Pyrates Troop Log

[Pyrates[TK]]

CCEE 2016 - First Troop Debrief

 

Right then,

 

Time to record some of the jubilant experiences I had at the Calgary Comic Expo, and pay recognition to all who have given me these memories I shall never forget.

 

Where to begin?

 

Setting the tone - The Set Building Team - Making the imaginary into reality was a great thrill as we came together as a collective to produce a piece of Star Wars for all to marvel at and enjoy.

 

It was excellent to hear the ideas being bounced off one another, frantically adapting and overcoming the obstacles/gremlins and came down to the wire, but we pulled it off and learned on how to improve for next year.

 

Truly the best part of the set was watching the wondering eyes and the compliments that followed.

 

 

 

 

 

I myself had a great time throughout the times I was able to attend the set build process. My best memory being absolutely blasted with sawdust as I think I put the blade in backwards on the table saw (smacking my head when I got home).

 

Next game day.

 

Foremost appreciation goes to my rock star wife - for giving me 3-1/2 days off from everything, listened to me buzz crazily about my new Garrison mates and my day then pass out after each night.

 

This first day had me surging with energy and excitement for my first troop as a 501st Legion Badlands member.

 

 

I was lucky to have a designated fire team partner to share in the anticipation of the comic expo as we drove down to the BMO Center.

 

 

What happened next were the experiences only found in dreams.

 

Nerves quickly set in as I parked. I hadn't finished all the corrections to my armor before inspection from the vetted Troopers. None the less it was time to get kitted up and test my gear.

 

As I approached the booth reality faded away and the dream began.

 

I was greeted and given some great feedback on my armor by everyone. The atmosphere was like a shot of adrenaline and electricity.

 

 

 

The final construction of the set was alive and filled with the gleeful cheers of a Jawa.

 

 

After valuable first troop advice and codes of conduct it was time to bucket up and troop.

 

The goal: Learn as much as I can in every area

 

Old military habits kicked in quickly - every word issued by senior staff abided to and I began my first photo booth.

 

Rules of engagement:

 

- Never point your weapon at anyone no matter how much they beg and plead - my rebuttals: "Lord Vader has a zero civilian engagement order", "Sorry, it's for rebels only" and "The Emperor forbids it".

 

- Never point directly a blaster directly at a Cameraman

 

- Be aware of your blaster posture:

Multiple times people and children would change position after I was in set pose from a previous picture and out of visibility range and when I would look down would find them positioned with my blaster pointed at their heads, forcing me to move my blaster right away without hitting them in the bean.

After some time I found that taking a brief pause in between photos, interacting with the public and more frequent checks of my blind spots prior to letting photographers take the picture worked well or simply holding the blaster down by my side to give a thumbs up. I intend to apply this as a handler as well and will now stand in the way of the picture until our troops are set and angles are acceptable.

 

- Minimal contact with the public:

Being a Dad I know how much kids love to touch things. However in today's day and age, I was reminded, we must be extremely cautious on contact as not everyone's perspective is the same.

I found lowering myself as much as I could, fist bumps (Big Hero 6 style), high fives, and Vader force pinches really effective. Peek-a-boo for the kids that are nervous and unsure broke the ice "most" of the time (happy to report that I only had one cryer and believe I moved away to quickly).

If they came in for a hug I used one very gentle pat on the head to know their location.

Now the adults lol, I received a lot of double person hugs, which was uncomfortable and awesome at the same time (one on either side pinning you and crunching you in your armor).

For these I would keep my hands back behind them without contact so it would look like I was hugging them but wasn't touching. Or float above their shoulders with thumbs up.

 

Lastly:

 

Live the role:

 

After some more great tutelage from Senior Staff, in maintaining the magic by keeping the bucket on as much as possible, talk like a storm trooper, act like one as well by keeping a modicum of professionalism when it comes to being out in public and remember that you represent the 501st.

When the words left his mouth I was all business and the rush took over. I was charged like a race horse at the gate packing 100% Imperial power.

 

I watched - I learned - I mimicked - I had kit malfunctions/ repairs - and then like Forest Gump "I was running".

 

Completing my one hour shift in the booth seemed like 15 minutes. I was ready to stand there for another three hours as the feeling was that incredible. Time for my first patrol with my fellow troopers. Whoo-Wah here we go!!!

 

The fist bumps, laughs, smiles, high fives and hugs that followed still float in my mind today.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Amped from the day's training and meeting my new Garrison members had me ready to conquer the next test.

