed. If available, rocks warmed by the fire could give some sleeping comfort on a cold night. Carry on soldier.

[@saintpoli6800]

How would you combat snowfall while within a foxhole? Phenomenal videos, look forward to further additions and to learn more of these nitty gritty details

[@JohnWick-nn2cu]

I think combatting snowfall would be at the bottom of the list. Same with his bench/bed. Foxholes were not meant for comfort

[@VainerCactus0]

Snow would help with camouflage.

[@stephenking78]

A special video, interesting as usual but especially Pertinent to all who served. You did them proud Mike, loved the nice touch of black & white to give us a glimpse into the past. We shall remember them.❤️🇬🇧

[@northernembersoutdoors1045]

I enjoyed this episode very much. A serious question about the rain, if it did rain would your legs of got wet, would you just have to curl up a bit or is there a bit more shelter to build, or would it be fine. Many thanks.

[@arolimichel9998]

Herzlichen Glückwunsch zur Fertigstellung und ersten Übernachtung in deinem neuen Unterschlupf, Dein Outfit ist Mega, am besten gefällt mir der tolle Helm 👌❤👌