Dark PWF

Not a solution, as I cannot "Fix Photobucket" I discovered just about two days ago when I encountered the same "login loop" there, that if I create an album, and open it I am able to upload photos directly into an album. That might help as a work-around in the meantime. Hopefully, they get their stuff together soon.

It is obvious that each of you has twice the thirst for Detachment news and knowledge that the average member has!

http://whitearmor.net/images/newsletter2015/inthisissue.png In Memoriam From the DL Around the Detachment Notable Troops Memoirs of a Stormtrooper Just For Fun Advanced Tactics Awards Follow FISD http://whitearmor.net/images/newsletter2015/inmemoriam.png Thomas J. "TJ" McIntire III TK/SL 11246 Born: April 11, 1979 Passed at 12:06 AM on November 18, 2016. "TJ was an amazing man, a loving husband and father, and a true friend. He knew his best friend and wife Kristen for over twenty one years they were married for twelve. TJ had two wonderful sons Liam and Owen, who also shared his love of Star Wars. They would often be seen at events in their little Stormtrooper’s costumes. His charm, wit and sincerity influenced many people. He forgot more about the original trilogy Stormtroopers than most people will ever learn. TJ helped at minimum eight other members get their Stormtroopers built and submitted to the 501st Legion. I believe that not one of them got differed for changes and were accepted on the first try. Part of TJ’s weekly routine was to go to the Snoot Studio (Mark Santucci’s house) every Tuesday night to help build costumes. TJ helped in some way almost every member in Western Pennsylvania with their costumes. TJ would selflessly sit down with our cadets at events to give them pointers on how to do their builds. TJ never wanted the spotlight, but after a couple of years the Garrison Carida Command took notice. He was asked and accepted a position as an Advisor for our Imperial Academy. When it came to events TJ was all about working together to have fun and make a difference. TJ’s TK was a clown in white armor. He would even get down on his knee if that is what it took to be able to bring a smile to a child’s face. TJ was blessed with several opportunities including doing Weird Al Yankovic concerts, and Pittsburgh Pirates Star Wars Night, he always took time to reflect on the opportunity he was given. It was the charity events that we do that he loved the most. During our library events we have the kids do a Wookie howl competition. TJ as a Stormtrooper would step up to volunteer, without a microphone he would be loud enough to echo through the library. Often times TJ was the first one ready to go and the last one to suit down. This past summer TJ got his Darth Vader approved and his first troop was doing a three and a half mile 4th of July parade. We were instructed that we could not stop along the route. Keeping that in the back of his mind he powered through the hills of Pittsburgh. But again doing it as only TJ could he saw a WW II Navy Veteran, he made a point to go over to talk to him and yes the parade did come to a halt for that moment. Word can not describe how caring, creative and passionate of a person TJ was. He would be the guy to lend a hand for all of the grunt work setting up or tearing down from a convention. TJ would be the guy sitting in a changing room helping someone if part of a costume failed. TJ knew how to have fun. After large troops he would sip on his aged Scotch and be fancy. If you would have a drink with him he would give you a monocle to be fancy as well. You will be missed TJ Buckets off to one of the bad guys who did good things." -TK-74472- http://501stgarrisoncarida.org/forum/uploads/monthly_2016_11/5831c769dd577_ScreenShot2016-11-20at10_54_15AM.png.6ec97d28fd339c498d6609f7f3acd40f.png A Fundraiser has been started on his behalf to help his family. Patches, Stickers and Bracelets are being made to anyone who donates. Please visit this link for details. https://m.facebook.c...518&id=60717521 http://whitearmor.net/images/newsletter2015/fromthedetachmentleader.png Greetings From the Dark Side, Stormtrooper Aficionados! As November closes out, and December brings with it whispers of Christmas, I cannot help but reflect on our recent American Thanksgiving holiday. Traditionally, we look at our lives and reflect on the things that we are thankful for, and very near the top of my list is the FISD. As a result of my affiliation with this Detachment Forum for going on four years now, I have met a great many of you - quite a few in person even - and I expect that in time I will meet a great many more. By and large, the membership of the FISD is one filled with people from all parts of this globe; people from all different backgrounds; people from all walks of life; people with different lifestyles; people who, outside of a slightly unusual love of shiny white plastic may not have much in common with each other at all. Somehow though, no matter what is happening around each of us as individuals, we are able to put on blinders to our differences and truly focus on the common passion that binds all of us together. That is a beautiful thing. It really is, and I am indeed truly thankful for each of you and what you add to the lives of our other members here at the Detachment. In times of need, someone here always steps up to help and for what it's worth, I think that that is one of the highest compliments that someone can pay to their fellow human beings. You're all remarkable in your own rights, and I am thankful for that without question. Rogue One Since tickets recently went on sale, I am sure that we all have our plans nearly solidified to see (or in some cases, not see) Rogue One. Regardless of your thoughts about another prequel, it is still just an exciting time to be a fan of Star Wars, as the Star Wars universe is alive and well and Rogue One will most certainly leave its mark on the legacy of the saga. We are only a few days away from the premiere right now, and by the time that we publish the next edition of the FISD Newsletter, I am confident that this forum will be all a-flutter with discussion about the movie. Everyone be safe, and have a good time. Share good times with good friends - like the people I mentioned above. We're all in this together! What Lies Ahead.. This month, just as in every other, the Newsletter Team has put in some diligent efforts to bring you another fun ride. I hope that you'll all take the time to read through all of it, and if a particular piece strikes a chord with you, be sure to post a comment and let us know about it! As always, if you feel like you'd like