(Radio Iowa) – A group called the “Gold Star Living History Detachment” tries to add more life to the exhibits at the Iowa Gold Star Museum at Camp Dodge in Johnson. David Mallake of Norwalk says they wear vintage military uniforms to Museum events and can answer questions. He says it is one thing to see something that is on a mannequin or on a display, and it is very different to seeing it actually being worn.

He says they can interact with the public in a way that can educate them and teach them about what the soldiers and the Marines from any era of history actually went through. Mallake says they have ten to 12 members who offer a very realistic look at the equipment and uniforms.

The uniforms and equipment used come from the participant’s private collections.