To bring WWII history to life, call in the cavalry Local re-enactors show how soldiers lived with display at Heath Farm BY LAUREN PIRO Correspondent ERIC SUCAR staff Middletown's Christopher Moore answers questions from visitors at the World War II re-enactment event in Middletown on Saturday. MIDDLETOWN - For Dr. William Anania, a podiatrist by profession, life is more than providing the community with medical care. It is also about recognizing and honoring American history, as he and the other members of the 102nd Cavalry Squadron World War II Reenactment Unit did Saturday at the Heath Farm. Heath Farm, located on Harmony Road, has often played host to local historical displays and events. The World War II event is always looked forward to by its organizers, who try to present it annually. Presenting a free living history event, the cavalry - which acts in dedication to the Army's real 102nd Cavalry of WWII - displayed the life of a soldier during this period complete with many authentic and replicated pieces from the era. Visitors were welcomed to explore a GI encampment site, where the camouflage tents, cavalry recon jeeps, weaponry and medical equipment took them decades back in time. From the stationery on the field desks to the pictures in soldier footlockers, history that affects every American came to life. Anania and fellow members of the Middletown-based re-enactment cavalry, which includes military veterans themselves, dressed in period military uniforms and walked visitors through the scenes. Perfectly created with men portraying paratroopers and period music playing in the background, they set the stage for veterans' stories and the genuine community interest they fostered. The cavalry gratefully recognized the help it had from WWII veterans in making their presentation rightfully and fully display history. "They give us their stories and help us create our impression," Anania said. "It is a good exchange of history." All events held by the re-enactment unit are meant to educate the community while honoring those they portray. More than a hobby for many of the group, the cavalry knows the significance behind their displays. "We do this kind of stuff to honor the military veterans," Anania said, noting how many local veterans attend and appreciate the presentations. The cavalry does several other events through out the year, including work with the Boy Scouts as well as presentations at local schools. They are also involved with World War II studies at Brookdale Community College. In the future, the group hopes to continue its events as a way to remind and enlighten the community about WWII. For more information, visit the cavalry's Web site at www.102ndcavalrygroup.com.