to be a bigger part of the goings-on here at FISD, reach out to any of the Staff members, or Attaches, and let someone know that you're interested in doing so. We're always looking for members who want to do more. Believe me, we'll find a way to effectively channel your energy and desire. We're happy to have your help. Once again, our Advanced Tactics numbers have continued to expand. Unofficially, I believe we are on track for our best year ever in this regard within the Detachment. That is fully a reflection of the commitment of our members to building the best looking costumes that the world and the Legion will ever see. Thank you all for your desire to raise the bar, and look your best. I am a firm believer that we are entrusted with this gift - the ability to rock our Star Wars costumes with the blessings of Lucasfilm - because of the respect that we have always shown for the brand, as a community. I also believe that we owe it to the fans, to look our very best whenever we do it, and that's a big responsibility that we assume. I know that each of you is up to the task, and I'm thankful for that! Enjoy your newlsetter, everyone! With Unquestioned Loyalty, Tim Waychoff TK-51878 "Dark CMF" Detachment Leader http://whitearmor.net/images/newsletter2015/aroundthedetachment.png COMPETITION WINNERS! We have a competition winner! Below is the winning entry for the Trooper Log competition, submitted by Markus: 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 below Rhene considered a strategy feverishly together with Captain Wordo, the commander of their Stormtrooper division. After a moment Wordo said: "We ally with those rebels." Agent Rhene, looking at him with big eyes, was stunned. Was she surrounded by traitors? But then she realized... it would be better first to obliterate the traitors and afterwards to apprehend the probably not as well-trained rebels than vice versa. In this way they might get even information of the arrested rebels about their base which would be obviously situated nearby. That would certainly bring her and her Stormtroopers an honor by Lord Vader. At that thought a brief smile flashed on her lips. Rhene approvingly nodded to Captain Wordo who then gave hand signals to his men so they would know what to do. Shortly afterwards, the Stormtrooper from their coverage opened the fire on Tritan and his men. Aigo Tel, the leader of the small rebel group, did not realize who he had to thank for the new support. He supposed that some of his men had advanced into the base and put from their new position the Stormtrooper under fire. So, the blaster fire of the rebels only turned against the traitors. The traitors who now had to fight against two sides lost more and more people in the gun battle. "Damn, kill them, kill them ALL", roared Tritan more and more desperate. Red blaster bolts flashed wildly through the smokefilled hall. Finally Tritan tried to steal away cowardly. But Captain Wordo recognized the situation and ran with some of his men bravely in a crouched stance to the end of the hall, where the traitors had entrenched. The Elite Stormtrooper disarmed the remaining traitors curtly, while Captain Wordo followed the renegade leader. The rebels had surprisingly, inserted a ceasefire when suddenly the Stormtrooper ran from the supposed secure side through the hall. Too late, Aigo Tel saw, that something strange was going on. Before he or one of the other rebels could open the fire again, Rhene's men have captured them. Agent Rhene said: "Sergeant Angor, ask for reinforcement and keep an eye on this scum" She threw to both - the rebels and the surviving traitors - a contemptuous look. "Ma'am, yes, Ma'am", replied Angor. Rhene nodded and then ran into the direction, in which Tritan and Wordo disappeared a few moments ago. Captain Wordo followed Tritan through several corridors, until he came to a large, dark hall. Suddenly he heard footsteps behind him ... he spun around ... and looked into the face of Agent Rhene. "Surprise", she whispered and smiled briefly before her eyes became serious again: "Where is Tritan?" Wordo answered: "I followed him up here.” Carefully, both advanced further into the darkness of the hall. As they were about in the middle of the hall, a red lightsaber flashed on just before them... a short chop and a headless Overseer Tritan fell at their feet ... Lord Vader and the reinforcement were already there. In Addition to the IPM's Trooper Log Contest, the Attaches Hosted a Photo Contest This was a fun contest, that was over very quickly, so if you happened to blink, you might have missed it. The contest required Troopers to submit two very specific photos of themselves in armor, in public, in the same response, and TK-10488 of the Alabama Garrison (Gotta love the Empire Strikes Bama!) was quick to get photos taken and submitted to claim a very excellent prize! You can see the contest details and winning entry here: Imperial Jacket Contest With Unquestioned Loyalty, Evan Loh TK-24127 "Holnave" FISD Public Relations Officer New Armor Option Officially Hits The Market Recently, ANOVOS published notification of the full public release of their First Order Stormtrooper kits for sale. The period of introductory pricing, has expired, and the kits are now available for preorder with a shipping time frame of the 3rd Quarter of 2017. You can find the sales information here: ANOVOS First Order Stormtrooper Kit Discussion about the kit has been ongoing here at the FISD for some time and at last, you'll be able to make a decision about whether the kit is right for you and your budget. Here is a where a lot of the discussion is happening: ANOVOS TFA Preorder Q and A. With Unquestioned Loyalty, Tim Waychoff TK-51878 "Dark CMF" Detachment Leader http://whitearmor.net/images/newsletter2015/notabletroops.png 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. Boo at the Zoo More here: http://www.whitearmo...boo-at-the-zoo/ By: Glen, gmrhodes13, TK85421 RBC Bank Race for The Kids 16th Oct 2016 More here: http://www.whitearmo...-16th-oct-2016/ By: Ahmad, ayen_s, TK18004 New York Comic Con More here: http://www.whitearmo...