I began reenacting in 2013 with the 5th Ranger Battalion, Dog Company group. I've progressed from showing up at events, overwhelmed, to guiding and training new members. For the past few years, I've taken on the role of XO for the Provisional Ranger Group at D-Day Conneaut. If I'm not reenacting with the Rangers, you can usually find me in a replacement depot or message center with the 12th Army Group Headquarters reenacting group.

Long before reenacting, I had the chance to visit historic Williamsburg, VA on a school trip. The hands-on experience with the site and its people have stuck with me ever since, and I strive to bring that "hands-on history" feel to WWII reenacting. One can read about World War II or watch a documentary, but being able to see the uniforms and smell the canvas brings a new dimension to it all. I strive to replicate that experience at events, and Operation Homecoming provides a great place to do so.

I'm thankful to be a part of this great event, and look forward to working with the staff and reenactors to ensure everyone has a safe, educational, and fun time. 

See you on the front!

Daniel Gill Showcase Coordinator

Hello, everyone! My name is Daniel Gill, and I’m proud to serve as an Allied reenactor and staff member for Operation Homecoming. I’ve been reenacting since 2021 and portray an officer of the Monuments, Fine Arts, and Archives program—a group dedicated to protecting and recovering cultural treasures during WWII.

Much of my historical research focuses on the wartime plunder of art and its rightful return to original owners. Through this unique lens, I aim to shed light on the lesser-known, yet deeply meaningful, aspects of World War II history.

I also coordinate the Lantern Tours at Operation Homecoming. If you have any questions about the tours or any part of the event, feel free to reach out—I’m always happy to help.

Dan Younkin - German Commander

I live in Liberty Center, Ohio.  I am relatively new to reenacting (2024) and I am a member of the 9th SS Hohenstaufen. My passion for the era draws on a lifelong fascination with the conflict and on my own German ancestry.   I volunteered to be the German commander so I could both assist and learn more about what it takes to make an event run smoothly, be appealing to reenactors, and most of all, enjoyable! 

The proximity of this event to my home makes it especially meaningful, and I am committed to helping it flourish. I look forward to welcoming you and sharing a memorable weekend as we bring history to life.

I stay active in my  community through leading, volunteering and supporting events. I enjoy meeting new people and learning about things where ever I go. 

I am excited to be a part of this organization because the events are interactive and can be enjoyed by everyone. From history buffs and action fans to those who just want to get outdoors, shop the vendors or try a new food from one of the mobile cuisine options.

Hope to see you soon!

Angel Mathews - Vendor & Food Coordinator

David Anscomb Volunteer

I am the Commanding Officer for the U.S.S. Michigan SSGN727 Division of the United States Naval Sea Cadet Corps. I’ve been an Officer with the program for over 15 years. I also have the privilege of being a USNSCC Small Arms Instructor, Concept Combatives / Defensive Tactics Instructor and Master at Arms Training Officer.

The United States Naval Sea Cadet Corps (USNSCC) is an official Youth Leadership Development, Vocational and Mentorship program of the U.S. Navy and U.S. Coast Guard. We are a non-profit organization with a mission to educate America’s young men and women (ages 10 – 17) in naval traditions with hands-on experiential training occurring on naval bases, other military installations and in local communities in order to instill the highest ideals of honor, respect, service, and commitment. The U.S.S. Michigan Division is home based out of Gaylord Michigan. For more information on the program please visit our websites.