Holnave (evan_loh)

A little late for a reply, but as many have stated so eloquently above, this community is here for you. You may be housebound but you'll always find a place in the countless topics. posts and threads here. I'm sorry to here of your condition, and you don't need to feel bad about ranting here.

I would like to add that he is Malaysia Garrison's first EIB! I got my EIB and Cent when I was in the UKG at that time so the title goes to ayen_s! Congrats!

Because I always wanted to be a Stormtrooper XD

This was brought up in various pictures some time back. Brian Troyan of the Legion has already mentioned that it was actually OK to do so. I can't remember the exact reason but he has said many times on record that it is fine now I believe it was just for a limited period of time that we were encouraged to refrain from doing that.

In Memoriam From the DL From the PRO Around the Detachment In Focus Notable Troops Just For Fun Advanced Tactics Awards Follow FISD Carrie Fisher (1956–2016) Carrie Fisher was born on October 21, 1956, in Los Angeles, California. In 1975, she made her film debut in Shampoo, starring Warren Beatty, Julie Christie and Goldie Hawn. But her big breakthrough came playing Princess Leia in George Lucas's blockbuster Star Wars (1977), opposite Mark Hamill and Harrison Ford. Her role as the smart and wisecracking princess made Fisher a pop culture icon, and she reprised the role in the film's sequels The Empire Strikes Back (1980), and Return of the Jedi (1983) Fisher has one child, daughter Billie Catherine, from her relationship with agent Bryan Lourd. She was also briefly married to singer/songwriter Paul Simon in the 1980s. She struggled with alcohol and drug abuse in the 1980s, but came back in 1987 with her hit book Postcards from the Edge, which she adapted into a movie starring Meryl Streep. She went on to play supporting roles in films, and was a prolific author and screenwriter. Fisher reprised her role playing Leia for the Star Wars: Episode VII - The Force Awakens in 2015. Fisher was open about discussing her diagnosis of bipolar disorder and struggled with drug addiction. In 2016, Harvard College presented Fisher with its Annual Outstanding Lifetime Achievement Award in Cultural Humanism, highlighting that "her forthright activism and outspokenness about addiction, mental illness, and agnosticism have advanced public discourse on these issues with creativity and empathy." When accepting the honor, Fisher told the audience: “I’ve never been ashamed of my mental illness; it never occurred to me. Many people thank me for talking about it, and mothers can tell their kids when they are upset with the diagnosis that Princess Leia is bipolar too.” In November 2016, she released The Princess Diarist, a memoir based on the diaries she wrote while filming the original Star Wars trilogy. In the book, she writes that she had an affair with co-star Harrison Ford in 1976 during filming of the first movie. Fisher died on December 27, 2016, just days after suffering a major heart attack. She was 60 years old. A-list friends gathered to celebrate Fisher’s life at a memorial held at her Beverly Hills, California, home on Thursday, January 5. Among those 125 close family and friends in attendance were Penny Marshall, Meg Ryan, Richard Dreyfuss, Buck Henry, Candice Bergen, George Lucas and Gwyneth Paltrow. Eulogies were also delivered by Lourd, as well as Meryl Streep, Tracey Ullman, author Bruce Wagner and comedian Stephen Fry. Fisher, who was cremated, had her ashes placed in a Prozac pill-shaped urn, which her brother, Todd Fisher, was photographed holding at the star-studded funeral. Her role in Episode VIII will not be compromised after her death as an official from Lucasfilm stated Carrie was "absolutely wrapped" for "Star Wars: Episode VIII." Carrie Fisher was inducted as an honorary member of the 501st Legion at Star Wars Celebration IV in 2007 at the Los Angeles Convention Center. 501st tribute to Carrie http://www.501st.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=38&t=93835 #maytheforcebewithyou With a Heavy Heart & Unquestioned Loyalty, Glen "Q" Rhodes TK-85421 "gmrhodes13" Imperial Attache Belated Merry Christmas/Happy Holidays Wishes to Each and Every One of You! We opted to hold off on the December issue and bring you a more complete and well-rounded edition here in January, and as always, we hope that you enjoy it. Another Flip of the Calendar Year Has Come and Gone. Of course, as we approached it, we were met with the news of Carrie Fisher's passing. You have already seen our memoriam to our princess above, but I feel compelled to discuss it here briefly as well. I never had the pleasure of meeting Carrie, but I knew her. We all did. She lived her life in the spotlight, and never hid who she was from anyone. She also never failed to tell someone who she wasn't if necessary. Those who knew her personally have had plenty so say about that, and I was very fortunate to be present for a remembrance of our princess hosted by Peter and Angie Mayhew on New Year's Eve morning, and honored to be "glittered" in memory of Carrie, by Angie on New Year's Eve night. To us, she'll always be royalty. #CarrieOn Peter Mayhew Remembers Carrie Fisher at Marvelous Nerd Year's Eve So What's Next? 2017. There are a lot of things happening right now behind the scenes, and as they come forward, you will begin to see them taking their final form. This year will bring us the 10th Anniversary of the 501st's appearance in the Rose Bowl Parade, the 20th Anniversary of the 501st Legion, and the 40th Anniversary of Star Wars itself. There is a lot of planning for gatherings, photos, and merchandise in support of Star Wars Celebration Orlando - coming up in April, before we know it. The Rogue One TK CRL is about to be shaped into it's final form for submission to the LMO. The CRL clean-up will be commencing shortly as well (pay attention, HWTs and ROTJs you won't want to miss it). We also have new visual guides for EIB and Centurion coming very soon as well! The Last Jedi By now you have all seen that the title of what has previously been known as "Star Wars Episode VIII" is "Star Wars: The Last Jedi" - with a red font. There has been much discussion about symbolism in the post made at www.starwars.com. From the fact that there is no visual reference to VIII, to the aforementioned red text, the internet is already aflutter with speculation. I'm sure that those of you reading this who will be attending Star Wars Celebration Orlando in April will have an opportunity to see some footage first hand, and that will only fuel the rampant speculation and theorizing about the plot, etc. It is a great time to be a Star Wars fan, is it not? Elections and Detachment Affiliation. Yes, it is almost that time yet again. If you are a new member this year, or have never taken part in the Detachment Election, then take a few minutes to go to the Legion website and ensure that your Detachment Affiliation is correct. If it is not, you will not be able to vote in the upcoming elections. If you need assistance with this, be sure to ask for it. Whether it is another local Legion member, or here at the Detachment, the help you need with this task should be easily available to you. Bottom Line: Get your Detachment Affiliation done!! Forum Hosting! It is so much more exciting in bold, italicized, underlined text than it is all by itself, but yes - We recently held and closed out our forum host fund raising drive, and as always the community did not disappoint or fail to get the job done, in spite of a substantial increase in costs. We are working on the Supporter badges at this very moment. Sport them proudly! Merchandise! There is a varied selection of Detachment merchandise available currently and coming soon! Below is a partial list of items currently available, as compiled by one of our Attaches Pyrates (Aaron) of the Badlands Garrison: FISD Name Badge: http://www.whitearmo...s-thread/page-1 FISD Dog Tags - Run ends 22 January 2017!!! http://www.whitearmo...-fisd-dog-tags/ FISD ***PATCHES***, EIB and Centurion Rockers: http://www.whitearmo...ckers-are-here/ FISD 4" ***DECALS***, EIB and Centurion Rockers: http://www.whitearmo...on/#entry538513 FISD Shirts: http://www.whitearmo...d-shirts/page-1 FISD Stormtrooper Decals: http://www.whitearmo...d-decals/page-1 CONTEST TIME! As I mentioned earlier, Star Wars Celebration Orlando is happening soon. Do you want to sport an awesome FISD T-shirt while you're there? Even better, do you want to design one that everyone will want to be sporting in Orlando in April? Let's face it, everyone loves Stormtroopers, and everyone loves Stormtrooper swag. There is no piece of swag more desirable in the world, than FISD swag. Here's your chance to be the person who creates the next iconic piece of FISD swag... SWCO FISD T-Shirt Design Contest! That's all I have for now! It continues to be busy around here, but that's what we're all about... Churning out Stormtroopers by the thousands, and make sure that the Legion looks good. Thanks everyone, for making the FISD THE place to be on the internet. Until next time... With Unquestioned Loyalty, Tim Waychoff TK-51878 "Dark CMF" Detachment Leader Rogue 1. Did you enjoy it? How many times did you watch it? For most of us who are in the 501st movie launch time has always been a hectic and busy time for us. Some of us plan big celebrations and parties in anticipation for the movie viewing and others suit up as Stormtroopers for the movie premier! Which ever way we celebrate the launch of a Star Wars movie we celebrate it with a BLAST! (get it? no? blasters? blast doors? ok never mind ) So please share with us in the comments with a picture or story on your Rogue 1 festivities! My story was of a charity movie screening for a children's home at a local cinema. As we were suiting up and getting ready to go out I realised I had left my helmet bag in the car park! Needless to say I had to run back to my car which was one floor above in an elevated car park while the rest went ahead for the troop. It was pretty embarrassing for me to be seen running about in the car park in armour without my helmet with many eyes trained on me. Maybe the embarrassment came from my days in the UKG (now in the Malaysia Garrison). The UKG never took their lids off as we'd always wanted to give an immersive and real Star Wars experience. The Stormtroopers in the original trilogy never took off their buckets; neither did the UKG (sorry UKG! Rest assured it won't happen again.) Malaysian weather is pretty much an endless summer tropic. Not the good kind of summer but the hot sweaty and uncomfortable summer. Running around in a non-air-conditioned carpark was a nightmare