-city-garrison/ By: Steve, starsaber25 , TK10466 Telethon Kids Carnival http://i1251.photobucket.com/albums/hh552/glenmurry/Approvals/tele1.jpg http://i1251.photobucket.com/albums/hh552/glenmurry/Approvals/tele2.jpg More here: Day 1 http://www.whitearmo...carnival-day-1/, Day 2 http://www.whitearmo...carnival-day-2/ By: Glen, gmrhodes13, TK85421 Candlelighter's Camp CLIFF troop http://i.imgur.com/mfhjr0Y.jpg http://i.imgur.com/YQarRt4.jpg More here: http://www.whitearmo...mp-cliff-troop/ By: Jack, SkulShurtugalTCG , TK69004 AsiaPOP Comicon Manila 2016 More here: http://www.whitearmo...on-manila-2016/ By: Mark, themacalu, TK43210 Bricktober http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb256/dan_peeters/14706852_10154649273999577_3496630971910059639_o.jpg http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161009/36a562940dc4fe27fd3decd3f2979cb4.jpg More here: Day 1 http://www.whitearmo...icktober-day-1/, Day 2 http://www.whitearmo...icktober-day-2/ By: Glen, gmrhodes13, TK85421 First Imperial March - Make a Wish Foundation http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161101/018d1c19227fa8a5e2a4a1abdc7235ed.jpg http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161101/99e16eed9631b2d392ac636cdef03eb5.jpg More here: http://www.whitearmo...ish-foundation/ By: Preston, Pretzel, TK91488 With Unquestioned Loyalty, Glen "Q" Rhodes TK-85421 "gmrhodes13" Imperial Propaganda Department This month's memoir comes from Stephanie Cutler from the Georgia Garrison: A long time ago, in a Garrison far, far away… There lived a girl who loved all things Star Wars. Though she did not know she was surrounded by others like her, she knew that what her father had fostered in her upbringing was something special. As a child, the endless pencils inserted into the wheels of the cassettes that refused to rewind, the family weekends re-watching the trilogy, taping and timing the commercials so it wouldn’t interrupt the recordings beyond a flinch in the action, and the homemade trivia games hosted around a Saturday evening meal where her father reigned as the King of All Things Star Wars made her believe. When his body failed him, she took that love and remembered him. Fifteen years later, the same girl would see a preview for a movie and decide that she wanted to be a part of that world again. So she dressed up as a dirty Rebel, contacted a Rebel Legion Base Commander, and arrived at a parade for Children’s Hospital of Atlanta. She pulled up and parked, hesitantly at first, and as she passed rows upon rows of decorated cars, she faltered. “What am I doing?”, she asked herself. As she got out, a man drove up next to her. He got out, smiled, and asked her if she needed help. He introduced himself. They spoke at length, discovering that they were indeed neighbors, living only a few miles from each other. Small world. He spent the rest of his troop encouraging her and introducing her to everyone in the 501st Legion and the Rebel Legion that had come together to troop the cause. As she walked with them all together, she was reminded of her childhood, of her father’s words, and his encouragement to be whoever she wanted to be. The white armor was beautiful; it was uniting and ambivalent, but also anonymous and empowering. There was only one road for her, so she decided to build it. Everyone she met was inviting and welcome, and she knew she was home. She was in white armor within the month by the graciousness of her Garrison, her Detachment, armor parties, late night messages, and her newfound friends. Ten months later and many troops in-between, she woke up before dawn for the Paint Gwinnett Pink Breast Cancer Walk. Her mother had been diagnosed with breast cancer three years earlier; her father had died of brain cancer 15 years ago. She wasn’t ready, even though the years had dulled her memory. She snapped the line 24’s, attached the industrial Velcro, and pulled on the mask. She slipped among the crowds posing for pictures, letting little girls try on her helmet, and snapping selfies with teenage girls. She was doing something good. She was living her nerd dreams; dressing up as a Stormtrooper and becoming the anonymous force behind the helmet and being a positive influence in the lives of people who just needed to take a picture with a strong woman who beat all the odds. #badguysdoinggood And just as she turned to leave, she realized why she was here. She didn’t have a favorite troop. *I* didn’t have a favorite troop, but they were all the culmination of something special. They were all my favorite opportunities to honor the people who had placed the love of Star Wars in me, those who have shaped my morals, and the friends I had made along the way. We are Legion. We are White Armor. We are unique, we are together, and we create those memories and safe spaces in time that allow us to honor those rare moments. As I watched the runners leave the starting line I realized that somewhere out there in that crowd was a girl whose father has left her too early, and that all she needed to see was an older version of herself who would honor him and carry on with the things they used to do together. It wouldn’t be apparent to her now and it wouldn’t be obvious, but it was the least the girl trooper at the starting line could do for her. She was me. I am her. I am White Armor. I am Legacy. TK-92272 With Unquestioned Loyalty Christian Burgos Hernández TK 9539 "v7sg" Imperial Propaganda Department http://whitearmor.net/images/newsletter2015/justforfun.png Of course, many of our United States based Stormtroopers recently observed the Thanksgiving Holiday with the locals. While some locals have fun with the Earth-based stereotypes about our alleged lack of accuracy in manners like this: http://i940.photobucket.com/albums/ad248/DarkCMF/November%202016%20FISD%20Newsletter/Stormtrooper%20Thanksgiving%201_zpsv9yncmtl.jpg[/url] Other, more knowledgeable locals shared in some rather excellent feasts, courtesy of our expert marksmanship! http://i940.photobucket.com/albums/ad248/DarkCMF/November%202016%20FISD%20Newsletter/Stormtrooper%20Thanksgiving%202_zpsffwbley2.jpg With Unquestioned Loyalty, Tim Waychoff TK-51878 "Dark CMF" Detachment Leader http://whitearmor.net/images/newsletter2015/advancedtactics.png This month the 1st Imperial Stormtrooper Detachment would like to congratulate: Expert Infantry Badge Award: http://www.whitearmor.net/eib/expert_infantry_badge1.png Harald Suele "Garraxo" TK-16468 Mark Bradley "Humperdingle" TK-22700 Jose O'Kean "Oki" TK-15245 Marco Bossow "Atin" TK-62726 H. David Phillips "Redbeard" TK-4765 Eric Ott "Silverdollar22" TK-42195 Derrick Meade "Kamikaze" TK-11778 Christopher Bailey "Chewy" TK-66402 Paul Wilde "BritBulldog" TK-22610 Oscar Gonzalez "Bloodwalker" TK-61138 Centurion Award: http://www.whitearmor.net/eib/centurion_badge.png Mike Kreamer "Nukem25rs" TK-71508 Robert Forster "Moofmilker" TK-31666 Harald Suele "Garraxo" TK-16468 Timothy Jones "TeaJay" TK-12864 Randy Abramson "Magni" TK-16127 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 http://whitearmor.net/images/newsletter2015/followfisd.png 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>

