14/12/2025
Once again, the fields near Austerlitz brought together friends from many countries and generations, united by a common passion for history. After returning home and letting the mud dry on our boots, we would like to share a few impressions from this year’s event.
Before the battle itself, members of our unit undertook the traditional week-long march to the battlefield of Austerlitz, starting in Olomouc. Over the course of more than 100 km on foot in historical uniforms and equipment, they followed in the footsteps of the original soldiers.
This year marked the 220th anniversary of the battle; therefore, the re-enactment was larger than in previous years – 1,800 participants from 20 countries around the world, nearly 100 horses, and 16 cannons.
Voltigeurs of the 18th Line took part in the battle as part of a united battalion together with our French comrades-in-arms, under the command of Nicolas Salvetat. True to the historical role of voltigeurs, we opened the battle fighting as skirmishers, facing the Austrian Jaegers.
Aside from being a milestone anniversary, this year’s battle was also the final participation of Mark Schneider, who, after 20 years, is leaving the role of Napoleon, which he has faithfully portrayed in previous re-enactments here and elsewhere.
Our thanks also go to Austerlitz.org for organising the event and for once again giving us the honour of taking part in the battle.
Finally, we would like to thank Jan Štábl - Reenactment photography for capturing these moments in such wonderful photographs, allowing us to relive Austerlitz 2025 long after the last volley has faded.