but it didn't end there. By the time I reached the back entrance from which I came out from I found that, to my horror, it was locked and there was no one else on the other side. I was too late. The only way to get to the trooping area was to run through the main entrance and into the cinema if I was to make it on time. So this trooper, sweating buckets in his bucket (get it? ok I'll stop), trooped on and reached the area where the kids were taking photos with the team. The kids were of course excited to spend time with the Star Wars characters and despite all the discomfort and heat I was pleased with the fact that all that trouble was not in vain. Of course it could have been avoided had I been more careful. Why tell this story? Well this is a message to prospective members and members who are burnt out or have lost purpose. Many of us troopers already know the joys of putting a smile on someone's face. What we do is amazing and we should not forget it. We should be proud of it even. But we are not more special than anyone else because we look cool and all that. We are just ordinary folks in plastic costumes who are as prone to mistakes as anybody else. But what we do have is the ability to brighten up someone's day or even change someone's life. And we should seize this gift and use it. Remember the winner of our Stormtrooper's Log competition? Read here for the full story and winner! Here's a picture of Captain Wordo (who's also in the story!) with our grand prize, Brian Muir's (original sculptor of the Stormtrooper armour and Vader's helmet and armour) autograph! With Unquestioned Loyalty, Evan Loh TK-24127 "Holnave" FISD Public Relations Officer TRamp, a wireless mic fitted in a helmet with a modified Aker-style amp is a voice system that has also been made available to us troopers along with other systems we have reported in past newsletters. This month we have founder of TRamp, Paul Whitrow, to tell us a short story about him joining the Legion and how he came about to fill in a demand for a Stormtrooper voice system. My good friend Alan Molina is responsible for getting me into the Star Wars costuming world! He's a member of the UK Garrison and kept on about how good it all was for the longest time. He was constantly trying to get me to join. I resisted, a lot (plastic spacemen playing "pew pew" I thought)! Then one day he asked if he could have a lift to a troop in Bristol, and if I would like to stick around for the day to see what they got up to. After being with the UKG, and seeing the pleasure that they gave to others, I was hooked. I got myself a Shadow Trooper outfit and joined up (that pleased my wife no end). My first troop was in March 2014 at MCM Birmingham, and it was amazing, but I had no voice system in place (or fans, BIG mistake) so couldn't interact properly. So speaking to others and seeing what they used I decided that a wired system wasn't for me, and as I have a background in Electronics, Engineering and computer programming I thought I would have a go at making my own system to use. I spent many weeks researching and building different versions, fitting into my lid and trying them out. Eventually I settled on fully intergrated speakers in the ear bells, with static effects, that would come on and off automatically as I took my lid on and off. No fussing with wires or taping mics to my face; it was all glued into the lid. This worked quite well and I used it at various troops. However, it was slightly flawed so I started building again. Whilst doing this other members were seeing me trying them out and commented on how they would like one too. Long story short, I eventually settled on a wireless mic fitted in the lid, with a modified Aker-style amp in the chest plate that plays static after you talk and has a built in sound loop, and it worked like a dream. At this point, TRamp was born. I started taking orders from other troopers and went into full production. In June 2016 I was made redundant from my job so decided to jump into TRamp with both feet and concentrate my efforts to make the best trooping system I could for all sorts of costumes. TRamp has proved to be robust and reliable with over 150 units shipped. But that's not the end/ I'm constantly looking into improving the system and designing other units that will come online in due course. I am always available to answer questions or give advice if you are interested. Please visit TRamp Facebook Page to find out more about this journey, watch the videos and see if TRamp is for you! - Paul Whitrow TX-11386 With Unquestioned Loyalty, Evan Loh TK-24127 "Holnave" FISD Public Relations Officer OPERATION D-CLAN One of my fellow Garrison members told me of a young boy named Declan who is up against some tremendous adversity in a battle with a rare form of children's leukemia. Recently his health has been deteriorating while undergoing chemotherapy, radiation treatments, and blood transfusions. Doing what we do best in making smiles, and in effort to help out, we're asking for your help and aide to make Declan's world a little brighter. TK -41307 has spearheaded operations in an effort to help and support this brave young lad since meeting him this fall, and I would like to share an excerpt from her story of Declan with you all to see what we can do. "In August, I was one of the four Garrison members that the had the honor of being Declan's StormTroopers for his birthday wish. He had just been diagnosed with a rarer form leukemia.After our troop I stayed in contact sending pics, and love since our meeting. I recently was able to see our young Trooper again at a 501st visit to the Stollery Childrens Hospital and was acutely aware of his deteriorating health. It was horrifying to see what the toll the harsh chemotherapy treatments were having on his little body. It was all I could do to not drop my helmet, rush to him, scoop him up in my arms, and try to take away all his pain and suffering. This 6 year old childs life is dependant on finding a donor. And finding one fast. While sitting there in full armor, we discussed how he loved the pics I always send, as well as questioned what it's like to be a StormTrooper. When he said " I wish I could be a StormTrooper like you." A plan began to formulate in my heart. I didn't know how, or when, but I was going to see that happen for this little Star Wars loving youngling. With the overwhelming kindness and generosity of Walt at Walts Trooper Factory, the armor was on its way, and quick plans were set in motion to see what could be done to bring this joy to Declan and his family." My fellow troopers from around the globe, I would like to ask for your assistance in showing Declan our support while he battles this time of struggle. There is sense of urgency as he is not responding to the chemo and radiation as the doctors had hoped due the rare form of leukemia he possesses. We would like to get pictures from as many of you as we can, to post on the Facebook page we have generated for him to look at while he is in the hospital. Photos can be posted using this link: https://m.facebook.com/DclanSpecialOps/ Anyone who doesn't have access to Facebook are welcome to post their pictures here and I will ensure they make it to his page. All that we ask is that YOU DO NOT, I repeat, - DO NOT - mention the armor that was donated when posting your pictures. This is ultra-critical, as we are keeping this as a secret surprise gift!!! Anyone wishing to donate trading cards, patches, coins, stickers, posters etc... please contact me via PM. Charitable donations can be made on the link below: https://www.gofundme.com/DeclanHobbs We also intend to have a patch/sticker run, which will be updated on this thread once they are ready to be ordered. Additionally Declan has yet to find a donor that matches his genetic markers, and without that donor his odds are grim. In hopes that someone out there might match the same DNA markers of this courageous little boy we also wanted to inform of where anyone can if they are interested in donating by using this link below: https://blood.ca/en/stem-cells?utm_source=onematch&utm_medium=redirect&utm_campaign=onematch I would like to give all of my profound thanks to everyone in advance for your time and whatever they are able to contribute to show Declan we have his back. With Unquestioned Loyalty and the Upmost Appreciation Aaron / "Pyrates" TK - 99725 Badlands Garrison Want Your Troop to be Included? Post your troop report in the Field Training Exercises section here http://www.whitearmo...ning-exercises/. Those with troop logs please post a separate troop report as it is easier to link too. Jockey's Ridge Photo Shoot - Nags Head, NC More here: http://www.whitearmo...t-nags-head-nc/ By: Brian, tkrestonva, TK2918 Toy Sodldier TK's Built by Gary Collins jr. (flashpoint0214) More here: http://www.whitearmor.net/forum/topic/39788-toy-sodldier-tks/?hl=clermont By: Gary, flashpoint0214, TK8461 Clermont Christmas parade More here: http://www.whitearmor.net/forum/topic/39784-toy-soldier-tks-in-florida/ By: Joseph, justjoseph63, TK10963 Channel 7 RAC Christmas Pageant More here: http://www.whitearmor.net/forum/topic/39764-channel-7-rac-perth-christmas-pageant-2016/ By: Glen, gmrhodes13, TK85421 Troop for Elijah More here: http://www.whitearmor.net/forum/topic/39763-old-line-garrison/ By: Robert, RLH2515, TK10596 PCMC Hospital Visit More here: http://www.whitearmor.net/forum/topic/39765-pcmc-hospital-visit/ By: Marc, themacalu , TK43210 Rogue One Premier Hoyts Cannington More here: http://www.whitearmor.net/forum/topic/39904-rogue-one-cannington-hoyts-cinema/ By: Glen, gmrhodes13, TK85421 UKG Rogue One Press https://youtu.be/TCjtuO-OXRk More here: http://www.whitearmor.net/forum/topic/39912-ukg-rogue-one-press/ By: Chris , themaninthesuitcase , TK10911 Rogue One Trooping More here: http://www.whitearmor.net/forum/topic/39895-rogue-one-trooping/ By: Marc, themacalu, TK43210 Carolina Garrison Christmas Light Parade-Charleston SC More here: http://www.whitearmor.net/forum/topic/39951-carolina-garrison-christmas-light-parade-charleston-sc/ By: Shawn , CrookKnight , TK10204 PMH Megazone Christmas Party and BBQ More here: 39934-pmh-megazone-christmas-party-and-bbq By: Glen, gmrhodes13, TK85421 Visiting the Memorial City Mall More here: http://www.whitearmor.net/forum/topic/39947-visiting-the-memorial-city-mall/ By: Jack, SkulShurtugalTCG, TK69004 Funeral for John More here: http://www.whitearmor.net/forum/topic/40076-funeral-for-john/ By: Glen, gmrhodes13, TK85421 Happy Zoo Year More here: http://www.whitearmor.net/forum/topic/40105-happy-zoo-year/ By: Glen, gmrhodes13, TK85421 With Unquestioned Loyalty Glen "Q" Rhodes TK-85421 "gmrhodes13" Imperial Attaché This month's Memoir is a