To those of you celebrating Thanksgiving today (now that it's about to end), I hope that you enjoyed a festive day with family, friends, and/or loved ones, and some delicious food!<br><br> Happy Thanksgiving!

You are all doing a lot of great and clearly passionate research on this costume, and that is appreciated on so many different levels. I just wanted to take a few moments to chime in here to weigh in on a few things that are being discussed at length and to assure you that I'm quietly paying attention to your discussion and the work that is going on. Weathering is one of those things that I feel is best left to happen on its own for the overwhelming majority of TK-based costumes. Personally, I don't like the idea of requiring weathering - especially for basic level approval. Rather, I encourage the idea of allowing it to happen up to a certain degree. For example, in the recently completed and approved CRL for Captain Phasma, the following note appears: "Note: Armor weathering: Captain Phasma's hard armor parts may be slightly weathered with dirt, smudges, and fingerprints. Battle damage or heavy weathering is not allowed." As there is precedent set for this approach in the FISD CRL development and approval process, this is the approach that I would be in support of with regard to this costume as well. The color of the soles of the boots, and the painted or unpainted indents are, to me, the perfect type of details that would ultimately be incorporated in Level 2 or perhaps Level 3 costume approval. At the end of the day, we want people to wear properly accurate costumes, but we also want to be careful that we do not set basic level approval at a bar high enough to dissuade, or discourage members and we also want to allow room for improvement in the costume standards. As such, I would say that for basic approval the boot soles would have one or two options but for higher levels they must match what is determined to be seen on screen most consistently. The same thinking applies for the painted indents for me. They both provide a simple and attainable standard for improvement of the costume and therefore are probably best applied at advanced levels of approval. Just a quick note, as I said... You are all doing some awesome stuff here. Thank you. We'll begin compiling this CRL for submission in January, so if you have people who are building good looking kits, begin considering photos for use in the CRL. At the end of the day, it was photo approval that took us so long with the Captain Phasma CRL because we wanted it done right the first time, as opposed to "we can always update it later." As a new to the Legion costume, the FISD will do it right, the first time.

Great work Trooper!!! (even if your armor is a little dirty. )

Yeah, WOW, that was some amazing work on that thigh! Truly impressive.

