26 Aug 2006 :: Vader's Fist - The Fighting 501st Legion

An International Internet-based Star Wars Imperial Costuming Club

It was nearly 30 years ago that Star Wars blazed across the screens of the world. Like many others I was caught in the magic of that movie and the ones that followed.

Jump forward 20 years and the re-release of the Original Trilogy in Special Edition format, that combined with the production of Episode One started a resurgence in popularity for the Star Wars Saga.

1997 was also the beginning of what would become The Fighting 501st Imperial Legion. Albin Johnson started a little website called 'Detention Block 2501' so people could send in photos of their Stormtrooper armour. This was the seed of the Legion. Back then there was maybe 20 members, now there is nearly 3000 members spread over 21 countries! The 501st has appeared in novels and in computer games based on the Star Wars Universe, as a way of showing Lucasfilms appreciation for the work that the Legion has done in keeping the Star Wars saga alive for fans and the general public alike.

The international hub for the Legion can be found at www.501st.com. From there you can find links to the various Garrisons and Outposts around the world, the local one being Outpost 42 Garrison.

To join you have to have a 'professional grade' costume based on any of the Imperial Characters from the Star Wars Movies. This also includes the various 'Bad Guys' as well, Bounty Hunters, Tusken Raiders and the Prequel Sith Lords.

If you're interested in joining, please email me at [email protected]. I'd be pleased to hear from you.

While we are a relatively quiet Garrison compared to our Stateside brethren, we are always available for any Charity work, so please feel free to spread the work if you know of anyone that could benefit from our services. If you'd prefer to link up with us in the flesh, we are now a regular fixture at the Local Armageddon sci-fi expos, held annually in Wellington and Auckland, with Christchurch starting next year. We are also beginning to appear at the annual Queenstown Winter Festival.

We'd love to see you there!

Yours in Service to the Empire,

BH-2776
Captain, Outpost 42 Garrison New Zealand

Related link: www.Outpost42.co.nz
Related link: www.501st.com
Related article: Jedi Assembly - Bringing Balance to the Force.