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10/7/23 - Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta - Day 1 Sunrise 80th TK troop, 35th for the year Day 1 of AIBF!!! Day 1 of waking up at 2am to meet at 3am. But it's fun! Right? We had an incredible turnout. I believe there were 72 there from all four clubs (501st, RL, MM, and GA) including handlers. I'm standing next to ARC Trooper Jesse with the arrow pointing at my bucket. I mean, in a crowd like this even Darth Maul is kinda hard to find right off. We had troopers. We had pilots. We had Mandos. We even had rebels. (I think this is my fav selfie of the whole 8 day event) Regardless of our club affiliations and belief in the Force, we were all united in one purpose - the security of Vader and Yoda. Vader ascending to the clouds. Once the balloons were up, we were allowed a break. If only the suit had a recycler in it...

Greetings all. My name is Tom Tilmon, I was already a member of the Carolina Garrison as DS-74759 TFA Kylo Ren. My ultimate goal was to be a stormtrooper, although, I'm a bit too big to be a TK. I'm 6'3" 240#......so fitting in armor was difficult and required a lot of shimming! I have had this kit for 4 years, traded a MPP Lightsaber for it to a trooper that built an Anovos Kit. Thing sat in the closet in boxes needing trimming and assembly for years. But, I finally got my kit built. I would now love to build another one to Centurion or EIB standards, and turn this one into a TD. But that will have to wait until after my BOBF Mando, Shoretrooper. Both of which are in the works. PS, I also own a lightsaber company called: Megtooth Sith Sabers. i was one of the first to innovate neopixels in lighsabers, as well as using open source electronics, and helped bring about "smoothswing" implementation/testing in open source boards. I built an E-11 with a Proffieboard in it, posted in FISD, didn't get much of a reaction, but I think its pretty cool! At any rate, I'm proud to be a member with you all, and I'm finally living the dream of being a stormtrooper, which I also kind of am in real life......I am the FUZZ. PS: I got to troop my TK with 501st Legion Founder, Albin Johnson (TK-210) in August at Soda City Comicon. Albin is in my Garrison, but it was pretty cool meeting him! Check out this link: Youtube Short with Albin Johnson! Live video of my E-11 in action! Me on the left, this picture I think shows how big I am compared to people. I'm almost as tall as the wookie on stilts! Ha.

10/8/23 - Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta - Day 2 Sunrise 81st TK troop, 36 for 2023 Day 2 - everyone was a little less than full powered. I didn't even find a full group photo for the event, just this one with the 501st only. We had some Rebels, Mercs, and GA in attendance as well, but less than 72. In the 60s I think. BTW, 72 for the previous day was very near a garrison all time record. I think we were 3-4 short from the most attended DRG event of all time. It was quite a party. Day 2 was still great! Just less of a party. This is a GA member!!! Ace (I think this is Ace) and his dad modified his small TK over a couple evenings and he night troop'd like a pro! Getting ready to march in. That's a flood lamp in the distance, not the sunrise. Still about an hour before sunrise. I spent most of this event helping guard the crown line (the big line at the top of the balloon on the right side of this shot) and keep the crowd safe. The lines can move around a lot and clothesline people quite nicely. That's why the troopers are here, in fact - to help the balloons. A couple hours of crown line work with my VERY LOUD TRamp chest speaker deserved a crowd selfie. "Move along" indeed.

[44] Masquerade Serenade Concert Series - Tompkins HS (10.26.23) Sent from my SM-G998U using Tapatalk

The new home for Night Troopers as seen in the Disney+ series Ahsoka This thread is for the creation of the CRL for this costume, please keep all discussion relevant to the main goal.

Roger that, i'll check that out when it arrives if it's not a lot to do, i don't know how it has been assembled. Recibido, le echaré un ojo cuando me llegue, no se si tendré que liar mucho o no como está montado.

Yes I have elastic from the forearm to bicep, much like the OTTK just thinner and on the rear so they aren't noticed.

Yeah, that's one I'll never forget. Snake in the helmet is FAR far worse than a snake on a plane.