very recent one, shared with us by Wingnut65 (Jeff Salt, TK-50297) of the Florida Garrison. It is a truly touching story, with a wonderfully happy ending, so I'll leave it to him to tell it: National Adoption Day 2016 On Friday, November 18th, four members of the Tampa Bay Squad were invited to participate in a celebration reception for National Adoption Day at the Pinellas County Justice Center in Clearwater, Florida. Twelve children, ages 3 months to 10 years, were formally united with their new families in a courtroom hearing, which included entertainment and dancers. Waiting to meet them down the hall for the reception, were Darth Vader, Kylo Ren, a TFA TIE Pilot and this lonely Stormtrooper, along with the Chick-fil-a Cow, Iron Man, Tinkerbell, Belle, 'Star-Lord' Peter Quill and a couple of local Ghostbusters. Star Lord is a criminal, after all. It was a great feeling to see kids and their families, grandparents and siblings, all dressed in their Sunday best, coming out of the courtroom and down the hall with smiles and laughter after signing the papers. We gave plenty of high fives, took many photos and got a few hugs. Then we met Gracie... When 3-year-old Gracie came leading her family down the hallway, her eyes lit up in wonder and amazement when she saw four Star Wars characters all lined up along the hallway, waving to her. We held our hands out to give her high fives, but she wouldn't have any of it. She had a big smile, but walked past us, hugging the other wall to be as far away from us as she could. A little while later, this TK was standing next to Iron Man for a few photos when I saw Gracie watching us. I tried again for a high five, but she still wasn't ready. The 501st continued to spread cheer and smiles to all of the families, staff, and kids of all ages in attendance that day. We wandered in to visit the conference room, which was serving as the banquet hall for the day. Vader and this TK ended up under an arch of balloons for some photo ops. We took pictures with more families and some of the court staff, including plaintiffs and a judge. I even gave rabbit ears to a plaintiff! Then Gracie came up for a photo, being carried by her new mom. She finally gave Vader and myself the high fives we'd been looking for. After a photo with us, I turned to thank her, but found her with both arms reaching towards me. She just about leaped in my arms and gave me a big hug. After a few more photos with me holding her, I gave her back to her mom. Kylo and I then walked around the room and took more pictures, when we came to where Gracie and her family were sitting and eating. She walked up to me and reached up. As I lifted her up, she gave me a kiss on the cheek and said she loved me. I told her the same as I realized that this is why I joined The 501st Legion (Vader only got another high five)! All of the special guests that participated in this adoption celebration, said that this event was very special and we look forward to coming back next year. Twelve families were united together as part of National Adoption Day on this special Friday, just before our Thanksgiving Holiday. Thanks to SL 94007, DS 12459, CX 10693, TK 50297 and members of the MUCH Foundation for helping make this such a memorable day for these families! Jeff Salt TK-50297, Wingnut65 Tampa Bay Squad, Florida Garrison With Unquestioned Loyalty, Tim Waychoff TK-51878 "Dark CMF" Detachment Leader "Christmas TK" contest Thank you Joseph - TK10963 - justjoseph63 for running another great competition with the winner to receive an awesome cog jacket, all you had to do was dress up your armor with the coolest, most awesome TK Christmas outfit while holding a sign with 2016 on it. Competition ran until 25th Dec 2016 and was drawn on 1st Jan 2017 and I was honoured to be named the winner. I may have gotten a little carried away, but I did like that jacket. Second place to Preston - TK91488 - Pretzel who will receive an official 501st car decal You can see more of the entries here: http://www.whitearmor.net/forum/topic/39783-christmas-tk-contest/ Ever wondered how different things would be if Star Wars had been a musical? Watch the video below to find out! With Unquestioned Loyalty, Glen "Q" Rhodes TK-85421 "gmrhodes13" Imperial Attache So what exactly are EIB (Expert Infantry Badge) and Centurion levels? These programs, "Advanced Tactics" were designed for those who choose to take their armor above and beyond the minimum requirements for basic 501st Legion approval. It gives you the chance to show a level of dedication and pride that takes your armor closer to being as "screen accurate" as possible, without as much extra work as you may realize. It also works on giving a better look to the Legion as an entity, and you can bet others will take notice of your hard work. The 501st has a list of detailed requirements for Basic approval, (level 1), EIB, (level 2) and Centurion, (level 3) which can be found here in the Costume Reference Library, (CRL) http://databank.501s...tuming:FISD_CRL Here are a few of the questions people may be wondering about: 1. "I am a (tall/short/heavy/thin) Trooper. Can I still apply? Of course! These programs are open and encouraged for all sizes of TKs, as long as the costume is correct and meets the guidelines. There are many specific build tutorials to every option, as well as a vast network of fellow TKs on the FISD to help you out and offer suggestions. 2. "How much extra will I have to pay for extra items"?? The cost is actually quite reasonable, considering the few extra supplies you will need, which are listed in the requirements area. While it may run you a little more to implement these additions to your costume, they will go a long way to improving accuracy. All needed items can be found for sale on this thread: http://www.whitearmo...project-orders/ While blasters are not required for basic approval, for EIB and Centurion levels they are, and may need upgrades, also listed in the CRL. 3. "I haven't received my kit yet, is it too early to start planning"? Actually, aiming for Centurion is easiest to do right out of the box. 4. "I have my basic TK approval, can I still get in these programs"? In a word... absolutely! 5. "Are there any "perks" to this extra work and cost"? Besides knowing that you have a great looking set of armor, the 501st and FISD believes you should be deservedly recognized for your achievement(s), and allows you to wear the appropriate embroidered "rocker" badge of rank (available for a very minimum cost) on your shirt, helmet bag, etc., as well as rank decals to put on your armor bin. You will have access to select "challenge coin" (like the gold one) runs and have your earned title posted below your name in your FISD signature. The biggest perk (aside from knowing that you went above and beyond the call of duty) is having your name immortalized on the list of those Legion members who have achieved Expert Infantry and Centurion. 6. "Is it hard to apply, and what happens then"? After basic approval, all you do is make sure your armor is up to the standards set forth in the CRL, post a thread with the required photos in the appropriate area (see below), and wait a bit for the DOs (Deployment Officers) to address it. (Hint: Studying these threads before you submit can be a GREAT help). These are also listed on the main page of the FISD site. While waiting for approval, you will get some comments from others who will offer suggestions and constructive advice to help you out. If you should need any changes, the DOs will let you know, so you can adjust accordingly. Don't be dismayed if you do need changes... it's all for your benefit! After you are approved for EIB, then you can submit for Centurion. EIB - http://www.whitearmo...ntryman-status/ Centurion- http://www.whitearmo...nturion-status/ Note: You will see some suggestions in the existing submissions/approval requests that, while not actually part of the CRL, are highly suggested items, (for your benefit), such as "flat-head screw heads on the TD (thermal detonator) should be painted black" for Centurion, etc. Those small details all add up to closer screen accuracy. Just remember that the FISD is here to assist you every step of the way with whatever other questions you may have, but if you can't seem to find what you are looking for in your research, just post the question and we can help you get to the next level(s). With Unquestioned Loyalty, Joseph Pedigo TK-10963 "justjoseph63" FISD Amabassador This month the 1st Imperial Stormtrooper Detachment would like to congratulate: Expert Infantry Badge Award: Jim Fratarcangelo "Frat-man-du" TK-19650 Pano Tsibas "panots" TK-15674 Hugh "Spyder918" TK-21874 Cody Adams "MrSnrub" TK-41295 Marc Connor "CTID" TK-40174 Xiomer Bolivar Sun "xiomer" TK-9378 Kevin Chapman "Chapaaz" TK-14407 David Lish "Furryjawa" TK-62600 Centurion Award: Marco Bossow "Atin" TK-62726 Derrick Meade "Kamikaze" TK-11778 Hugh "Spyder918" TK-21874 Marc Connor "CTID" TK-40174 Cody Adams "MrSnrub" TK-41295 Reno Rodriguez "TK11369" TK-11369 David Lish "Furryjawa" TK-62600 Stand tall and be proud of what you have achieved troopers. You will now be deployed into the First Imperial Stormtrooper Detachment Advanced Tactics Roster. May you be an inspiration and beacon for aspiring troopers who want to look the best! Make us proud troopers! The FISD is always looking for new applicants for our Advanced Tactics program so please do not hesitate to apply if you meet the standards! Our Deployment Officer and armorers are here to help and guide you through to success! Feel like your armor is up to standards and worth of recognition? Apply for the Expert Infantry Badge Program now! Want to go the extra mile, raise the standards of Stormtrooper armor, and be the envy of your peers? Apply for the Centurion Program now! Note: Applicants need to be EIB approved before applying for Centurion. With Unquestioned Loyalty, Evan Loh TK-24127 "Holnave" FISD Public Relations Officer Don't Forget We're on Facebook and Twitter! Facebook: www.facebook.com/whitearmor If you're on FB, stop by and say hi, ask questions, and share stories! Twitter: www.twitter.com/FISD501st or @FISD501st follow FISD on Twitter! Instagram: www.instagram.com/501stfisd With Unquestioned Loyalty, Evan Loh TK-24127 "Holnave" FISD Public Relations Officer On behalf of the 1st Imperial Stormtrooper Detachment Command Staff and the Imperial Propaganda Department, <End Transmission>

