Nazi uniforms at 1940s festival branded 'frightening and offensive' as row breaks out
A row broke out at a 1940s re-enactment festival when an attendee challenged a group of men dressed in Nazi uniforms
A row broke out at a 1940s re-enactment festival when an attendee challenged a group of men dressed in Nazi uniforms.
Around 25,000 people embarked on the annual war-themed event in Norfolk with many dressing up for the occasion.
Among those in historical attire was a group of men in Nazi-era German uniforms, including some with SS markings on their collars and badges featuring the “death’s head” symbol and swastikas.
Witnesses said the men were confronted by others who shouted that they were not welcome.
Among those dressed up was a group of men in Nazi-era German uniforms, including some with SS markings on their collars and badges featuring the 'death’s head' symbol and swastikas
Norfolk Constabulary said the group were escorted away from the area after one man was reportedly assaulted.
The men, who are part of the Eastern Front Living History Group, said the argument was an isolated incident and have defended wearing the uniforms.
A festival spokesman said German uniforms are allowed as long as they don't “promote the Nazis”.
He added that the group was there to “commemorate the German people” and the incident was a misunderstanding.
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Mike Keller, who lost family members in the Holocaust, said the sight was "offensive".
“It was a lovely family atmosphere and very friendly, when suddenly from nowhere there were 10 to 15 men dressed in authentic SS uniform, literally marching in unison,” he told The Times.
“It was deeply offensive. These men were not milling about and blending in among people. They were marching and making a demonstration. It was frightening.
“My father was from a Jewish family who lost his parents and brothers and sisters in death camps.
A festival spokesman said German uniforms are allowed as long as they don't 'promote the Nazis'
PA
"He was fortunate to escape with my uncle via Kindertransport, so having to see this with my son was mortally offensive and a disgraceful act.”
A spokesman for the Eastern Front Living History Group said: “We represent the western European nations that fought against Stalin and communism during World War II.
"We were wearing Waffen SS infantry uniforms displaying national shields and insignia of the countries portrayed. Not one member of the group portrayed a German.
“The uniforms were supplied by Germany, as were the weapons, to the foreign volunteers from 1941 to 1945. They’re as close to authentic as you can get.“As a group we’ve been attending the Sheringham 1940s weekend for four or five years running and never had any problems before.”