Love it all, dude. So good. Also, SNAKE IN THE HELMET?!?! No sir! Nope. NOPE. I’m not even scared of snakes, but I would have freaked the heck out in such a confined space. Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Awesome !! Easy approval

Updated

Below is an amended R1 TK CRL, I have ommitted items like the batton and Pauldron and some blasters that were not seen in use in the Ahsoka series . Required Costume Components The following costume components are present and appear as described below. Helmet Traps (trapezoids on dome of helmet) and tears (area beneath the corners of eye lenses) are gray. Rear traps and tears have engraved vertical black lines. Lenses can be flat material, green in color, sufficiently dark enough to obscure the costumer's eyes. The “ear” bars are gray or painted gray, with the largest bar oval cutout painted black. Frown is painted gray and does not leave the teeth area. The space between the 8 teeth is hollow and backed with Black or Dark grey wire screen mesh. Tube stripes are medium blue, numbering 12 per side. The stipes are straight, not curved like ANH. Vocoder (vertically ribbed chin detail) is painted black. Aerators/Hovi mix tips (cylinders on either side of the vocoder) have a black exterior and silver in color screen mesh. Tears and traps may not be hand-painted. Tube stripes are recessed, and the recessed section painted blue or backed by blue mesh. Note: The helmet is accurate in detail and proportion to official references. Many commercially available helmets or those considered disproportionate in size or shape are ineligible. The Black Series helmet is approvable if modified to meet the level 1 CRLs. Light to medium weathering as per reference images. Cracks may be painted on surface in metalic gold paint. OPTIONAL Level two certification (if applicable): Lenses have a very slight curve and are convex in style. Flat lenses and ANH style bubble lenses are not permissible. Rank bar area on ear must be of the correct RO style and pattern, no ANH style ear bumps allowed. Head opening has black trim running all along the edge. Brow trim should be positioned ¼" above the eyes. Ear screws must not have a visible slot mark and be flush to the ear. Any gap between the ears and helmet will only appear to be a seam, not any bigger. Correct 'Hovi mic' aerator tips. Chin section has a well defined seam from the angles of the mouth. Light to medium weathering as per references Cracks must be dremmelled or engraved into helmet. Cracks may be painted in metalic gold paint OPTIONAL Level three certification (if applicable): The Tube stripes are completely hollowed out with a blue section underneath. Vocoder is tubular in nature with 7 vertical tubes. A visible gap must be present between the Vocoder and the helmet. The inside of each tear will be a raised area that is grey, with 8 engraved black lines, hand painted lines like ANH are not permitted. The frown shall be recessed to the proper depth, unlike standard ANH. The inside of each rear trap will be a raised area that is grey, with 13 engraved black vertical lines, hand painted lines like ANH are not permitted. The inside of each side trap will be a raised area that is grey. There is a small bump in the right eye socket (when worn) under the lens as an intended flaw to pay tribute to the original trilogy designers. Green LED that can be switched on and off representing both living and the reserected Night trooper shall be fitted behind the lenses. TK anh stunt neckseal.jpeg Neck Seal Black with horizontal ribs, fitted to the wearer, and extending from the base of the neck to conceal the entire neck. Cracks must be dremmelled or engraved into helmet. Cracks must be gold leaf, gold paint is not permitted. Under Suit Black non-textured material, either one-piece or two-piece construction with no visible zippers or logos/designs. OPTIONAL Level two certification (if applicable): Top, where visible shall be fully ribbed with all horizontal ribbing on the arms, chest, and back. The centre of chest and back may be mesh as long as it is covered by armor. Pants shall be black non-textured material and have horizontal ribbing at the knees only. Knee gaskets are allowed as long as they correctly match top ribbing material, spacing and color. The hip section shall not have ribs. OPTIONAL Level three certification (if applicable): All ribbing on knees, arms, chest, and back must be stitched between each rib in detail and proportion to official references. The armpit area shall have the correct hexagonal mesh detail Shoulder Straps They may be affixed with Velcro or adhesive. Light to medium weathering as per references Cracks may be painted on surface in metalic gold paint. Weathering details, Gold and gray adorntments etc to be added. OPTIONAL Level two certification (if applicable): OPTIONAL Level three certification (if applicable): These shall be inserted behind the chest tabs and into slots of the backplate. Shoulder Armor One on each shoulder. The shoulders are considered effectively symmetrical; they may be worn interchangeably on the left and right shoulders and may have a black elastic strap that wraps around the inside of the bicep. Light to medium weathering as per references Cracks may be painted on surface in metalic gold paint. Weathering details, Gold and gray adorntments etc to be added. OPTIONAL Level two certification (if applicable): OPTIONAL Level three certification (if applicable): There is no swoop on the shoulder bell raised area. There is no elastic strap that wraps around the inside of the bicep. Weathering details, Gold and gray adorntments etc to be added. Upper Arm Armor Both biceps are symmetrical and interchangeable. The front strip is bevelled and approximately ⅛" thick that does not extend beyond the bicep, and has a smaller cover strip layered thereon. Light to medium weathering as per references Cracks may be painted on surface in metalic gold paint. OPTIONAL Level two certification (if