From the DL From the PRO Around the Detachment Notable Troops Just For Fun Advanced Tactics Awards Follow FISD Greetings Once Again! I want to start this edition of from the Detachment Leader with a heart-felt thanks to everyone here that has been doing what you do, to make this Detachment the best place online for Stormtrooper enthusiasts to hang out and share things. Like any other year, this one has already had some crazy twists and turns that have impacted what we're doing, but at the end of the day (as I've been told) it is the friendships that matter. I like to think of the FISD in that regard, a great big group of friends hanging out. Online. I hope that all of you feel the same for the most part. Kudos Are In Order! Again, kudos to a number of members of the community here, as the Battlefront Shocktrooper CRL was green-lighted and approved for Legion approval as a new to the Legion costume on 15 August, 2016. There was a great deal of collaboration and cooperation by many people, on many fronts both in the forums and behind the scenes, that made this newly discovered dream become a reality. Like so many things, there was a bit of friction along the way, but in the end the FISD now has 13 Legion costumes to manage (with number 14 presumably following in the not to distant future). Thank you again, to everyone involved in making it happen! What are you new folks learning about the Legion? This is something that has been popping up in discussions among active Legion members in more than one Garrison, as I understand it, quite frequently lately. Although it is not specifically an FISD thing, I'm going to take a moment here to promote the Legion at large to you. This is not simply people in plastic and leather (that's an entirely different club), as I sort of mentioned in my first paragraph. This is a global organization of Star Wars costumers, who have come together under a common banner and been recognized in many official ways by Lucasfilm as being an actual part of the Star Wars universe. I hope that everyone takes that fairly seriously. We are allowed to do the things that we do, because of how we do them across the globe. While we are here to promote and help you with all things Stormtrooper, I feel that we have a further, and perhaps more important obligation as members, to ensure that you are learning about the 501st Legion itself as a result of your interactions with us here. So, I encourage all of you to take a few moments to read through a few documents, starting with the Trooper Survival Guide. This doesn't need to be done all at once. In fact, it is probably better if you take these one at a time, and review them so that you are comfortable with them. Next, go to the Legion's home page and click on the "About the 501st" drop-down link. There, at the bottom, you will find "Operating Guidelines." Spend some time with those documents. Go and watch "Star Warriors" on YouTube. See if you can find "Heart of an Empire" someplace, and watch it as well. Next year will be a significant one for all of us in the 501st Legion. August of 2017 will bring about the 20th Anniversary of the Legion, and of course, in May we will celebrate the 40th Anniversary of Star Wars. This is really something amazing that you are all either already a part of, or may be thinking about becoming a part of in the future. Know what came before you, learn the stories, and the significance of all of it. I believe that you'll be happy that you did, when all is said and done. The Most Awesome Thing About Most Successful Organizations Is The People So, yeah, I've been pumping everyone's tires a little bit with this particular edition of From the Detachment Leader and there's a very specific reason for my doing so: It is good every now and then to stop worrying about the day to day activities, hit the pause button, and let the people in your organization know that they're awesome. I personally appreciate and am thankful for each and every one of you, and what you bring to the table here at the FISD. It has thrived for more than a decade now, because of the people. It will continue to thrive, because of the people. It is the best Detachment in the 501st Legion, because of the people! Thank you. You're all awesome! With Unquestioned Loyalty, Tim Waychoff TK-51878 "Dark CMF" Detachment Leader Don't forget to write your very own story in our Trooper Log competition to win an autograph from Brian Muir! Write a short story involving yourself (a Stormtrooper), a Star Wars character, a new made up character, or even all of them together! Darth Vader must be in the story in the form of a cameo, protagonist or even an antagonist. Word count: no minimum. Maximum of 500 words. The background story or premise must be followed. (Should add that the background is in no way part of the 500 words) Participation is open to anyone but the FISD Staff Members. Timeline: The competition begins in earnest on 17th August 2016 and shall end on 17th September 2016. The winner will be announced shortly after and the story showcased in the following month's FISD Newsletter. Prize: Upon winning, FISD VIP (and also a member here) Brian Muir will mail his autograph directly to you! Fun fact for those of you who are not aware, Brian Muir sculpted the helmet and armor of Darth Vader, the armor of the Stormtrooper, as well as various props and characters throughout the Star Wars Saga. In the month of May this year a poll was made that asked three questions: Which armor do you like better? First Order or Empire? What Armor are you Wearing? What FO TK Are You Wearing Go to the page linked below to find out the results or if you haven't already answered the poll do add to the results and share your opinion! http://www.whitearmor.net/forum/topic/37310-the-what-armor-are-you-wearing-poll-2016-edition/ *Do note that you would need 501st access in this forum to view and participate in the poll. With Unquestioned Loyalty, Evan Loh TK-24127 "Holnave (evan_loh)" FISD Public Relations Officer The FISD is currently looking to fill quite a few positions in the Imperial Attache program, and is looking for qualified people to fill them. Our main goal is to have at least two in every Garrison, and at least one in every Squad and Outpost. Some of the main missions of this program include: 1. Being a liason between your unit and the FISD, keeping us informed of news, updates, etc. of things happening in your area. 2. Being active on the boards (both here and on a local level) helping new recruits, answering questions, welcoming new folks to the FISD. 3. Assisting and encouraging both new and approved members to reach EIB and Centurion level. The qualifications are: 1. Have official status as a full, active 501st Legion Stormtrooper. 2. Must have built your own armor. 3. Be in good standing with the FISD and your local unit, and not under any disciplinary action. 4. Be an active participant on the FISD and your local boards. 5. A suggested level of EIB or above. Benefits: 1. In addition to the title FISD Imperial Attache, you will have access to the Imperial Propaganda Machine area of the FISD - the same area as the photoshop team (Combat Photographers) and other extended staff in order to share ideas, information, file reports, and ensure any best practices are shared among the entire team. 2. Access to the Attache Headquarters section- To discuss things related to the position. 3. Access to merchandise for Attaches only, (patches, rockers) etc. to wear proudly. To see the Attaches in your area, or if it needs one, a list (in progress) of all Garrisons/Squads (Outposts coming soon) can be found here: http://www.whitearmo...st-in-progress/ So, if you enjoy helping future, new, and present TKs out, have a good working knowledge of armor, and are interested in joining up, just post on the link listed below with your qualifications and reason(s) for wanting to be a part of the program. We will review your post, and get back to you as soon as we can. If you have any specific questions, you are more than welcome to PM me, and I look forward to welcoming you to the rank of Imperial Attache! Click here to find out more! With Unquestioned Loyalty, Joseph Pedigo TK-10963 "justjoseph63" FISD Amabassador Rouge One Troopers It’s an exciting time for Star Wars fans, with new movies and media scheduled to come out frequently in the next few years. Every new piece that comes out is another opportunity for more of the cold, shiny plastic we love so much. With Rogue One due out at the end of 2016, we’re already seeing some people putting together new suits for both the Shoretrooper and Deathtrooper. Whitearmor member Jimmiroquai is working on both Shore and Deathtrooper kits at the moment. His tailor sewed some soft parts based on World War II-type patterns. He is sculpting helmet pieces as well as the rest of the armor for both types of troopers and the prototypes are looking really nice. He did sign ups for a first run, and the wait list filled up in just 12 hours. You can check out Jimmy’s thread an all the progress on both troopers here: http://www.whitearmor.net/forum/topic/38197-jimmiroquai-rogue-one-builds/ Mitcheg1 has also got a thread going about the Deathtrooper. Greg’s got a good list going of where to get individual parts, with lots of pieces yet to be tracked down. His will be a good thread to keep an eye on if you’re interested in starting a Deathtrooper. Check out what he’s got together so far: http://www.whitearmor.net/forum/topic/38135-rogue-one-death-trooper-build-thread/ Darren from Purgeworx has got a Shoretrooper bucket in the works. It’s over on facebook, so you can hop over there if you want to check it out. As of now, he’s not sure about the size of the runs he’ll be doing, and is planning to probably ship just within the UK. You can check out the main Purgeworx page here, and click around to see all the other cool props they’re working on, too: https://www.facebook.com/Purgeworx/?pnref=lhc There seems to be a little contention about which detachment the Shoretroopers will end up in. They could go to Special Ops, Pathfinder, or possibly elsewhere. It’s been determined that Deathtroopers will be a part of Special Ops. I’m looking forward to seeing what whitearmor members end up doing with these new troopers! If you’re working on a Shoretrooper or a Deathtrooper, share your progress! With Unquestioned Loyalty, Alison Machado “manyhighkicks” Murray Symphony Troop July 9th More here: http://www.whitearmo...symphony-troop/ By: Aron, TK, 91091 Visiting the NASA Booth at Comicpalooza More here: http://www.whitearmo...ooza-pic-heavy/ By: Jack, SkulShurtugalTCG , 69004 Princess Margaret Hospital Foundation Family BBQ More here: http://www.whitearmo...ion-family-bbq/ By: Glen, gmrhodes13, 85421 Birthday Party For Autistic Child More here: http://www.whitearmo...hild-seneca-sc/ By: Bryan, trooper96 , 14082 Relay For Life Southend -on-Sea More here: http://www.whitearmo...