"The Originals"  |
The 5th Battalion, AIF is a reenactment unit dedicated to preserving the history of Australia in the Great War (World War One). The unit is part of the Great War Association, an umbrella organization of World War I reenactors on the East Coast. The Association sponsors two national reenactments each year at the CPL Caesar Krauss Memorial Site near Newville, PA.
The 5th Battalion was founded in 1988 by Phil Schreier. It was the first, and remains the largest Australian WWI reenactment unit in the U.S. The unit’s first event was Spring 1989 with 5 members, Phil, Guy Gormley, Mark Keefe, Scott Rall, and Nat Sooy. These are considered the "Original" members of the 5th. The "Originals" play an important part in Australian WWI history. They were the founders, the heart and soul of every Australian unit. All members of the unit, regardless of rank gave them deference. Today, the unit continues to grow with approximately 20 members on the rolls. We are equipped as a standard infantry platoon, with rifle grenades, one VIckers machine gun and one Lewis gun in support. We portray an Australian unit on the Western Front, 1916-1918. We also make occasional forays to Gallipoli, Egypt, and Palestine
The unit was founded on the spirit of "Mateship". It is an organization of friends and friends of friends. We have strict authenticity standards and a set of unit bylaws that govern the organization and function of the unit. Having said that, unit politics is a very low priority. If you enjoy politicking over fighting this unit is not for you. We strive to present the most accurate impression of an Australian platoon available, have lots of fun, and give the dastardly Hun a good thrashing.
Guy Gormley currently commands the unit. Unit dues are $20.00 per year. We publish a newsletter, The Flaming Tent , about three times per year on an irregular schedule. In addition to the three national events in PA, we take part in various living histories, ceremonies, and regional reenactments each year. See the published schedule. The Australian impression is one of the most unique and fun impressions available in Great War. The Aussies were fighting, not parade ground soldiers. Discipline was by force of personality, and they only saluted and followed leaders they respected. The AIF was the only all volunteer force on the Western Front. The fighting reputation of the AIF was second to none, and the enemy feared them. The AIF made up less then 10% of the British/ Commonwealth manpower in France and Belgium, but in 1918 they were responsible for almost half of the ground taken and casualties inflicted. We strive to (and do) maintain that reputation. If you are willing to adhere to these standards, and be at the forefront of the assault, contact the unit commander, or e-mail us for more information.