applicable): OPTIONAL Level three certification (if applicable): Cover strips will cover both the front and back joints. Biceps are loosely held closed in the back with elastic, shock cord (bungee cord) or white Velcro and are designed to remain flexible. Weathering details, Gold and gray adorntments etc to be added. Forearm Armor The front strip is bevelled and approximately ⅛" thick that does not extend beyond the bicep, and has a smaller cover strip layered thereon. Light to medium weathering as per references Cracks may be painted on surface in metalic gold paint. Weathering details, Gold and gray adorntments etc to be added. OPTIONAL Level two certification (if applicable): OPTIONAL Level three certification (if applicable): Forearms are loosely held closed in the back with elastic, shock cord (bungee cord) or white Velcro and are designed to remain flexible. Cover strips will cover both the top and bottom joints. Weathering details, Gold and gray adorntments etc to be added. Hand Plates Roughly pentagonal in shape, the hand plates are mounted securely over the back of the glove. As an alternative to plastic, these may be made out of latex or latex-like material. Light to medium weathering as per references Cracks may be painted on surface in metalic gold paint. Weathering details, Gold and gray adorntments etc to be added. OPTIONAL Level two certification (if applicable): Hand guards shall be made of plastic. Weathering details, Gold and gray adorntments etc to be added. OPTIONAL Level three certification (if applicable): Hand guards should follow the correct RO shape, ANH hand guards are not acceptable. A small indent in the front of the hand plate shall be present. Weathering details, Gold and gray adorntments etc to be added. Gloves Black in color, made of Nomex, leather, or leather-like material, with no visible straps or logos/designs. The fingers are enclosed, non-textured. Rubber ANH style gloves are not permitted. Weathering details, Gold and gray adorntments etc to be added. OPTIONAL Level two certification (if applicable): The base material of the gloves will be a black synthetic material similar to Lycra, Spandex, Elastane, or Nylon. Palms of gloves shall be shiny black fabric or leather or leather-like material. On the index finger shall be a stitched piece of fabric made from the same material as the hand's underside that while stitched to the finger has one cutout towards the end of the finger that reveals the netted material underneath. Gloves shall have the correct leather pattern along the fingers/palm. Weathering details, Gold and gray adorntments etc to be added. OPTIONAL Level three certification (if applicable): Chest Armor Chest plate overlaps the abdominal plate Light to medium weathering as per references Cracks may be painted on surface in metalic gold paint. Weathering details, Gold and gray adorntments etc to be added. OPTIONAL Level two certification (if applicable): There are raised trapezoids at the top of the shoulder section beneath which the straps insert. The chest and back sides shall be connected by black extensions pieces. Weathering details, Gold and gray adorntments etc to be added. OPTIONAL Level three certification (if applicable): Top pectoral out lines swoop correctly outward. Bottom of ribcage flares correctly outward. Weathering details, Gold and gray adorntments etc to be added. Back Armor Back plate contains an "O II" design. There are raised trapezoids at the top of the backplate section beneath which the shoulder straps insert. The backplate continues past these trapezoids towards the top of the shoulder Light to medium weathering as per references Cracks may be painted on surface in metalic gold paint. Weathering details, Gold and gray adorntments etc to be added. OPTIONAL Level two certification (if applicable): Top of box wall has a trapezoidal indentation. There is a roughly 8mm circular indent near the right top corner of the backplate. Weathering details, Gold and gray adorntments etc to be added. OPTIONAL Level three certification (if applicable): Bottom of backplate is curved and extends past abdominal back cover plate. The O cog shall have 16 spines. The 11 bars have 5 horizontal evenly spaced raised bars on the bottom of the face. There is a rectangular tab protruding from the bottom of each of the two raised trapezoids at the top of the backplate. Weathering details, Gold and gray adorntments etc to be added. Abdomen Armor The abdominal armor consists of a one-piece corset design with a vertical opening centered on the back. The back opening is covered by a rectangular cover plate that is worn under the back armor. There are 3 vertical ribs centered on the front of the abdomen and two (one left and one right) ribs further spaced to each side of the center. There are two (one left and one right) angled (approximately 70 degrees) ribs on each side of the abdominal armor. There are two (one left and one right) angled (approximately 70 degrees) recessed ribs on each side of the abdominal armor behind the raised angled ribs that are black Any side shims added are to be added to the white areas of the armor. The center front detail consists of a raised rectangular panel. On the right half of the panel, there is a vertical column of 4 buttons approximately ⁷⁄₁₆" (11mm) in diameter. The bottom button is blue while the other three are grey. On the left half of the panel, there is a vertical column of raised evenly spaced horizontal gear teeth with a recessed trapezoid at the top of the column. The rectangular inside bottom of the trapezoid is black. The left front detail consists of a raised rectangular panel with an angled top. There is a vertical column of 4 buttons approximately ⁷⁄₁₆" (11mm) in diameter. The bottom button is blue while the other three are grey. The right front detail consists of a primary raised rectangular panel with an additional secondary raised rectangular panel covering the top ⅓ of the primary panel. There is a column of three thin