-sat-30-jul-16/ By: Pete, nosamp, 7414 With Unquestioned Loyalty, Glen "Q" Rhodes TK-85421 "gmrhodes13" Imperial Propaganda Department One of our very own members have decided to take a big leap in his life: a decision that will change his life forever. We are talking about our very own Derek TK-26212 . After months of preparation and communication with the help of Southern California Garrison and the Rebel Legion, Derek set up an "ambush" on his girlfriend that would lead him to ask her for her hand in marriage. We'll let the video below do all the talking from here on! https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=youtu.be&v=6A3XvQ1BMfQ&app=desktop With Unquestioned Loyalty, Evan Loh TK-24127 "Holnave (evan_loh)" FISD Public Relations Officer This month the 1st Imperial Stormtrooper Detachment would like to congratulate: Expert Infantry Badge Award: Chris Bell "bells0" TK-83115 Hunter Nelson "HunterDisarm" TK-81457 Preston Christman "Pretzel" TK-91488 Jim Moser "MoSc0ut" TK-50899 Joseph "justjoseph63" TK-10963 Dave "Skorpion1974" TK-14274 Walt Warner "FireTrooper911" TK-52860 Sebastian Depaola "sebadepa" TK-31124 Christian Meyer-Zurwelle "Novak Dimon" TK-21518 Tom Alford Finnegan "YIYO" TK-28125 Reno Rodriguez "TK11369" TK-11369 Victor Martin Guzman "Traumtrooper" TK-19811 Jack Sauder "SkulShurtugalTCG" TK-69004 Carlos Mendoza "Solcar23" TK-5924 Dale Evans "Squaddiechef" TK-23812 Tom Rogers "TK-Tom" TK-19764 Chris Johnson "gromitsdad" TK-71430 Theo van Geffen "ScaryGuy" TK-31026 Brian Payne "Darkpain714" TK-50976 Centurion Award: Gary Crowell "TK-22019" TK-22019 Joseph Chan "tk4949" TK-4949 Hunter Nelson "Hunterdisarm" TK-81457 Joe Marzocca "The Chief" TK-98239 Steve Tennison "Chip" TK-24271 Samuel Ibon Solórzano Rodríguez "Hades" TK-24637 Sebastian Depaola "sebadepa" TK-31124 David Qian "JodoYodo" TK-30307 Jerome Fabry "Yooda2004" TK-41274 Fernando Sánchez Llorca "Lord Darzu" TK-71987 Joseph "justjoseph63" TK-10963 now with three Centurion certificates! ANH Stunt, ANH Hero,and HWT Centurion. Kudos for all the hard work! Stand tall and be proud of what you have achieved troopers. You will now be deployed into the First Imperial Stormtrooper Detachment Advanced Tactics Roster. May you be an inspiration and beacon for aspiring troopers who want to look the best! Make us proud troopers! The FISD is always looking for new applicants for our Advanced Tactics program so please do not hesitate to apply if you meet the standards! Our Deployment Officer and armorers are here to help and guide you through to success! Feel like your armor is up to standards and worth of recognition? Apply for the Expert Infantry Badge Program now! Want to go the extra mile, raise the standards of Stormtrooper armor, and be the envy of your peers? Apply for the Centurion Program now! Note: Applicants need to be EIB approved before applying for Centurion. With Unquestioned Loyalty, Evan Loh TK-24127 "Holnave (evan_loh)" FISD Public Relations Officer Don't Forget We're on Facebook and Twitter! Facebook: www.facebook.com/whitearmor If you're on FB, stop by and say hi, ask questions, and share stories! Twitter: www.twitter.com/FISD501st or @FISD501st follow FISD on Twitter! Instagram: www.instagram.com/501stfisd With Unquestioned Loyalty, Evan Loh TK-24127 "Holnave (evan_loh)" FISD Public Relations Officer On behalf of the 1st Imperial Stormtrooper Detachment Command Staff and the Imperial Propaganda Department, <End Transmission>

Our first in a line of competitions is the Trooper's Log. If you missed out on the rules posted in our July Newsletter please read below: Write a short story involving yourself (a Stormtrooper), a Star Wars character, a new made up character, or even all of them together! Darth Vader must be in the story in the form of a cameo, protagonist or even an antagonist. Word count: no minimum. Maximum of 500 words. The background story or premise must be followed. (Should add that the background is in no way part of the 500 words) Participation is open to anyone but the FISD Staff Members. Timeline: The competition begins in earnest on 17th August 2016 and shall end on 17th September 2016. The winner will be announced shortly after and the story showcased in the following month's FISD Newsletter. Prize: Upon winning, FISD VIP (and also a member here) Brian Muir will mail his autograph directly to you! Fun fact for those of you who are not aware, Brian Muir sculpted the helmet and armor of Darth Vader, the armor of the Stormtrooper, as well as various props and characters throughout the Star Wars Saga. Background Story: The Imperial Security Bureau (ISB) has suspected a leak in confidential information. An Imperial communications facility in Dandoran has since gone dark as the next expected routine report is a couple weeks overdue. Concerned for the integrity of the facility, the ISB has sent Agent Rhene to investigate and to ensure that the facility had not been destroyed, or worse... Compromised! Agent Rhene, escorted by the FISD's finest, a division of Elite Stormtroopers who are always by her side, no matter how dangerous her missions were. The testament of their loyalty is such that they never failed her and she in turn never fails her mission. The base, being one of the key communications outpost in the Outer Rim, is heavily guarded by a garrison of Stormtroopers led by Overseer Tritan. Tritan, a shady figure known to have had a past in information brokering, has always had the ISB on edge. Regardless of his past motives, he has always had a knack at obtaining information that the Empire has valued, thus a tense and fragile alliance existed between the ISB and Tritan. However, with the lack of communications by the Dandoran Facility, the ISB fears that the allure of wealth may have caused Tritan to go back to his old habits. Agent Rhene's arrival at the base was not greeted nor were there any notions of acknowledgements made despite her several attempts to request permission to land on one of the landing platforms. The base seemed to be devoid of staff or Stormtroopers making their rounds. Rhene signaled to her troops to stand ready as she instructed the shuttle to land at the closest platform to the Command Center. She figured that the security feeds from the Command Center will be an adequate start to providing any evidence to begin solving this mystery. Crossing a hall on they way to the command center the doors behind them suddenly close shut. An upon a railing above Rhene, stood Overseer Tritan and his garrison of Stormtroopers with their blasters trained on her and her men. "Pity how they should send one of their most promising agents. Unlucky as you are Agent Rhene, as this is the end for you." Tritan then gestured to his Stormtroopers, "Kill them all." As Tritan's Stormtroopers prepared to fire, an explosion rocked the base, sending bits of metal and debris across the hall as it tore open a large gaping hole by the wall. Smoke fills the hall as Rhene and her men dived for cover, while Tritan was momentarily distracted and could be heard yelling at his Stormtroopers. Before the dust even clears, blaster shots ringed across the hall as Rebel Commandos flowed in through the hole. Rhene deduced that the Rebels must have taken the lack of communication by the Facility as an invitation to storm the place and steal vital Imperial Information. Thus, Rhene and her team now stand in a crossfire between Rebels and traitors of the Empire. * the contestant now continues on the story in the comments below

Founder's Corner From the DL Around the Detachment From the PRO Notable Troops Memoirs of a Stormtrooper Advanced Tactics Awards Follow FISD Greetings loyal Citizens and Troopers. Paul was the driving force behind the formation of the FISD and the Expert Infantry Badge program. And now we are celebrating 10 years of 'Troopers Helping Troopers'. It was no easy job to start from a small handful to what is now the largest detachment in the Legion and the best resource online for Stormtrooper costuming. One of the IPM's first interviews was with our Founder Paul on the origins of the Expert Infantry Badge program and the coveted ribbon. That was a couple of years ago. In light of the FISD's 10 Anniversary the Q&A has been posted again below to take us on a tour of the memories of Paul and his journey. Some of you might be wondering why there's an "Expert Infantry" ribbon under some screen names on the FISD forums. Some of you might not even have heard of it or you could already be an Expert Infantry but unawares of the history of it. Who better than Daetrin (Paul) himself, founder of both the Expert Infantry Badge (EIB) program and the 1st Imperial Stormtrooper Detachment, to tell us about this program? IPM: What is the Expert Infantry Badge program and its vision? Daetrin: The Expert Infantry award program is captured as the second goal of our detachment charter, as I felt the program was so crucial to the detachment's success, it was imperative to write it in. To quote "2. Develop and create a higher standard of Stormtrooper costume for members to achieve and a "kudo" (e.g. deployed status) as a recognition of that accomplishment (the same way the Mos Eisley Police Department has created a higher standard for MEPD Deployment). The goal of this is not to force people to achieve the higher standard, but rather to demonstrate what the costume can become and recognize those who achieve it." The intent is to be a step up from base standards, however not to be the highest level of accuracy one can achieve in a 501st costume. If the standards are too high and rely on items that are expensive or very hard to acquire, or that takes a large amount of time, very few people will go for it. This is what happened to Lancer. For these reasons I wanted a program that could be achieved with a moderate level of time, money and skill, yet still push the bar on accuracy. As you can see, at it's heart it's a recognition program. There really shouldn't be any tangible benefit except the satisfaction that one went above and beyond the base standard, and you were congratulated for it. This is why the only EI-only merchandise is the gold coin; people should be striving for this achievement because they can enjoy the pride in a job well done, and not for any material benefit. By recognition, they can inspire others to do the same. My thought was that if we ever get to 30% adoption, then we should increase the standards. However, as the base standards were increased, we had to up the EI standards so that they were a bump up, yet again, over base. I think it's important for people to remember that this is an optional program. Not participating does not make you a lesser member in FISD. IPM: How and when did this program come about? Daetrin: When I started in the Legion back in 2005, there was no forum for Stormtroopers. This was a problem