Done!! Tremendous thanks to our anonymous web guru!!! LoL

Heston, can you share some pictures that indicate what we'd need to do to change the batteries? Open compartments, etc?

If you're not careful, it can be used for removing large chunks of flesh from fingers. At least that's what I've heard. Theoretically, it is pretty painful if that happens, again not that I would know personally. (Seriously, I do know from experience, and it totally hurts. LoL. Make sure that you stay aware of that spot and if you have a guard for that one, ensure that it stays in place! I have the same model that Kalani showed above, and my guard vibrated off of the table in between parts, causing the bloody accident.) As everyone has said, I also agree that using two hands on the plastic with the table-top is the way to go.

Question has been posed to the ones I hope can be of assistance. Thank you for the bump.

Very possibly. YES!!!

I think that looking at it, you're both right. The Detonator definitely looks to be more accurate in some ways, but the wrist/commo boxes on the inside of the forearms look like they'll be slightly less accurate, since they're molded directly onto the forearms, as opposed to added on separately. I agree that there will be much sharper details and cleaner lines in the kit than the prototype/marketing kits had, but as Paul said, the way that they're molded may reduce a bit of detail here and there.

Jon, How long has it been since you reached out to them? Please keep in mind that this is not how they earn their living. Since you mentioned the larger trooper friendly kits, there are two that I immediately think of. One of them is usually pretty quick to respond, the other can take a week or two because he travels a lot for work. if it hasn't been two weeks, I wouldn't worry too much about it just yet. If you want to get into specifics, feel free to shoot me a PM. Hang in there, we'll see you white and shiny yet. Tim

Yeah... That may have some stellar appeal to the non-501st crowd, but around here especially, we've all got very nice looking Stormtroopers for much less money!

Nice work Dave!!! I'll have to agree that it is probably the heavy resin E-11 that keeps the holster sitting properly. Mine is fairly beastly as E-11s and weight are concerned, and I've never had an issue (on the rare occurrences that I holster it) keeping it sitting nicely like Dave's does in the photos above.

Thanks, Mark. Braff, as Mark pointed out above, the approval will come by way of your local Garrison Membership Liaison (GML). Photos will have to be submitted to the GML for approval. If you need any help with determining who to submit them to, please let us know, and we'll get you in touch with them. Best of luck!

Yes, it will apply to HWT. There is a glitch in the Legion forum's editing permissions that has to be fixed first. Once that is done, I'll be updating that wording as well.

Some armor kits have the notches in them when they are made. This provides guidance for builders of those kits, without confusing things or causing problems for those who do not have them, but may wish to add them, or may choose not to add them. Yes, the notches are optional, and the diagram you shared is correct in its interpretation of the CRL.

I didn't expect much in the way of weeping, wailing, or gnashing of teeth from either of you two.

Back in April, we held rather lengthy discussion and vote processes with regards to a CRL change to the kidney notches. As of today, 1 November 2016, the change discussed and voted on by the membership of FISD has been put in place, and it is now effective. With the new wording, the notches are not required, but are more clearly defined for Troopers and would-be Troopers who need to put shims in their armor. The new wording of the CRL, with regard to the Kidney Notches is: Cut-out notches at the bottom of right and left sides of the Kidney Armor are optional. If present, each notch is approximately 22 mm tall and the back of the notch ideally is aligned with the front edges of the Posterior Armor plate.

Thank you for the follow-up, Clint. As always, you do FISD proud!