horizontal evenly spaced raised lines across the top ½ of the secondary panel. The abdominal armor is accurate in detail and proportion to official references. Light to medium weathering as per references Cracks may be painted on surface in metalic gold paint. Weathering details, Gold and gray adorntments etc to be added. OPTIONAL Level two certification (if applicable): The cod armor is separate from the abdominal armor. The right front detail panel is centered between the two outer vertical right ribs. The left front detail panel is centered between the two outer vertical left ribs. Weathering details, Gold and gray adorntments etc to be added. OPTIONAL Level three certification (if applicable): The abdomen armor has two horizontal recessed rectangles centered above the center front detail panel and on each side of the center rib. All 8 Button details are recessed and bordered with a thin edge, only the recessed portion is painted. The center front panel column of raised gear teeth has only 9 teeth. There is a recessed edge (approximately ⅛" 3mm wide) along all four sides around the face of the center front panel The right front detail panel is centered between the two outer vertical right ribs. The left front detail panel is centered between the two outer vertical left ribs. There is a recessed edge (approximately ⅛" 3mm wide) along the sides and top around the face of the left front detail pane The abdominal armor back cover plate has two protruding tabs along the bottom that rest inside the back hard belt. Weathering details, Gold and gray adorntments etc to be added. Cod Armor The cod armor consists of a body shape formed triangular plate with a raised center rib and raised lower portion and is accurate in detail and proportion to official references. Light to medium weathering as per references Cracks may be painted on surface in metalic gold paint. Weathering details, Gold and gray adorntments etc to be added. OPTIONAL Level two certification (if applicable): The cod shall be a separate piece from the abdominal plate. Weathering details, Gold and gray adorntments etc to be added. OPTIONAL Level three certification (if applicable): Kidney Armor The kidney armor is separated in the back and covered by a rectangular plate. The rectangular plate is separate from the posterior armor. Light to medium weathering as per references Cracks may be painted on surface in metalic gold paint. Weathering details, Gold and gray adorntments etc to be added. OPTIONAL Level two certification (if applicable): OPTIONAL Level three certification (if applicable): Posterior Armor The posterior armor shall be a separate piece from the abdominal armor Light to medium weathering as per references Cracks may be painted on surface in metalic gold paint. Weathering details, Gold and gray adorntments etc to be added. OPTIONAL Level two certification (if applicable): OPTIONAL Level three certification (if applicable): Belt The Ammunition belt consists of a hard belt made of the same or similar material as the armor in two separate parts front and back (with overlap). The back belt overlaps the front belt on the sides. There are 6 ammunition boxes mounted to the belt. There are 2 (one left and one right) drop boxes suspended by black webbing approximately 2" (50mm) wide. Drop boxes must be accurate in detail and proportion to official references. The ammunition belt is accurate in detail and proportion to official references. Light to medium weathering as per references Cracks may be painted on surface in metalic gold paint. Weathering details, Gold and gray adorntments etc to be added. OPTIONAL Level two certification (if applicable): The only detail visible on the front belt is the mounted ammunition boxes unlike the squares present on ANH belts. The top edge of the front belt has protruding teeth that nest inside gaps between the ribs and detail panels of the abdominal armor. The two center ammunition boxes are thinner than the other mounted ammunition boxes. The second and fifth mounted ammunition boxes are slightly wider than the two center ammunition boxes. The two outermost ammunition boxes are almost square. The two drop boxes are rectangular and as wide as the mounted square boxes. Weathering details, Gold and gray adorntments etc to be added. OPTIONAL Level three certification (if applicable): The ammo boxes across the front are all made separately from the main belt and are secured to it The two drop boxes hang no more than 1" 25mm below the front belt and the black strap is visible. The second and fifth mounted ammunition boxes have trapezoid detail on the top of each ammunition box. The front belt protrudes past all mounted ammunition boxes above and below by approximately ⅛"–¼" 3–6mm. All ammunition boxes have slightly beveled edges on the face of each box. Weathering details, Gold and gray adorntments etc to be added. Thermal Detonator The thermal detonator consists of a grey tube approximately 3" 76mm in diameter and 8" 203mm long approximately. There are two white endcaps and a white control panel. The white control panel has a horizontal row of white rectangles along the bottom of the control panel and a grey “D” shaped recessed on the left side of the horizontal row. There is an oval greeble that protrudes from the control near the top right side. The thermal detonator is mounted to the rear hard belt and there are no visible screws or clips and is accurate in detail and proportion to official references. Light to medium weathering as per references Cracks may be painted on surface in metalic gold paint. Weathering details, Gold and gray adorntments etc to be added. OPTIONAL Level two certification (if applicable): The thermal detonator mount should be fully enclosed with solid walls on all four sides. The center of both end caps is gray. Weathering details, Gold and gray adorntments etc to be added. OPTIONAL Level three certification (if applicable): The control panel bottom detail is a raised panel with 7 raised