for me because I was in a pretty small garrison where we only trooped maybe once a month (or every other month) and the membership was low. Secondly, information was hard to come by. There were a few sites like Dean Plantamura's White Armor Chronicles and also Mike Harrison's site, however there was no place to ask questions. If I asked locally I was told, "When you get in, we'll tell you," or when someone showed me pictures of what I later learned was poor recast AP armor and I asked about its accuracy, the response I got was "Why are you asking so many questions?". I discovered MEPD (Mos Eisley Police Department - the Sandtrooper forum) and found a whole different experience. On MEPD, they discussed *everything,* and people are very willing to share what they knew. I was shocked. "Is this what the rest of the Legion is like?" I kept wondering why there was no such resource for Stormtroopers, but when I asked if there was a Stormtrooper detachment, I was told, "You're in it." I guess for old-time troopers in big garrisons, people had a lot of local help. Also, as it turned out, it seemed there was a type of old-time trooper who really had no sympathy for new people, and the pattern seemed to be that they let you buy FX armor on Ebay for $1,300 to get started, but once you were in, they told you how to get FX via the Legion for much less, or they told you about AP or RT, which were far more accurate. My motivation was that I didn't want any other new Stormtrooper to go what I went through - being lied to, or else just had information withheld. I wanted MEPD for TKs. I felt even if the detachment never grew beyond 20 people and only got a few hits a month, if I could save even one person the pain I went through, I'd be happy. And thus, FISD was born. MEPD also had a really cool deployed program where they encouraged and acknowledged people who wanted to go beyond base 501st standards and up their costume. I thought this was very inspiring and worked out well - even today about 1/3rd of all Sandtroopers are "deployed." The Legion at the time was probably about 90% out of the box FX, and it seemed strange to me that the "backbone of the Legion" would have the lowest costume standards accuracy-wise, and I wanted the EI program to encourage my fellow TKs to take the same leap that those on MEPD did. This is why the program is identical between the two detachments. Being an XO on MEPD back in the day helped ensure that the standards between the programs were comparable. IPM: Where is the name "Expert Infantry Badge" derived from? Daetrin: Originally, we put the title to a vote and it was called the "Mark" program, e.g. an ANH trooper was called "Mark IV". This was clearly a case where sometimes the wisdom of the crowd is not so wise. Since no one really liked the name, we rebranded it to "Elite," and you can still find some bin stickers that say FISD Elite on them. However some of the old TKs in the Legion felt we were too "elitist," so it had to change (we were forced to). I started thinking about what would capture the essence of the program. I started my Army career as as infantryman (11B), and thought that the Army's Expert Infantryman award was pretty appropriate. In other words, it was an award that went to any trooper who was able to demonstrate mastery of the basics of his craft. Hmmm...sounds exactly like what I wanted, so I changed the name years ago and the rest is history. This is also why all the FISD branding derives from the US Army colors and insignia, by the way. When you are the one creating the detachment, you get to design the logo... IPM: This program has come a long way. Were there any initial struggles such as misconceptions about it, raising awareness, or launching the program? Daetrin: Absolutely. The primary struggle was that many of the old-time troopers - and thus many in Legion leadership positions - had out-of-the-box FX suits and had no desire to put any more time and effort in to their suits. For whatever reason, they were very reluctant to have new troopers be better looking and more accurate. It's sad because in my mind, it's natural that those that come later would benefit from the pioneering spirit of those that came before. Life is about change, so trying to keep the standards locked in to 2004 seemed very strange to me, especially as other costumes were constantly raising their own accuracy bar. However, what has happened is that the older members simply retire than upgrade, and for new members going EI isn't much more work than base standards on a new suit, so most of the folks going EI are new members. As they move up in to leadership roles, themselves, through the years, the resistance has faded. Now many detachments have such a program: SLD, SpecOps, IOC, BSN. It may be hard for people to understand that at the time we started, only MEPD has such a program, and FISD was only the second detachment to create one. A huge thanks has to be paid to Ed DaSilva - the DL after my first term - who battled relentlessly to ensure that the Stormtrooper standards wouldn't be allowed to languish. He is truly an unsung hero of FISD and Stormtrooping costuming in the Legion. IPM: As of April 2014, the FISD has 369 active Expert Infantries representing 60 garrisons in 28 countries. What are your thoughts on its current state? Daetrin: I'm pleased that it has grown, although I am disappointed that it has leveled out in the past few years. We have over 2,129 TKs in the Legion. If we were as successful as MEPD, we'd have 700 Expert Infantry members in the Legion. So while 370 sounds impressive, I feel we're only half way there. This is why I'm so passionate that rather than focusing on Centurion or worrying about yet another program, FISD should really concentrate on outreach to help get more Expert Infantry in the Legion. Think about it: if every EI helped just *one* person go EI, we could double the ranks overnight. IPM: How can one become an Expert Infantry? Daetrin: It's quite easy. Even someone with an FX suit can achieve it for about $50 and an afternoon of work. For people doing new build suits, there truly is no extra effort involved as all modern suits come EI ready, which was not the case back when FX was popular. All one has to do is read the standard and build their suit accordingly. In fact, when I go to conventions, I see many troopers who are one detail or two away from achieving it, such as not having a D-ring on their blaster. A $1 part and they'd be there. IPM: Can one apply for multiple costumes? Daetrin: Absolutely! That's part of the fun. Todd Maxfield-Matsumto currently has the record with 6 EI awards, and is, in fact, the only person to have a gold instead of silver star above his badge. - End of Q&A Paul, the FISD and its Staff would like to thank you and all those who have helped before to make the FISD what it is today. The ease of acquiring Stormtrooper costume knowledge is something we take for granted far too easily. Today we have 611 Expert Infantries. Looks like we'll be reaching 700 real soon! With Unquestioned Loyalty, The Imperial Propaganda Machine To all who shall see these presents, greeting: This month marks the Tenth Anniversary of the 1st Imperial Stormtrooper Detachment (FISD). In a normal newsletter introduction, I try to compose a post that touches on the mood of the forums, or the exciting things that may be happening specifically that month. This month though... I don't have much to say. This intro piece is not about me, or what I think. It is about you, each and every one of you reading this right now. You're the reason that the Imperial Propaganda Department, in conjunction with the Detachment Staff, labors to produce these newsletters each month. You're the reason that Paul Hoeffer (Daetrin) was inspired, over a decade ago, to start the FISD. You're the reason that we do everything that we do here, every day, and you're the reason that someone will continue to do these things for as long as there are Stormtrooper costumers in need of assistance in the world. Thank you for doing what you do, and providing the inspiration and motivation for over a decade of Detachment leadership to continue doing what we do. The crew has done some truly awe-inspiring work this month. You're in for an amazing ride with this newsletter. There is a lot of history unveiled, a lot of history re-examined, and perhaps the most moving Memoir of a Stormtrooper that we will ever have the opportunity to read has been shared for each of us. I'm honored and humbled to serve as your Detachment Leader as we celebrate a decade of excellence in support of Troopers Helping Troopers throughout the world. Enjoy your newsletter, Stormtroopers! Happy Anniversary, FISD!! With Unquestioned Loyalty, Tim Waychoff TK-51878 "Dark CMF" Detachment Leader We bring to you the thoughts of the FISD's first Deployment Officer Scott M. to share his thoughts on the FISD past till present! When Scott was asked how the FISD was like back in the early days he replied: I think for me, I was just in awe of the Detachment and how much assistance was available to me back in 2007. Not only that, but wanting to push my kit to the next level and Paul having the forethought to allow us to "be better" without making other troopers feel inferior was an amazing step, and one Paul was very passionate about. There was a lot of turmoil over the "Elite Trooper" program, and it came with fear and push back, but the FISD stood firm to allow us to keep pushing the envelope. The EIB (or as it was initially called: "Elite Trooper Status") program was a great way to keep members active, engaged and always pushing the boundaries. Working with Paul to see the very first "requirements" list be put to the test and then formalizing them was a great honor, as was being the very first Deployment Officer. Making decals and sending swag was something I did for a few years that just kept in line with the motto "Troopers helping Troopers." I love how much that program has grown, well beyond my wildest dreams!! (I am sure Paul can recall numerous PM arguments about having the language in the details to support what was desired at the time) I remember having the honor to work with Ed to lead the FISD on our march from the Legion photo to the FISD Detachment photo shoot at Celebration IV. At the time, it was the biggest collections of Legion TK's in one place, and was also the photo from our very first group Detachment trading card!! That is me on the right of the FISD banner, and Ed DaSilva on the left!!! For me, my love of costuming started with the TK, and has just expanded to too many other kits for me to stay as connected with the FISD as I would have liked. But, to that end, having a place I can always come back to, check in, and see some of the same people I worked with on staff way back in the day is so awesome to see. The continued passion and desire to see the TK's be so amazing (especially with the new movies coming out) just is apparent in everything this detachment does. I am now and always will be a TK to the end. It was my first kit (and has undergone several improvements and changes over the years), and as I begin to start adding my wife to the TK ranks, as well as my son's first 501st approved kit was a TK, I will always be TK-4149, proud member of the FISD, the biggest (and best) detachment in the Legion!!! With unquestioned Loyalty, Scott M. Deployment Officer Emeritus And now a message from your Deputy Provost Marshall Eric (Tolo) Greetings Troopers, In the past months, I have notice members not respecting certain conduct etiquette we have on the FISD. The most noticeable are offensive and inappropriate language. I understand that some discussions can get animated with different point of views, but, insulting another member, will never help an argument, only create more tension. If you feel that you are being bullied, insulted, you see someone using inappropriate language; feel free to reach to anyone in the Staff. We have zero tolerance for these types of behavior. Don’t forget, we are here to have fun, meet new people and most important: Troopers Helping Troopers. As a refresher, I suggest reading the FISD Do’s and Don’ts right here: http://www.whitearmo...