In Memoriam From the DL Around the Detachment Notable Troops Just For Fun Advanced Tactics Awards Follow FISD Samuel "Kessel Run" Kisselburg TK-85254 When I heard of Sam's passing it was a real downer for me. Sam was the previous PRO and was one of those that showed me the ropes of doing the Newsletter. He also helped to get my foot in to the figurative door to contribute my first Q&A Newsletter article a few years back. Without Sam the newsletter wouldn't be what it is today. It was also shocking to realize that the messages I sent to him (talking about his love for modeling the Battlestar Galactica ships) were also not too long ago. It is indeed a great loss to the community and the 501st and I will always consider him my family despite being miles apart. But what I'll remember him most was that he loved his daughter, family, and friends dearly. If anyone has any personal experience with Sam please share them in the comments below so we can celebrate his life. Rest in Peace Sam and may the Force be with you always. Buckets off troopers. With Unquestioned Loyalty, Evan Loh TK-24127 "Holnave" FISD Public Relations Officer Greetings One and All! So we have now passed the mid-point of this Legion year and as typically happens, life jumps up and gets in the way of plans and commitments for some of our esteemed colleagues. Having said that, have you - the reader at home (or at work if you're here on Earth-bound company time like me) - found yourself asking yourself: "Self, wouldn't it be cool to be involved with the FISD in a larger capacity? I mean, to help make all of the cool stuff happen for everyone, even more than I do by posting my super awesome build thread, and welcoming people here all of the time?" If you've caught yourself asking that very question - or maybe one that is dramatically similar in tone/content - If you believe that you have the necessary skills, commitment, and desire to make an even larger difference to the global community of Imperial Stormtroopers than you already do, then I'm making an open invitation to all of you to reach out to us here on the Detachment Staff and let us know if you can be of assistance for remainder of the year (through February of 2017). We have had a rather large injection of Darth Life in our Imperial Propaganda Ministry (IPM) and our Web Team, so if you have skills that fit those bills, we'd love to hear from you. Our Newsletter team has put together an incredibly fun issue for you to enjoy this month. Be sure to read it all the way through because even though they're a little depleted right now, they've continued to raise the bar in what they do here every month. I'm always blown away by how they consistently manage to find more great content to share with you. Of course, that content by and large comes from what each and every one of you do on a daily basis out there in the name of the Empire, so the more you share what you have been up to the easier it is for them to find those hidden gems. So, Since it is Halloween... Be sure to spread the love of costuming, and give compliments and kudos to all of those kids and their parents who show up with a costume today/tonight. Perhaps the praise that you give some child today will plant a seed in them that grows into a full-fledged love of costuming and looking for any opportunity to don a cool costume at any time, to make someone else's day just a little bit brighter. Speaking of Making Someone Else's Day a Little Brighter... TK4205 made a post last night, that shared a situation which is very worthy of every bit of day brightening that we are capable of sharing. Take a look at his post right here CALLING ALL FAVORS and see if there is something that you, or someone that you know can do to help out with this one. Okay, the Real World Beckons... I have a few bits of work to slag through, and then I have to stop and buy some candy to distribute tonight, because there is at least one adult (who may or may not be the DL here) in my house that cannot be trusted to not eat the Trick or Treat Candy prior to Halloween. Have a great time out there Troopers, and be sure to get some great pictures of the festivities that you encounter, so that you can share them with everyone in the coming days. In the next two months, we are going to be inundated with Troop requests for events surrounding the release of Rogue One - A Star Wars Story, and many other events as the Christmas season approaches. Keep your focus on why you do what we do, because we all have our own reasons for doing our awesomely nerdy and cool plastic spaceman gig. Have fun out there, and be safe. Make someone's day brighter and for a little while, make their life a little bit better along the way. Pay it forward. We are truly fortunate to have the opportunities that we have, and together we change lives in small and large ways. Some of the impact that we have, we will never know about at all. One last note before I close this one up: Our list of EIB and Centurion Applications and awards continues to grow at an amazingly awesome rate! Thanks to Andrew (Sly11) and Tony (UKSWRATH) for their diligenceand hard work in making these awards possible for all of you amazing applicants, who are doing the truly daunting work of building and/or upgrading your armor so that you can make the best possible impression of the Star Wars universe for fans all over the world! Until next time! With Unquestioned Loyalty, Tim Waychoff TK-51878 "Dark CMF" Detachment Leader Do you find yourself on the FISD site way more than you ever thought you would? Do you like helping new folks and sharing your knowledge of all things Shiny White Armor related? You may be just the person we need in the Imperial Attache program! We are looking for motivated, knowledgeable Troopers to get involved with assisting new recruits and present TKs with a wide range of needs and information. No, you don't have to be an armor "expert" by any means, but the more you know the more it will help. In addition we also offer advice and encouragement to potential EIB and Centurion candidates, but it is not necessarily a requirement that you be at those levels to join the Attaches. If you would like more information, please check out this thread: http://www.whitearmo...ttaché-program/, and