“Fall In”: WWII Basic Training Experience

Fall in, recruits! Step back in time and experience what life was like for young Americans training to serve in World War II. In this immersive, hands-on program, you’ll watch an actual WWII training video, then you’ll take part in a simulated WWII Drill and Ceremonies guided by museum staff in period uniforms. Can you keep up with the fast-paced training like new recruits did in the 1940s? Learn how to march in formation and follow drill commands. Along the way, you’ll discover how teamwork, discipline, and determination helped prepare thousands of young people for life in the military during one of the most important times in world history.

This program brings history to life through movement and interactive learning—perfect for those who want to explore the past in an engaging and unforgettable way.

Age Requirement: 12 years old and up

Location: Veterans Memorial Hall, 29 Pond Lane, Southampton, NY 11968

Duration: Approximately 1 hour

Uniform of the Day: Comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes

No prior knowledge needed—just bring your curiosity and energy!

This program involves marching, facing movements, hand and arm movements and other light activity. But, not to worry, there will not be any push-ups!

Led by Tim Van Wickler, our Director of Operations & Programs. Tim currently serves in the New York Army National Guard as an Aviation Operations Staff Sergeant; he deployed to Iraq, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia in 2022–2023.

This program is free, but space is limited. RSVP is encouraged.

This program complements the Southampton History Museum’s new pop-up exhibition, Homefront to Battlefront: Southampton during World War II, which shares the stories of the men and women from our local community who played a role in this historic war. On view at Southampton Village’s historic Veterans Hall from May 24–November 29, 2025 (Saturdays only, 11 am–4pm).

The Southampton History Museum is especially grateful to the Village of Southampton, the Village Commission on Veterans Patriotic Events (aka Combined Veterans Organization), and the Southampton Cultural Center for making this pop-up exhibition possible during the restoration of Rogers Mansion.

The Southampton History Museum’s free public programs are made possible, in part, by a Suffolk County Omnibus Grant and by funding from the residents of the Southampton Union Free School District. Thanks to the generous support of our community, admission to all of the museum’s historic sites and exhibitions is also free to the public.