-dos-and-donts/ With unquestioned Loyalty, Eric Salottolo “Tolo” Deputy Provost Marshall Competition Announcement! Hello everyone, Some of you might have went for Celebration Europe, streamed it live, or even "experienced" Celebration from all the social media postings and photos. While we have to wait another year for the next one the party's not over yet for the FISD's 10th Birthday! And to celebrate it the IPM will be releasing a series of competitions. The first competition that will be announced is the Trooper's Log Competition: Write a short story involving yourself (a Stormtrooper), a Star Wars character, a new made up character or even all of them together! Darth Vader must be in the story in the form of a cameo or protagonist/antagonist. Word count limit to be decided. A background story or premise will be provided and the contestant must build the story around it. The competition will have a time limit and one winner will be decided. Don't worry there will be enough time for everyone in different timezones to participate. The competition rules and story premise will be announced on a separate thread so do look out for it! So what's the prize? Upon winning, FISD VIP (and also a member here) Brian Muir will mail his autograph directly to you! Brian Muir sculpted the helmet and armor of Darth Vader, the armor of the Stormtrooper, and various props and characters throughout the Star Wars Saga. The IPM released a special edition newsletter (may I add exactly 1 year ago on July 2015) featuring a Brian Muir interview that you can view here: July 2015 Newsletter - Brian Muir Edition Here's a short clip on the 501st which I thought was put very well together. Makes you proud to be part of the 501st! We also have a wonderfully written memoir thanks to Chris (v7sg) and Chris Berban. I uploaded the pictures with a touched yet heavy heart (you'll see what i meant when you get to the memoir). I believe it really reminds us why we do what we do and go through the pain, discomfort, and heat. Besides it being fun we also want to make a difference to those around us and make the world a brighter and happier place. We have a wonderful gift and it us up to us to benefit and bless others with it. With Unquestioned Loyalty, Evan Loh TK-24127 "Holnave (evan_loh)" FISD Public Relations Officer Cradle of Aviation Eternal Con - LI, NY The Cradle of Aviation Museum in Garden City Long Island NY hosted the Eternal Con event for 2016 featuring the 501st Legion's Empire City Garrison on Saturday June 11th and Sunday June 12th 2016 from 10:00am - 4:00pm. We had over a dozen Attendees from the Empire City Garrison, and congratulations to Johnny Arocho (TK-19140) and James Crichton (IC-33182) on their first troop! The CAM is Long Island's Air and Space museum, and features an actual unused Moon Lander, A10 Tank killer, and other incredible artifacts from our aviation history. They also have a Dome IMAX, motion rides, and some really impressive exhibits. They were very impressed by our appearance over the past 6 years, and they were thrilled to have us back to support the fourth annual Eternal Con. Eternal Con has become Long Island's premier Pop Culture expo featuring over 200 vendors, artists, and various celebrities signing autographs. This was great event for us, and it not only helped the museum, but we managed to raise $75 for Special Olympics at our table. We were not able to do Blast-A-Trooper due to the layout this year, but attendees were generous enough to volunteer donations for pictures or just to show their appreciation for what we do. Special thanks to John Trowbridge (TI-42070) the ECG Charity Rep, who did an hour long session being a wrangler to get the majority of those donations. We had a great table setup, despite being around a corner and at a dead end, but we made the best of it. Everyone was very professional and represented the legion in the best way possible, roaming the con, taking photos with guests, and answering questions from potential members at the table. The changing area was small and on the other end of the museum, but we made our own next to the table behind our Deathstar backdrop, which made it a bit easier for overflow. Thanks to the help of our volunteers both in and out of costume, we were able to run the table both days. The con was much bigger this year than anyone expected, and our contact at the Cradle indicated there were nearly ten thousand guests throughout the two day event. Thanks to everyone for their patience, it got a little crazy between the crowds at the con, and our location, but we made it work. A big thanks goes out to Chris Feehan who kept everyone organized as best as he could! More here: http://www.whitearmo...rnal-con-li-ny/ By: Steve, starsaber25, 10466 Humperdingle's Troop Diary Very happy to say that my first troop under the UKG 501st (Imperial Scottish Squad), has been completed. I had a great day, pretty much constant photo calls and lots of smiles on the faces of the kids and their families! Thanks to the guys who trooped with me (I'm the guy wearing white ) More here: http://www.whitearmo...es-troop-diary/ By: Mark, humperdingle, 22700 Northern Ireland comic con More here: http://www.whitearmo...land-comic-con/ By: Dale, Squaddiechef UKG troop for USAF Had the pleasure to troop at RAF Mildenhall again yesterday. It was the second time we had been invited to support the Jedi training academy at the base exchange. As it was also armed forces day in the UK, and as an ex service man, it was a fantastic opportunity to support the military community. The hospitality from the guys in the exchange was fantastic and the reaction from the people coming in was amazing, everyone was really appreciative of us being there. Really looking forward to the next opportunity to troop there and put some smiles on the faces of the families of our brothers and sisters from "across the pond" More here: http://www.whitearmo...troop-for-usaf/ By: Pete, WhiteRoseSwampy, 17606 Supanova 2016 Perth Western Australia (Supporting SIDS - Red Nose Day) 25th and 26th June 2016 TROOPERS: TB85421- gmrhodes13, BH7642- Kade, DZ4582 – Chivo, TD84001- Tahly, TI10996- mitchuru, TK10589- stevetheemu, TK5841- Evilcat, SL51164- DV64, TB20074- Wayne74, TK10469- BennyTK, TI22414- sinurt, TI14240- Sndeath, TK671- TK671, DZ11880 – RoyalRebel, CT79969- ParsleyBoi, TK77620- Darth Reign On a cold, wet morning, in a galaxy far far away, the troops all gathered in the Perth Convention Centre at 8am. After we all got a picture on the awesome Speeder bike (great work Chivo ) we all kitted up and got ready for the crowds. The 501st Desert Scorpion squad had an amazing display, and there seemed to be a continuous crowd waiting to try out the Speeder Bike. A few were frightened by the sudden movement of the resident Biker Scout or the sounds of the bike taking off!! All the wranglers were working really hard keeping the crowds in check, shaking those tins collecting lots of money for SIDS for kids and showing off their photography skills by helping the public take photos. There were a couple of pesky ewoks who came over for a photo as well as several Rey's and Lord Vader was reunited with his grandson and also found a female Vader :heart: !! All in all it was a great day and was an awesome turnout by our troops. CHARITY: SIDS for kids Total: just over $3500 Photos: More here: http://www.whitearmo...ay/#entry505556 By: Glen, gmrhodes13, 85421 With Unquestioned Loyalty, Glen "Q" Rhodes TK-85421 "gmrhodes13" Imperial Propaganda Department Howdy, Troops! A Fellow TK (v7sg), asked me for my most `Memorable Troop’. There have been a lot. Having one of the biggest smiles on my face while a very sick young boy named Luke (along with his twin sister Leia) walked our Squad around a hospital with his “Robot” (a rolling infusion pump) to visit all his friends. I mean seriously, how could a Star Wars Fan NOT name his twins Luke & Leia right? Getting cast to stand under a ¾ scale First Order TIE Fighter for 20 hours over two days in the Austin sun and rain was another. Never before have I arrested so many Rebel and Scavenger Scum, nor been Force Choked so much (you know you have to be animated for each and every one, choking sounds and all!). Watching a little girl get out of her wheelchair against her parents wishes to whip, nae nae, cupid shuffle and more with Vader and the rest of us Stormtroopers at a Pediatric Oncology Party, and to see the Happiness on the family’s faces after… But my most memorable Troop wasn’t a single event at all, but rather, an experience the course of just under 9 months with a young man to whom I and many others owe much gratitude. A young man named Parker Diaz. On a Tuesday afternoon June of 2011, I received an email from Lauren, one of our first Make-A-Wish contacts. A 10-year-old boy would be going into major surgery on Thursday and his Wish would be granted on Wednesday. His two favorite things being Lego & Star Wars, his Wish would be comprised of a Limo ride from San Antonio to Austin to have a shopping spree at the closest Lego Store (since we didn’t have one at the time in SA) with our Troopers waiting inside. I was still new to my job, and couldn’t take the next day off, but I emailed, called and texted the members of my Squad in Central Texas, and our