35th Infantry Division Belgium

A living history and study group of the US 35th Infantry Division

Who We Are

The '35th Infantry Division Belgium' is more than a study group. We try to keep the memory alive of those who fought in the 35th Infantry Division during World War 2. We try to experience how it was by representing a U.S. soldier during World War 2.

We try to learn as much as possible about the history of the 35th Infantry Division in World War 2 and the U.S. soldier by reading, by doing research and fieldresearch, by contact with veterans and their family, by several other contacts interior and abroad, and by living history (we can try to learn how it was 65 years ago).

Every soldier who ever fought in the 35th Infantry Division will not be forgotten and they will always be remembered by our group in Belgium.

Recently, we received some reactions on what we do:

Another reaction from Simon Harrold (UK) (April 2010) (http://www.lerenfort.fsnet.co.uk)

"An excellent portrayal once more with so much effort put into the photographs and portraying the opposing forces so well. Once again the photos are excellent and to a high standard as I have come to expect from your guys. Well done to you all!" (Pictures: http://www.35thinfantrydivisionbelgium.be/og.html)

A reaction from Simon Harrold (UK) for our cooperation in one of his projects (November 2009):

"Guys, what can I say. Absolutely outstanding work!! Brilliant!! (...) Thanks once again for doing such a professional and accurate portrayal for me." (http://www.lerenfort.fsnet.co.uk/page6N.htm)

A reaction from Mrs. Kathryn Frantz, widow of SSgt. Carl J. Frantz (137th Inf. Regt.) after her trip to Normandy (July 2009):

"Several weeks prior to our trip, we began an e-mail acquaintance with Thomas Vancraeynest, a young 35th Division re-enactor from Belgium. Thomas, along with two other members of his group, Kris and Jonathan, attended many of the ceremonies (65th Anniversary of the liberation of Saint-Lô) and spent much time "in the field" doing research and taking photographs. Even with our busy schedule, we were able to spend a good amount of time with these special young men and we were impressed with the depth of knowledge they possess about World War II and specifically the 35th Division. Even though they are part of the re-enactor group, the focus of their energy is research, gaining knowledge and honoring the liberators of this area in France. (...) We will certainly never forget them."

A reaction from Brigade-General David C. Petersen, current 35th Infantry Division, after his trip to Normandy (July 2009):

"It's a shame that three young men know more about our history then we do! (...) Thanks for everything you do to keep the memory of our unit alive."

A reaction from Major Kevin J. Hynes, current 35th Infantry Division after his trip to Normandy (July 2009):

"On a personal level, I want to thank you for all that you are doing to help out the veterans and families. It is extremely heartwarming to stand and watch as you and your two counterparts worked with the families to explain what their veteran did in the war. Unfortunately, all too few Americans today understand what happened there 65 years ago, so it was especially interesting to see young men like yourselves take such an active interest in our military heritage. I doubt that family will ever forget what you three honorable gentlemen did for them."

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Contact: 35thinfantrydivision@gmail.com