Phoenix Suns ~vs~ Houston Rockets

A Sun’s Game. A pretty normal occurance. But not when Star Wars takes center court. The Sun’s wanted Star Wars, LFL called and the DSG responded, as well as the Rebel Legion and the R2 Builders Club. En force!

Sunday, April 11^th, 2010 the fan’s of the Sun’s and Star Wars alike were treated to not only a great game but also to their favorite characters from all six of the Star Wars Films.

Clones, Stormtroopers, Biker Scouts. Rebel and Imperial Pilots, Darth Maul, Boba and Jango Fett, Princess Leia (during her unfortunate stint as Jabba the Hutt’s slavegirl), R2D2 and of course Darth Vader all came out to thrill their fans.

Pregame, the house lights darkened, and the floor was flanked on either side as the troops marched to face off, center court. The crowd cheered and cameras flashed as Lord Vader held up his Light Saber and escorted his group away.

There were several other appearances of various troopers all around the stadium from before the pregame showdown up until halftime, when the crowds were again treated to up close and personal experiences with their favorite characters.

All in all it was a great success. The Suns, of course, blasted the Rockets right back to Houston and everyone enjoyed seeing the Star Wars Galaxy in their very own front yard.

Here is a link directly to the NBA.com site showing some highlights of the evening, and this shows many still shots, again from the NBA website.

A HUGE Thank You to all who came out to support a great cause, as a portion of every ticket sold went directly to The Suns Foundation, which is a 501(c)(3) that supports various children’s charities’, and once again enjoy the camaraderie of our fellow troopers.

By: Will Rogers (TK-2855)

March 26th – 28th, Phoenix Symphony Hall – Phoenix, Arizona

Fans of the symphony and of sci-fi got a treat this last weekend. “Star Wars Mania” is one of The Phoenix Symphony’s themed Family Concerts series, which is part of the Education and Community Outreach Department.

In partnership with ‘The Rebel Legion’, ‘Mando Mercs’, and the ‘R2 Builders Club’, the Dune Sea Garrison chapter of the 501st Legion were honoured guests at the symphony for performances Friday evening, Saturday, Saturday evening, and Sunday.

More than 30 members from the various groups participated in all or some of the events. Prior to the shows and in between, the troopers were mingling with the crowds, taking pictures and all in all having a great time.

Special guest conductor, Bob Moody was almost giddy with excitement when he saw the sheer volume of support for this very special and personal event. At every performance, he proudly introduced the troopers and invited them onstage. He even helped out a couple of Jedi Knights in a duel with Darth Vader. At one point, during a fierce clash between Lord Vader and some young Jedi, he dropped his baton and wielding his own light saber, leapt off the podium (wearing a Jedi robe of his own), and used the force to push the Dark Sith Lord off stage. Each and every time the crowd, children and adults alike, cheered and loved it.

This was a wonderful family event. We felt very welcomed by the orchestra, staff and everyone involved. They all agreed that the presence of the force (both dark and light) was much appreciated and welcomed for future events.

By: Will Rogers (TK-2855)