guys turned out en force. He was shocked when he walked into the store and saw Vader and the Troopers. After the LEGO shopping spree, the Troops escorted him to Cheesecake Factory, in Armor, stopping at Build-A-Bear. Naturally, he grabbed a Vader Bear. After suiting down our troops joined them at the restaurant and took more pics around the Mall. Parker had his own entourage for the day. The Troops told me that when the Make-A-Wish folks told him to go get whatever he wanted in the store, Parker happily poured over the different Star Wars Lego Kits with a few Troopers. He said he liked the Death Star, but only grabbed two of the smaller kits, took them back to them and said Thank You. His dad explained, of course, that he could grab more. He said it was too expensive and it was tough to get him to grab more, but the Troops played with him to make a bit more fun; “Get this one, ‘cause it’s got me in it!!” That turned into a debate over who his favorite character was, and eventually he left with a number of different kits, large and small. Happier, certainly, but apparently it was clear that he didn’t think he needed all of them. After Lego, we heard from MAW later who said the family was “... so thankful for the wish and his dad said, ‘That day was so exciting and so special, and it really took Parker’s mind off things for one day. For one day, cancer wasn’t the focus in his life.’” The Adrenal Cancer was definitely at the forefront of every day, Parker wasn’t scared about it. He wore his “Don’t Worry, Be Happy” shirts with pride. He said that after he got better he was going to join the 501st as Boba Fett, as long as his Dad could be Jango. He wanted to do what we did. His surgery was successful, and over the next few months Parker fought and proved wrong every short-term prognosis that he was given. Lauren contacted me again in October regarding Parker after running into his family at another MAW event. She said he wasn’t doing very well at all, his doctors having given him a prognosis of three-six months, and his birthday was the following weekend. Parker had no idea he was that sick at the time, and she’d grown especially attached to him after being part of his wish. Heck, so had we; that Lego Troop in June made him our Squad’s very First Wish Kid. So again we rallied the Troops together, and surprised Parker that weekend at his Peter Piper Pizza Party; suiting up in the Kitchen and at our vehicles behind the restaurant. If you aren’t familiar with this chain or others like it, it’s a large family style pizza parlor with an arcade. Parker was visibly tired, but he definitely seemed to have a great time! We presented him with a certificate making him an honorary member of the Star Garrison and Commanding Officer For A Day, and I gave him my Star Garrison Patch. When he read the Commander portion he asked what it meant. I told him we would do whatever he wanted us to. He said, "I wanna play games with y'all." "You got it. What do you wanna play?" He paused a bit, and then, "You wanna race?" "Well, I can't since I can't sit down in this Stormtrooper armor, but our Biker Scout can!" "Okay! <pause> Then,... You wanna play Terminator?" "Absolutely, Parker! Lead the way!" We went straight to the new Terminator Arcade game, and I tried my best to aim well, but as we all know it's hard to see a thing through the green lenses. One of our TIE Pilots also jumped in and played with him. Afterwards, he raced with the Biker Scout we had and then went back to the table for cake and ice cream!! And he was excited to throw on a bucket for a quick pic too. We ran into Parker ourselves a few days later during our annual visit to the local American Cancer Society’s Boo Bash, and he was even more energetic, and wanted to get more pics with us, inspecting our costumes and talking about when he’d be Boba Fett. We received a few more updates from Parker and his dad; both of them emailed us a few times. Parker wanted to know how to get Boba, Jango, and Zam Wesell for himself, his dad and his dad’s girlfriend so they could all join the Legion. His dad emailed us about how much better the treatments were going, how much of a fighter Parker had become (something we could all see in him), how much better the scans looked as the masses diminished in size, and about how he couldn’t wait to get him into school. Then came the update we didn’t want. Things had taken another turn for the worse. The masses that were shrinking had tripled in size and the chemo treatments could not continue without bringing other detrimental effects. We chatted with MAW and the family, and we knew if we could do anything it had to happen right away. He was back in the hospital and by all accounts, he wouldn’t be leaving. We didn't know how many days he had, just that it was ‘days’. So, the call came again, and again we answered to the best of our ability. His eyesight was failing and yet he was still confident that he’d be better, and was ready to Troop with his dad. I was a handler for this one, and hugged his dad while we were there as hard as I could, and told him we’d be there for him. Parker passed a few short days after. The family asked as few of us to be pallbearers, and it was one of the hardest things I’ve done in armor. The helmets hid our tears, but it was an honor to be there for Parker and and his family. Those last few weeks were extremely tough on all of us in the squad after hearing that Parker had returned to the hospital. I can't thank the family enough for giving us an opportunity to be at the services, and I am extremely grateful to them for asking us to have the honor not only be pallbearers, but to perform a portion of that duty while in armor. Everything that we've done for Parker from the first time we were asked to help with his Wish until that day will likely always be the strongest reminders of why I am a member of the 501st Legion. I can't imagine a more fitting example of how being a Trooper can make a difference in a child's life, and how that child can make an even bigger difference in the lives of all those who get to know him. Every moment he was defiant, he fought every day against it, and chose not to be scared of it; not to worry. Parker was the very first "Wish Kid" whose Wish our Squad had a hand in granting, and the times that we shared with him and his family and with Make-A-Wish helped solidify the squad's relationship with the Foundation. We did some great things for Parker and his family, and the folks at the foundation know we will be there for any other wishes that the Central Texas Squad can help grant. I also know that many of of us have made him, his family, and his story a very important part of our lives. - Chris Berban TK-6427 Central Texas Squad Leader Star Garrison With Unquestioned Loyalty, Christian Burgos Hernandez TK-9539 "v7sg" Imperial Propaganda Department This month the 1st Imperial Stormtrooper Detachment would like to congratulate: Expert Infantry Badge Award: Patrick Fiasse "Tango Kilo" TK-69671 Blake Hartmann "Darth Blake" TK-52780 Christina Rotsaert "TKZombie" TK-21421 Stephen Burns "Burns1214" TK-60612 Mark Oram "markoram" TK-62756 Kalani Patterson "kman" TK-91423 Nick Counter "Sgt_Boodles" TK-52849 Sean Cho "MisterXero" TK-19803 May Wayne "devilmonking" TK-11119 Kai Bartels "TK-71715" TK-71715 Aaron Lutsch "DeathProof" TK-32794 Joe Nelsen "jodo28" TK-10287 Scott Williams "TK16390" TK-16390 David Arcia "illusionz_09" TK-11802 David Grimaldi "David Grimaldi" TK-18173 Gary Crowell "TK-22019" TK-22019 Nam Nguyen "Bushido" TK-3942 Juan Guerra "jguerr1" TK-10193 Taylor Dame "Tay_Dame" TK-28774 Jorge Maldonado "zv288bot" TK-23276 Manfred Mueller "Daelma" TK-22011 Joseph Chan "tk4949" TK-4949 Joe Marzocca "The Chief" TK-98239 Ryan McGee "KingYeti" TK-29464 Jerome Fabry "Yooda2004" TK-41274 Kris Hase "Haso" TK-29175 Centurion Award: Antonio López Claudio "toniltd" TK-17215 Christina Rotsaert "TKZombie" TK-21421 Chris Pearson "themaninthesuitcase" TK-10911 Gabriel Arroyo "y2gabe2" TK-83186 May Wayne "devilmonking" TK-11119 Stephen Burns "Burns1214" TK-60612 Lee Massey "Monster72SW" TK-29772 Oscar Arellano "acetilacetato" TK-28272 Matt McSweeney "SupRsloth" TK-50613 Aaron Lutsch "DeathProof" TK-32794 Mark Oram "markoram" TK-62756 David Grimaldi "David Grimaldi" TK-18173 Taylor Dame "Tay_Dame" TK-28774 Ryan McGee "KingYeti" TK-29464 Stand tall and be proud of what you have achieved troopers. You will now be deployed into the First Imperial Stormtrooper Detachment Advanced Tactics Roster. Make us proud troopers! The FISD is always looking for new applicants for our Advanced Tactics program so please do not hesitate to apply if you meet the standards! Our Deployment Officer and armorers are here to help and guide you through to success! Feel like your armor is up to standards and worth of recognition? Apply for the Expert Infantry Badge Program now! Want to go the extra mile, raise the standards of Stormtrooper armor, and be the envy of your peers? Apply for the Centurion Program now! Note: Applicants need to be EIB approved before applying for Centurion. With Unquestioned Loyalty, Evan Loh TK-24127 "Holnave (evan_loh)" FISD Public Relations Officer Don't Forget We're on Facebook and Twitter! Facebook: www.facebook.com/whitearmor If you're on FB, stop by and say hi, ask questions, and share stories! Twitter: www.twitter.com/FISD501st or @FISD501st follow FISD on Twitter! Instagram: www.instagram.com/501stfisd With Unquestioned Loyalty, Evan Loh TK-24127 "Holnave (evan_loh)" FISD Public Relations Officer On behalf of the 1st Imperial Stormtrooper Detachment Command Staff and the Imperial Propaganda Department, <End Transmission>

Very nice Merusk!

I think the sculptors were very talented. Brian Muir and Liz Moore have done an excellent job. But as you said previously maybe it's the execution of it. 1.5mm thick armour can crack easily. I don't see how the armour in the OT was actually bad looking. Unless you were referring to the troopers in the Tantive IV scene, which was one of the last scenes to be filmed. By then all the armour was broken and full of cracks and they had to patch it up with gaffa tape. I saw gaffa tape in TFA as well.

I'm just about to finish building your FOTK kit and now you release this..... Really looking forward to this thread. You get to have one of every armour because you make them! Thanks for documenting your work here.

Spec Ops are not, please don't let this thread die Greg! We're all dying to see this through!

Thank you Clint for taking your time to do this for all of us to see.

Andy's right. Really looking forward to this build thread Greg. Keep your eyes peeled to this page as they identified quite a few parts for R1 troopers already: https://www.facebook.com/PartsofSW/