if you should have any questions, please feel free to contact me via PM. To find your local Attache, they are listed here: http://www.whitearmo...l-attache-list/ That being said, On behalf of the FISD, it is my privilege and honor to welcome the following new members to the Imperial Attache program! These Troopers are a highly valued part of the FISD, and are here to help, so contact them if you need assistance. Name Screen name Unit AUGUST Kalani kman SoCal Garrison Paul Strength Star Garrison SEPTEMBER Christian Novak Dimon German Garrison Gary Sentry71 Midwest Garrison Caleb dejango Alaskan Outpost Brian Bulldog44 Japan Garrison Shawn CrookKnight Carolina Garrison Dave ComradeDave Canadian Garrison Preston Pretzel Garrison Carida Chris themaninthesuitcase United Kingdom Garrison OCTOBER Christoph Ripper_L German Garrison (Custodes Euroi Squad) So (after what seems like ages), you finally received your official 501st I.D. number and signed up for your first Troop. Now what? Depending on the event, there may be a few differences in protocol. For instance, a "Canon" event (usually one authorized by LFL or Disney) may be more serious in nature and regimented, while other times we are there to make the occasion a lot more fun, (parades, movie premiers, etc.). Here are a few basics to think about in regards of what (and what not) to do on your inaugural appearance with your local Garrison. Of course, all events are different.. some will be indoors, some will be outdoors, or a combination of the two.. some will have just a few members, others may have over a hundred, but the basics stay the same. This list is by no means meant to be complete, so all Troopers are welcome to add their own ideas, tips and fun things to do! 1. Before you leave- If you have not had the chance to wear your armor for any length of time, put it on (including your bucket) and wear it around the house and maybe in your yard for a while. This will give you an idea of your range of vision, your movement limitations, and let you know what you are in for. 2. Be prepared- Double (and triple) check your armor to make sure you have all your accessories and all your connections are secure before leaving your house. I would suggest carrying a small repair kit in your bin as well, with items like white duct tape, CA glue with accelerator, etc. There is a great thread here for this: http://www.whitearmo...ency-troop-kit/ 2. BE ON TIME- I cannot stress this enough. When you sign up for a troop, they will have an arrival time, (usually an hour or so before), and a "step off" time. The hour gives you the chance to get your armor on, and make any adjustments. There should be "handlers", but any fellow Trooper will be glad to help you out. The POC (point of contact) person for the troop or event coordinator will give you any details you might need beforehand, (directions, special notes). Feel free to ask them any specific questions. If you have any concerns, let your handler or the person in charge know about these. They are there to help. 3. Be aware of you surroundings- Due to the limited visibility in a bucket, watch out for curbs, steps, obstacles, etc. Small children will often run up to you and stand closely, so be aware that they may be right below you and cannot be seen. 4. Photos- You will be asked (sometimes hundreds of times) "Can I take a picture with you"? Be patient, and get used to it! But be aware of where your arms are to avoid touching anyone inappropriately. Often, people will ask "Can I hold your gun"? That is entirely up to you. A lot of us have spent a great deal of time building our weapons, and they (especially the resin cast) can be damaged if dropped. Many of us carry Hyperfirms for this reason. If you don't want to let someone hold it, you can say something to the effect of "The Emperor forbids it" or "It's against Imperial regulations". Side note: Never, EVER point your blaster at a child for any reason. This is just in really bad taste. 5. Hydration- Another item that is VERY important, especially in warmer areas and extended troops. FISD legend Steve (gazmosis) wrote a great post on this subject, and it is used here (with permission): "Big troops, big crowds, lots of kids, lots of chances to show off your hard work. With the hot weather, there are also lots of chances to be become quickly dehydrated and sick. Don't let this happen!! There is no greater cooling system than hydration. But drinking a crap ton of water is not the solution....it's how and when you drink it that is. Let's be clear here!!! We are talking about WATER! Not soda, not energy drinks, not juice. WATER...H2O. Leave the Gatorade in the cooler for after the troop. Proper hydration should begin a full day prior to a hot troop. Steady intake of water (8-16 oz. an hour) is fine. Too much water at one time can actually be harmful but a slow and steady intake will allow the body to properly absorb and distribute it until you are hydrated down to a CELLULAR level. Yes, you will be in the bathroom a lot. But when the pee is clear...you are there! Continue this until just before bedtime. On the day of your troop, avoid coffee and other caffeinated drinks that can dehydrate you. Your bathroom trips will have evened out overnight. Have one more bottle or serving of water before suiting up. Once in your suit, you will sweat. No matter what fans you have in your lid....you will sweat. THIS is your cooling system. If you are properly hydrated, you will have the fluids so that your body will adjust to the rise in temperature and cool itself properly. If not, your body will use the water in it twice as fast and without the proper reserves, you will risk not only dehydration but elevated internal temps, dizziness, and possible heat stroke. The long and short of it is be safe and smart. We need out troopers vertical!!!!!" On that subject, if you do feel dizzy or need a break, tell your handler immediately. 6. Changing areas- Most events will have a secure and private changing area, but some may not, so ask ahead of time. If it happens to be an outside area, you can wear your under suit to the event underneath your clothes. 