Living History

Living History Detachment (LHD) Mission

The mission of LHD, under the sponsorship of the Parris Island Historical and Museum Society, is the presentation and preservation of Marine Corps history by educating Marine recruits and the general public. This is done through living history exhibits that allows the target audience to go beyond seeing artifacts on display by interacting with the presenters.

History of the LHD

LHD started in 2004 by two volunteers who wanted to give back to the Marine Corps by improving the historical program provided to recruits. The concept was to give a 20-30 minute presentation by living history “interpreters” complete with period-correct uniforms, equipment and weapons. In addition to history classes for recruits, the Detachment participates with the Recruit Training Battalions on the “Crucible,” and the “Eagle, Globe and Anchor” ceremony. LHD has been able to provide recruit presentations on at least 10 weekends a year, as well as participate in other local and out-of-state events.

LHD does presentations to Marine Corps recruits, Active/Reserve units, recruiting stations, Marine Corps associations, Depot ceremonies, and to National and State parks; travel exhibits and historical demonstrations for schools, air shows, re-enactments, and parades; and provides consultants, tour guides and narrators for the Depot’s Command Museum.

LHD has been the centerpiece Marine representation for the largest World War Two event in the country conducted annually the first weekend in June at the Mid-Atlantic Air Museum in Reading, PA. The Detachment has been the subject of five news articles and part of a New York Times video article.

In 2007 the founding member of LHD received a Commanding General’s Certificate of Commendation for his contribution to recruit training and recruiting. Also in 2007, LHD was recognized for their efforts by Patriot’s Point in Charleston, SC, and was appointed the official Marine Detachment for the USS Yorktown Museum.

In 2009, the Detachment was recognized nationally by the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation and was the recipient of the Colonel Magruder Award for excellence in depicting Marine Corps history.

Membership to the Detachment is not limited to Marines “out of uniform,” and is made up of individuals with diverse military experience. A common factor among its members is the desire and dedication to “do it right,” honor veterans and pass along Marine heritage in a unique way. LHD has Marine Corps equipment, uniforms and weapons spanning the 20th century so that interested individuals are not initially required to purchase their gear to participate. Members of the Detachment are required to join the Historical Society.

For more information contact Eric Junger at (843) 263-3290