Living History: WWII reenactment comes to life in Warren County
WWII Reenactment celebrates seventh year with Living History
BOWLING GREEN, Ky. (WNKY) – The sounds of gunfire and the rumble of tanks echoed across Phil Moore Park in Warren County over Memorial Day weekend, but not for a real battle, rather a reenactment of a real battle. Nearly 200 reenactors from more than a dozen states gathered for Operation Anvil, a World War II reenactment event designed to bring history to life.
Hosted by the nonprofit Honoring Our Heroes, the annual event aims to educate the public through immersive “Living History.” Reenactors wore authentic uniforms, camped in replica field tents, and used military equipment to portray the realities of combat and daily life during World War II.
“This is a living history event, and it’s designed to teach people about the horrors of war,” said Ron Cummings, executive director of Honoring Our Heroes. “World War II shaped the world.”
The event included large-scale battle simulations, weapons demonstrations, and interactive exhibits. Spectators had the chance to walk through encampments and speak directly with reenactors portraying both Allied and Axis soldiers. Organizers also held a medal ceremony to honor veterans from multiple generations, a solemn moment of reflection and remembrance.
Many of the reenactors have participated in the event for years, with some first attending as spectators in the past before donning uniforms themselves.
“It’s important to us to teach people at a young age,” Cummings said. “So it’s it’s just to inspire them just make sure they understand that, you know, war is ugly, War is tough. A lot of lives were lost. But the whole point is, is to let them know that the ultimate sacrifice they paid actually paved the way for us to have the prosperity and life that we have today.”
Operation Anvil has grown steadily since its inception and now stands as one of the largest WWII reenactment events in the region. Organizers say they’re already planning for next year’s return around the same time, Memorial Day weekend.
For more information on the event or the Honoring our Heroes Inc Organization, join their Facebook group.
