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American World War II re-enactor and German veteran strike up a friendship

A Fayetteville re-enactor who dresses as a German soldier in World War II has found a friend who actually served in the German military during the war.

Jason Mixell met 87-year-old Gustau Rewwer in December 2010. At the time, Mixell was putting on a display of his German military artifacts.

The two got acquainted and have kept in touch. Mixell even took the veteran to a re-enactment of the Battle of the Bulge at Fort Indiantown Gap.

Rewwer (pronounced like "never"), who served in the German Air Force, said he was delighted to meet Mixell, and was more than surprised to learn of the young man's interest in the German military.

"I was dumbfounded," Rewwer said. "He knew a couple of words in German. I was wondering how he knew me."

When Rewwer saw Mixell in the German army uniform, he was shocked.

"I was right back in the military again, 70 years ago. But I was in the German Air Force. What amazes me is that he has such interest in it."

Mixell noted his admiration for Rewwer and said he was learning a lot from the veteran.

"I try to take him with me as much as I can," he said. "He's teaching me how to learn German and he helps with my uniform. He lets me know if I'm wearing something incorrectly. This is living history. What he shares with me enhances my presentations." ...
Read entire article at Püblic Opinion Online (PA)