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SUNDAY SOLDIERS

Every weekend, thousands of British hobbyists converge in empty fields to dig trenches, erect tents, gas up their tanks, and stage battles from Normandy to North Africa. These are Britain's Sunday Soldiers. World War II is still very much a part of Britain's collective consciousness, and the act of reenactment is deeply personal. Many wear uniforms that belonged to their fathers or grandfathers. Others reenact as specific veterans with whom they've corresponded. While it is a hobby for most, it's an all-consuming one; summer weekends are devoted to loading up trailers and trucks with huge amounts of gear and stepping into the past. Most of all, WWII reenactors are looking to commemorate the deadliest war in human history. 

In keeping with the reenactors' ethos, these photos were produced with a period twin-lens reflex camera. 

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