Member of the Month: November 2009

Though Thanksgiving has come and gone, we’re giving our thanks this month to one of our newest members: Alan Young.

Alan is the 501st Legion’s AR-3873.

The AR indicates that Alan is an ARC trooper (or Advanced Recon Commando/Clone trooper).

Alan is a military veteran, domesticated father, and a student working toward his degree in Human Resources.  He has been representing the 501st proudly in Pearl, MS since September.

As with all Member of the Month articles, I’ll sit down with each member and get a little personal insight just for you all to enjoy:

RR: Why did you decide to join the 501st?

AR-3873: I joined because of my love for Star Wars and then being able to go out into the community and spread happiness to kids for worthy events, even if we are the “Bad Guys.”

RR: What does being a member of the 501st mean to you?

AR-3873: Being a member of the 501st gives me a place to be with my fellow geeks and geek out on stuff I love.

RR: Even though you’ve only been attached to the 501st for a couple months, what is your most memorable moment?

AR-3873: My most memorable experience so far is been at the Boo at the Zoo as a 501ster, but seeing the group at the parade at Disney World was the best. I was also giddy when I got my TKID.

RR: It’s hard, I know, but describe the 501st in one word for us.

AR-3873: The 501st in one word…. Community

RR: What would you say to someone who was thinking about joining?

AR-3873: I would have to send them through the geek trials first. Then tell them how great it is and how friendly everyone is.

**Editor’s note… even though I know how many children Han and Leia had, how Chewbacca died, who killed Luke’s wife, and much more stuff about Star Wars – you aren’t required to know anything about Star Wars (beyond the costuming) to join the 501st… though it helps with the relationship amongst your brothers in the 501st.

RR: As someone who has recently JUST completed his outfit, can you briefly explain the process and what to expect for those who may be interested in joining?

AR-3783: As someone that has completed my costume recently, I would advise those looking to join to seek out others on message boards and ask a lot of questions so to get your outfit right.

**Editors note:  As Mississippi’s definitive Star Wars costuming group, we highly suggest using all the resources you can find to help you get your costume right.  There are other groups, even here in Mississippi, who put together Star Wars costumes without putting much thought into accuracy.  Being a professional costuming group means getting the costume right.  You won’t find members of the Rancor Raiders parading around town in junk, we put in the time and effort necessary for accuracy.  All of us are willing to help in any way that we can to get you through the application process.

Alan, thanks for taking the time to share a bit with all of us.  Looking forward to trooping with you again soon!