rectangles, all are evenly spaced except the right most rectangle. There is a panel line approximately ¼" 6mm from the edge around the control panel. There is a panel line approximately ⅛" 3mm from the edge of each endcap. The inside edge of both endcaps is beveled. The oval greeble consists of an oval tube protrusion with the top edge slightly extending past the tube wall thickness and is visually similar to the Deathtrooper chin greeble. Weathering details, Gold and gray adorntments etc to be added. Thigh Armor The thigh armor is mirrored for each leg and not interchangeable. The cover strips are beveled and approximately ⅛" thick that does not extend beyond the thigh and has a smaller cover strip layered thereon. The top edge of the thigh armor is unadorned, and the bottom edge has a raised detail that fallows the bottom edge contour. The small ammo belt consists of 5 evenly spaced rectangle ammunition boxes and is installed on the bottom of the right thigh, there are no visible screws or rivets. Light to medium weathering as per references Cracks may be painted on surface in metalic gold paint. Weathering details, Gold and gray adorntments etc to be added. OPTIONAL Level two certification (if applicable): Thighs are loosely held closed in the back with elastic, shock cord (bungee cord) or white Velcro and are designed to remain flexible. Cover strips will cover both the front and rear joints. Weathering details, Gold and gray adorntments etc to be added. OPTIONAL Level three certification (if applicable): The bottom outside edges of the small ammunition belt are angled at approximately 45 degrees. Thigh armor is suspended by a black strap approximately 1" 25mm in width with a plastic side release buckle that is covered by black webbing or elastic that runs down the side seam of the leg. Weathering details, Gold and gray adorntments etc to be added. Lower Leg Armor The greaves are mirrored for each leg and are not interchangeable. The top edge of the greaves has a raised detail that fallows the top edge contour. The bottom edge of the greaves flairs out to cover the top of the ankle and boots. The cover strips are beveled and approximately ⅛" thick that does not extend beyond the greave and has a smaller cover strip layered thereon. Greaves are loosely held closed in the back with elastic, shock cord (bungee cord) or white Velcro and are designed to remain flexible. Cover strips will cover both the front and rear joints. The trapezoid knee plate (sniper knee plate) is affixed to the top of the left greave and there are no visible screws or rivets. Sniper knee plate must be aligned with the vertical cover strip and the top raised edge detail on the greave and is accurate in detail and proportion to official reference. Light to medium weathering as per references Cracks may be painted on surface in metalic gold paint. Weathering details, Gold and gray adorntments etc to be added. OPTIONAL Level two certification (if applicable): The sniper knee plate has raised detail that fallows the top edge contour. The sniper knee plate has 3 trapezoidal lugs on each side and 2 on the center bottom edge (totalling 8) of the knee plate. Weathering details, Gold and gray adorntments etc to be added. OPTIONAL Level three certification (if applicable): Boots Boots are above ankle height and the same style as the First Order TK. Chelsea type boots in the style of OT TK are not acceptable. Boots are all white and made of leather or leather-like material Flat black soles without a heel. Patent leather or high gloss is not permitted. Light to medium weathering as per references Cracks may be painted on surface in metalic gold paint. Weathering details, Gold and gray adorntments etc to be added. OPTIONAL Level two certification (if applicable): There is no seam present on the front of the boot. The wearer's inner side of the boots have zippers and no side elastic. Weathering details, Gold and gray adorntments etc to be added. OPTIONAL Level three certification (if applicable): Optional Accessories Items below are optional costume accessories. These items are not required for approval, but if present appear as described below. If adding in an accessory after initial approval, the item still needs to be submitted to local GML for approval before use. E-11 Blaster Manufactured by BlasTech Industries, the E-11 is standard-issue for many Imperial troops. Light, compact yet powerful, the E-11 blaster is always in high demand throughout the galaxy. "Note, the E-11 holster as seen in the Original Trilogy movies is not an authorized accessory for rogue One armor". Based on a real or replica Sterling Airsoft Gun, Sterling Sub-Machine Gun, scratch-built, or a modified commercial toy Stormtrooper blaster. A small flashlight can be mounted on the right side of the blaster centred over the T-Tracks. OPTIONAL Level two certification (if applicable): Blaster shall be based on a real or replica S&T Sterling L2A1 AEG Airsoft Gun. (Folding Stock does not need to function) D-Ring shall be present on the rear end cap. Scope shall be a real or replica M.H.R. (Minneapolis Honeywell Regulator Co.) M38 Telescope. 1943 model is preferred. Counter shall be a real or replica Hengstler 400 Series counter. Eagle logo is preferred. Power Cylinders shall be mounted on top of the magazine well. R1 style power cylinders are preferred over ANH style. 6 rows of T-Tracks cover the Sterling receiver holes except for the lower left row with the bayonet lug. Flashlight if fitted shall be a real or replica Element M300A Mini Scout Light. 3D printed blasters can not contain visible print lines and must be sanded smooth for a more realistic appearance. OPTIONAL Level three certification (if applicable): Scope shall be a real or replica 1943 M.H.R. Co. M38 Telescope, 1942 model is not allowed. Counter shall be a real or replica Hengstler 400 Series counter with Small eagle logo. Large eagle logo is not allowed. Power Cylinders shall be R1 style, ANH style is not allowed.

