What do you blame?

Happy New Year all!

Have you ever wondered what started your addiction to collecting 'green stuff' - especially the US aspect to it all?

In my case, there are the usual suspects: Airfix, Sunday afternoon war films, Commando comics, etc. but I think I have finally nailed it - it was Action Man (GI Joe's British cousin) who has to take full responsibility!
I'm sure you'll understand (..and have a laugh) after watching this GI Joe ad:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hQ1P5d6IMq8

...any other possible causes that I've missed?

Don't blame it on the sunshine, don't blame it on the moonlight, don't blame it on the good times, blame it on action man?? Doesn't have the same ring to it bud!

Nope, but the clip jogged my memory as to the first bit of kit I ever brought (aged about 14), which was a US canteen and cover - just 'cos I remembered it from the toy. Then soon after, the local surplus store had a Garand belt and an M1 helmet for sale; which I had to buy for similar reasons...
So in my case at least, it was all his fault. He's guilty as charged m'lud!

Yep, Action Man, toy guns, green plastic soldiers and Sunday afternoon war movies(remember those), all drove me to join the army and reenacting is just an extension of that. All these and more made me try our hobby but the friends I've made have kept me coming back

I have a fetish for dead mens old clothes.....

In all honesty it has festered away in the back of my mind forever, only it has seriously gained momentum after meeting you lot. Thanks, it's your fault!!