Kyle Shearer
Allied Commander
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!
Tyler Tidmore Soviet Commander
You may recognize me from other events you’ve attended—I’ve been active in the reenactment community since 2006. I proudly serve as the Soviet Commander at several events, including Auglaize Village, Operation Homecoming, and Lauer Farms 1944. I also lead the Soviet reenactment unit Gruppa Druzhina.
My passion for history spans multiple eras. Over the years, I’ve participated in a wide range of impressions, including the American Civil War, World War I, World War II (Allied and Axis), the 1930s Civilian Conservation Corps, and the Vietnam War.
If you see me at an event, don’t hesitate to say hello—I always enjoy talking with fellow reenactors and visitors. I’m honored to be part of the staff for this event and look forward to working alongside everyone involved.
Daniel Gill Lantern Tours
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.
Nick “Franz” Belcher German Commander
Known in the living history community as “Franz,” I have been an active World War Two reenactor since 2008 and proudly serve with the 2nd SS Das Reich group. My fascination with the past began in childhood as I watched Civil War reenactments, and it grew into full participation when I entered my teens and discovered the World War Two hobby. Seventeen years on, my enthusiasm has only strengthened. I am grateful that my children now share this pursuit with me, ensuring that the lessons and legacy of history continue to inspire future generations.
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.
Grace Jaeger Engagement Coordinator
Grace serves as the Historical Frontline Events Engagement Coordinator for Operation Homecoming in Wauseon Ohio, and Echoes of Valor at Auglaize Village in Defiance Ohio. Born in 2002, Grace grew up in Muskegon Michigan, surrounded by history, and continues to surround herself with history to this day. From being homeschooled, to attending Cornerstone University in Grand Rapids, she relentlessly pursued education, and a thorough knowledge of history. Her passion for history led her to working for the Lakeshore Museum Center in Muskegon, namely at the Hackley and Hume Historic Sites as an Interpreter. She also volunteers at the LST 393 Veterans Museum located in Muskegon.
Throughout Grace’s childhood, she was fascinated by WWll history in particular, as she was told of her great-grandfathers in the war. One being in the Army Air Force, and the other in the Naval Air Force, she loved listening to their stories secondhand from her family, encouraging her interest in WWll. Her grandfather, John Jaeger, was a French-Indian War reenactor, as well as a Michigan State Trooper. He began his own reenacting group, initially named Jaeger’s Rangers, now known as Jaeger’s Battalion. Grace remembers attending one of his reenactments when she was very young, appreciating the immersive experience, and wanting to continue pursuing more of those experiences in the future. Grace was recently recruited to the 506th Airborne Unit as a medic, following in her grandfather’s footsteps.
Working at the Historic Sites and the LST 393 museum, Grace is always surrounded by history. But she has another passion besides history. With both of her great-grandfathers serving in the military, and her grandfather as a first responder, she was raised with a deep respect for our nation’s heroes. She has a deep appreciation for connecting with veterans and hearing their stories, honoring their legacy, and showing them the gratitude that they deserve. Not only her love for history, but her respect for our nation’s military and first responders is what prompted her to volunteer at the LST, and help coordinate these events.
Honoring and serving America’s greatest heroes is something Grace continues to pursue with passion, and she hopes to make a positive impact not only on the veterans in her own community, but throughout the nation. Soon after being recruited to the 506th Airborne Unit, Grace was given the opportunity to serve as the Engagement Coordinator for the Historical Frontline Events. It is a privilege to preserve our country’s history, to honor the Greatest Generation, and protect the legacy of those who fought bravely on our behalf.