Getting ready to submit pre-approval pics. I did end up getting the boots from KeepTrooping. Impressive how fast they can these to my doorstep from China so fast. Printed out blasters from the files here. Just having fun now.

I love the smell of plastic in the mornings!!

Perfecto . Gracias

I think I'm done with this unless something new comes out. I'm happy to work on the CRL and get something pushed through!

I am requesting detachment rights as a Stormtrooper FISDetachment so I can post my approval! https://www.501st.com/members//displaymember.php?userID=24662&costumeID=343 Its my second costume, I'm already a member of the Sith Lord Detachment. Thank you all.

Moved houses and workshops! October 2023 Not a troop, but a significant life event I'll share: Pardon my spotty attendance of late - I've been busy movin' on up to a new construction townhome in the next city over with a two-car attached garage, which means the end of an era and nearly 8 years in the single car detached carport that has been "Rascal Studios". Many thanks to the TKs who have graced this hallowed hall and many memories were made and friendships built in this space. Seeing it empty, it's hard to imagine I fit storage, a workbench, and all the tools needed for a stormtrooper build in here, plus my wagon/estate. On to bigger and better things and I'll post some photos of the new workshop once I'm all set up, though with the baby on the way, that isn't likely to be any time soon. 79. Bryant Ranch Elementary Trunk Or Treat - Yorba Linda, CA - Fri. 10/20/2023

[60] 21.10.2023 -- Elbenwald Store Hamburg Re-Opening Sixty already?! Time sure does fly when you're having fun! As you can see, I got lucky and managed to snag another troop for the year. At first I feared that I wouldn't be able to participate due to a once-in-a-century flood the day and night before with several nearby cities flooded and a terrible storm that kept me running around all evening trying to secure everything. However, with the help of the wonderful DZ-23203 (as Bo-Katan this troop) and her boyfriend, we managed to get there bright and early. Of course we started the troop with the obligatory elevator selfie. If you've been reading along, you'll probably recognize the store -- I've trooped at both their festival and another store of theirs before. Since it was re-opening day for them, we were invited to patrol the area and entertain the guest. Some of them had been waiting for two hours to be the first in the store...! No wonder, with 40% off for all costumers. Of course we couldn't miss out on shopping ourselves. Okay, in this picture we don't actually have any merchandise with us and are just posing in front of the store. But at the end of the day we got to buy stuff ourselves! I got some new Stormtrooper t-shirts, Christmas gifts for my siblings, and a Darksaber for my TK-sister who sadly couldn't join us that day. Most of our day, however, was not spent inside the store, as their AC was broken and it had gotten insanely hot in there. Always remember to take breaks and hydrate! TK-66744 signing off