7. Armor bin storage- Again, most troops will have a secure area designated to store your armor bin, away from the public. If this is the case, you are fine. Some have asked "Do I need to keep it locked during the troop"? That's up to you. We tend to be a very honest bunch, treat each other's belongings like our own and keep an eye out for one another. (I have never felt the need to lock mine). If it is a parking lot suit up, that's a different story. 8. Conduct- Have a blast on your troop, but keep it civil. Some Troopers clown around a bit occasionally (myself included) depending on the circumstances, but remember, you are a representative of the 501st Legion, the FISD, and your Garrison/Squad, so act accordingly. When in doubt, ask someone who has done that event before. Side note: If you happen to be a smoker, please do not do it in public view while in armor. 9. Handlers- Handlers are an absolutely integral part of a troop, and make our lives much easier. They take photos for the public, warn us of obstacles, escort us to the restrooms/break areas, pick up fallen armor pieces, protect us from kids smacking us with toy lightsabers, guard our stuff, bring us water, keep us informed, and a myriad of other things. After your troop, be sure to thank them for all they do to make an event possible and allow those in costume to have a better time. Most importantly of all....... HAVE FUN!!!!! With Unquestioned Loyalty Joseph P. TK-10963 "justjoseph63" FISD Ambassador Natalie & Daniel Tie The Knot More here: http://www.whitearmo...e-knot-yanchep/ By: gmrhodes13, TK85421 Salt Lake Comic Con 501st Group Photo More here: http://www.whitearmo...st-group-photo/ By: T K, TK91091 Weird Al Concert w Garrison Tyranus More here: http://www.whitearmo...rrison-tyranus/ By: tkrestonva, TK2918 501st at Amazing Houston Comic Con More here: http://www.whitearmo...ston-comic-con/ By: SkulShurtugalTCG, TK69004 With Unquestioned Loyalty, Glen "Q" Rhodes TK-85421 "gmrhodes13" Imperial Propaganda Department It's that time of year again, and I know what many of you are thinking, "What can I do as a Stormtrooper to annoy children?" Well I'm glad you asked! Here's a list of activities you might consider, to make the most of your awesome Stormtrooper armour, this Halloween: The Carbonite Stand in front of your house motionless. The key here is to wait until after the kids have received candy. Confident the experience is over, this is when they're most vulnerable. This is the time suddenly coming to life, and shouting "LONG LIVE THE EMPIRE!!!" will have it's greatest impact. Watch them run down the street squealing . . . capes and wings flapping in the wind. White Ops Wait 'til your friend's at the door handing out candy, then appear behind them briefly. Just enough time for the kids to see you, then disappear. "There! Behind you!", never gets old. Repeat the process for added hilarity, and watch the kids' frustration increase. Bucket of Candy Have a friend answer the door, utilizing your helmet as a candy bowl. Walk over in full armour exclaiming "There it is!", and put it on your head. Allow some candy to fall out as you place it on your head for greater comedic effect. TK Mindtrick This is pretty basic, but never gets old. Simply answer the door in your armour, and no matter their insistance, refuse to acknowledge or confirm you're a Stormtrooper. When they shout "Stormtrooper!" (They will. They ALWAYS do.), you can reply "Where?". Escalate as appropriate. A nice addition to this is to have a friend join you at the door and also refuse to acknowledge a Stormtrooper. It's even better if they happen to be a Stormtrooper too! Have them casually enter the doorway from somewhere else in the house . . . maybe wearing a housecoat over their armour. Frustrate your neighbours! Go door to door in your neighbourhood, without children, ringing doorbells and asking questions ("Have you seen any droids?", "Tell us where the rebels are hiding!", "Can you give me directions to the Death Star?", etc.) The key here is to stay in character and refuse any candy. Just ask questions, seem annoyed when they interrupt you with offers of candy, and eventually just walk away. It's tough to resist delicious candy, but it's way funnier. Let's face it, this is the one day a year we can go door to door as a Stormtrooper, I say we take advantage. Happy Halloween everyone! With Unquestioned Loyalty, Danny TK-66668 "MechaPumpkin" FISD Deputy Public Relations Officer This month the 1st Imperial Stormtrooper Detachment would like to congratulate: Expert Infantry Badge Award: Timothy Jones "TeaJay" TK-12864 Rui Fernandes "Danone32" TK-32428 Sean Mynster "DeceptiSean" TK-21115 Mike Larsen "Sam Crow" TK-22187 Sean Barber "Count Chocula" TK-77019 Sarah Bailey "Alay" TK-20466 Dave Polewski "Comrade Dave" TK-22788 Shawn Cantey "CrookKnight" TK-10204 Rasmus Puranen "Myys" TK-30773 Dennis Maloom "NINJAM0VE" TK-16112 Kurt Heydenburg "Lord Dark Helmet" TK-61673 Michael Avina "Addertime" TK-11427 Jay Piazza "Heavy Metal" TK-69937 Mike Kraemer "Nukem25rs" TK-71508 Ken Sigler "TrooperKen(TK)" TK-14174 Daniel Ley "ratzfatz10" TK-51809 Andy Price "andylah" TK-42542 Pawel Oortwijn "Xinx" TK-11131 Robert Forster "Moofmilker" TK-31666 Jamie Park "Crema" TK-96302 Jon Thielmann "Coloursergeant" TK-12513 Centurion Award: Darren Mullen "Darren TK-11916" TK-11916 Carlos Mendoza "Solcar23" TK-5924 Dale Evans "squaddiechef" TK-23812 Tom Rogers "TK-Tom" TK-19764 Kai Bartels "TK-71715" TK-71715 Manny "Daelma" TK-22011 Víctor Guzman "Traumtrooper" TK-19811 Theo van Geffen "ScaryGuy" TK-31026 Sean Mynster "DeceptiSean" TK-21115 Scott Williams "TK16390" TK-16390 Sean Barber "Count Chocula" TK-77019 Dennis Maloom "NINJAM0VE" TK-16112 Sarah Bailey "Alay" TK-20466 Rasmus Puranen "Myys" TK-30773 Mike Larsen "Sam Crow" TK-22187 Michael Avina "Addertime" TK-11427 Ken Sigler "TrooperKen(TK)" TK-14174 Rebecca S. Beiderwell "Sharkbait" TK-29118 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>

LoL... We know that your eyesight isn't what it used to be. That happens when you get to be that (this??) old.

As Kalani and Glen have said, there are no requirements at all for how anything inside of the armor is assembled. You can feel free to review build threads, or EIB/Centurion threads to see how others have built theirs for ideas that you might like.