TK-74377 requesting access https://www.501st.com/members/displaymember.php?userID=30953&costumeID=201

Requesting access TK-77751 https://www.501st.com/members/displaymember.php?userID=36102&costumeID=360

#1. Event: Chattanooga Comic Con Date: Saturday, 21 October, 2023 Host unit: Midsouth Garrison, Mos Nooga Squad Kit: ANH-Stunt The day started out with my daughter's soccer game followed by our small town's Fall Festival, and due to the presence of bouncy-house inflatables, it looked like I might not event make it to the convention. We made a last-minute decision to bring the entire family so we rushed home, dressed up my 4YO, then made the 30-minute drive into the city. Not only was this my first ever troop, but it was also my first ever convention to attend in general, so I wasn't quite sure what to expect. After picking up our badges we found our way to the Legions area, where I met the city's local unit, the Mos Nooga Squad of the Midsouth Garrison (TN), for the first time. Note that I live across the state line in GA and am a member of the Venator Squad of its Garrison. So yes, this first official troop wasn't even with my own Garrison. Making our way to the changing room, my wife helped me kit up (only the third time she'd ever seen me as a TK), and at one point the spitting image (face, hair, glasses, etc.) of Iron Man waddled through the dressing area. Catching sight of my daughter, he exclaimed "Earth is closed," to a young Vader. We should have nabbed a picture with him. After 30-45 minutes of dressing due to disassembled armor for transport, I headed out onto the con floor for Blast-A-Trooper. Apparently there had been a TK there earlier in the day (his FX kit made it onto the news lol), but the squad was short on hard armor, so they were eager to have me. I heckled the nerf shooters with galactic jargon, and probably used "move along" far too many times. Unfortunately, no photos were taken, but since the nerf rounds had rounded tips rather than suction tips, none of them stuck to me anyway. Some kids had a blast. After a bit I decided to walk the con floor to drum up some additional Blast-A-Trooper attention, but was quickly and continually stopped by children and adults alike wanting photos. Apparently my area is short on TKs, with the local squad only have 10 squad members to begin with. The convention hall next door was hosting an IFBB body building competition, and while I was in the corridor one of the contestants exclaimed that getting a photo with me was really why he was there. While roaming around I ran into Scout @Pugs501, from my actual Squad, in her Jawa, and it was a cool moment of meeting for the first time after interacting online for 2+ years. Needless to say I felt extremely short. Scout also introduced me to Ashe of Bad Ashe Design, and we educated her on the green lenses of TK buckets after I explained that I couldn't tell the color of any of her pins and stickers for sale. I also spotted Jorge's @zv288bot meilooruns, but unfortunately he wasn't going to make the con until the next day, and with his Chopper too! Bummed I missed them. On our way back to the Legion area I called out "Hello there!" to James Arnold Taylor, who immediately ran out from behind his table to engage my daughter. I wonder how often he's heard a "Hello there" from a TK in full kit with voice amp. Haha. Though she's never seen any Star Wars on screen other than Young Jedi Adventures, she held her own in the conversation, and JAT was quite gracious. We ended with me telling him "You can go about your business" to which he responded "Move along, move along." I was giddy. Ironically, we did also find the droid I was looking for, and had to snag a photo. Pic or it didn't happen right? The pesky goldie still seems to be illusive... Back at the Legion corner I had to get some photos with the hover tank that had previously made an appearance at ICCC Nashville. Apparently the Mercs bought it off the builder, and if I'd have had more time I would have climbed up onto it, and maybe even poked out of the hatch. Next time. Finally, before heading home I made one last patrol down the celebrity row and saw that Emily Swallow had nobody in line so I approached and greeted her. Really I just wanted to welcome her to town and thank her, but I was a bit star struck and bumbled through my words. Haha. I even forgot to tell her "This is the way" when ending our conversation. Do I even Star Wars?!?! So in review: First official troop Blast-A-Trooper Escorted mini Vader daughter Finally met Scout "Hello there" with Obi-Wan (JAT) Met Emily Swallow All in all I had a pretty good time. The clubs booth with a bit disorganized, and most members were in racing shirts rather than kits, but perhaps 3:00pm was too late in the day. I'm not sure if I'll go to the next cons in January and February, but I definitely want to get in on some charity action, and some troops with my own Georgia Garrison! But I have one in the books, and I can now fill out my census!

For the Emperor! Please welcome, TK 10351 to the Stormtrooper Hall of Fame, September 2023! @RCMUSTANG Troop log can be found here. Congrats! With Unquestioned Loyalty Jonatan Östling TK-23592 "Nairy" Curator Hall Of Fame

Another detail, we see a lot more troopers with cast/resin E-11's, this is the same with the Kenobi, Ahsoka series Filled scope rail Open scope rail Both should be acceptable all the way to L3

9/10/23 - NM State Fair 74th TK troop, 29th this year This was, I think, the first year that the New Mexico State Fair asked for the 501st to attend. One of the (many many) expo buildings had a movie theme. There was costume rentals and sales, background/extra sign ups (a ton of stuff is filmed here), a photo booth and old tymie movie exhibit... and us! Saturday was broken into two troop events plus a parade, in which FOUR troopers were allowed to parade. They could only fit four in the truck they had... and that didn't sound like a ton of fun to me, so I skipped. And doggie health issues caused me to miss Saturday entirely. But I got to do Sunday! Which is pictured here. Sunday was, unfortunately, a single event. No double troop action. It was still a blast! It looked kinda like a dewback. I had to pose. I spent most of the day with Lucas (fellow GML) and his son Jacob in the fresh Death Trooper suit. I also carried my beloved LEIA LEVELLER, complete with BlastFX alllllll day. Mom, I think my Barbie had a problem at the factory. Can we return it? At our booth, which I managed to NOT get pix of, we had a beautiful new Tantive IV hallway backdrop. Many selfies were taken. My fav was this one with Lucas, giving me the WTF face whilst selfie-ing in the hallway. It's so very TK. Right before Vader followed and the force-applied neck massages began.

8/18/23 - Star Wars Rendezvous Fan Film Premier 73rd TK troop, 28th for 2023. This troop was in support of a fan film made by a local 501st member. They had a screening of it and a few other short films by local film makers. We TKs showed up to protect the public from that lone Jedi. I highly recommend this if you get the chance. Get up on stage in a large theater. It feels fantastic! @elwessbrandon singing his little black and white heart out. A+ pipes trooper!!! Annnnd that's about it for pix. We didn't really have handlers and we were all busy entertaining the crowd the rest of the time. I only shot a few pix before helping at the velvet rope. I've never said "MOVE ALONG" so many times in one night. And I could say it another few thousand. It was a great event! We even got some coverage by the local news. Good times! The film is on youtube if you'd like to search. A few local Dewback Ridge members are in it. Quite enjoyable. Just wish I had more pix from the event.

Forgive me Vader, for I have sinned. It's been ages since I updated this troop tracker. 8/16/23 - Elijah's Toy Drive 72nd TK troop, 27th for 2023 This was a troop I did in 2022 and was happy to repeat. A toy drive for the organizer's son who died a few years back. That's why we wear the armor, right? Many kids are getting smiles in honor of Elijah. With some of Rio Bravo fire team. We had a good TK showing for this troop. I... I used to be so white. Now I'm a little more movie accurate off-white. However, four of the troopers in this pic have WTF armor, which is incredibly white. I'm not THAT yellow right? I love these. Olaf selfie for my collection And pikachu! I was smiling pretty hard under there. Never trooped with a pika before. Lastly, my buddies Chuck and Randy. Chuck changed out of Boba and into.... THIS for the last half hour of the event. I caught a single photo of Randy's force choke - in my TK with bucket and gloves on! One photo was all that was needed. It was perfect.

Two troops in a day keeps the Emperor away! Please welcome TK 88222 to the Stormtrooper Hall of Fame, May 2023! @tdurden Troop log can be found here. Well done trooper and congratulations! Two in a day is quite something! Keep this up and you'll have earned that badge in no time! With Unquestioned Loyalty Jonatan Östling TK-23592 "Nairy" Curator Hall Of Fame

[33] Star Warriors Camp @ HMNS Main - Houston (6.9.2023)

[27] Hunter & Christina's Wedding - Houston (4.30.2023)