 

One question that repeated in my mind as I drifted to sleep:

 

"Dear Vader: Don't let me have a kit malfunction."

 

Day 2 - Parade of Wonders

 

 

Time to walk my first march as a Trooper.

 

We loaded up and headed out. I have marched hundreds of times but never like this. Rather than eyes not deviating from the beret in front of you, each movement precise and timed. Instead I was gifted with banners flying, smiles, and waves.

 

 

It's not everyday that you see a photographer literally jump out of his skin from a prone position with the fear of the emperor in his eyes, when a Death Trooper charges at him looking for food. It was absolutely freakin' side splitting to watch.

 

 

We concluded the march in Olympic Plaza The Imperial March pounding from the speakers and I was in heaven. Then what happened next was such a moment of commemoration that it gave me chills.

 

"Ladies take off your helmets" boomed through the air. I couldn't see from where I was, the bubble lenses didn't help, but all that I could hear was gasps and cheers.

 

The Garrison member who had issued the command to our Ladies of the Legion, told me later that jaws dropped and the bewilderment was hilarious.

 

Just a short time into this I am beyond proud of the hard working efforts put forth by our ladies. I salute you for all of that you do, and to all those you inspire with your devotion.

 

 

Returning back to the expo I was juiced to take on several rebel scum armies. Taking what I learned from the previous day I was stoked to head back out on patrol and ready to start to embrace my new role but not alone.

 

I have really nothing to compare to but from what I experienced our Handlers rock! I felt like I was a Disneyland character at all times. Keeping me pieced together, constantly watching and informing, checking that I was doing ok in my armor, organizing those who wanted photos, offering water, and sharing in the adventures.

 

Über gratitude to our handlers for showing and sharing your knowledge plus the countless photos you were taking to capture the moments as they happened - on top of everything else.

 

Day 3: Expect the unexpected

 

While gaining access to the BMO had been easy the first couple of times. A change in security protocol had left me in a huge lineup outside the building. I found trooper totes also work well as a bench and let fellow line attendees sit as well, which helped to kill the wait with casual conversation.

 

A heartfelt thanks to my fire team partner for sharing his Photo Booth shift with me so I could finally change inside. Unbeknownst to me this was first of special privileges I was to receive in the day.

 

 

After dropping my kit into the back room I decided to take in some of the sights the expo had to offer before my shift. On my way through the isles a little bird informed word that a couple of TK's were needed for a tasking.

 

Looks like I get to suit up earlier than later - sweet! I hurried back and started hearing the buzz of a special escort that was going to happen.

 

Just as I wandered into the curtain to find one of my GPR's, he emerged. I was quickly briefed and he dropped the names. The expression on my face must have been priceless as he chuckled and I stood there dazed. A fellow new TK and I are going to escort Mr. Robert Bailey to Mr. Peter Mahew. Holy flying Banthas!

 

Quickly I kitted up. As I left the curtain there was TeeKay YYC, we SITREP'd each other confirming the reality of what was to go down and put our helmets on. Shhchck"We got this - Yeah!"Shhchck - Fist Bump!

 

It was hard to control my excitement for the experience and could hear my heart beat inside my bucket.

 

Before I knew it we were shaking hands with Mr. Bailey. Two TK's, one Death Trooper were all business. Marching one living legend only to see another.

 

 

Never in my lifetime have I thought I was going to meet a cast member from a movie I've watched and enjoyed for so long, let alone the man who played my favorite character while I was growing up as a kid.

 

We turned the corner, walked past a mammoth line of people waiting for autographs, and there was Peter Freakin Mayhew!!! "Cursed bubble lenses" whispered in my head as I walked to the other side of the table to stand guard while the two friends caught up on old times.

 

 

I stood there for a moment choked inside of my bucket - pure happiness seizing every ounce of my being.

 

The discussion came to a close. It was time for a photo to commemorate the moment. As we bustled in behind the table I stood there ,in pose, my vision blurred but it didn't matter as my eyes were welled up with overwhelming joy. It was the only time I was glad that I didn't have bucket fans, as the tears disappeared into the sweat.

 

 

Returning back to the 501st booth Mr. Bailey gave out hand shakes and a very sincere thanks then was off.

 

I spun on a dime and was into the back room.

 

Bucket off faster than Finn. Verklempt, all I could think was "Did that just happen?".

 

My GPR walked into the back then looked at me "How was that?", my response "...Indescribable" and then I got all choked again. I hadn't been this overcome with utter and complete joy in a very long time except for several occasions in my life being the return home from tour, my marriage to my high school sweetheart, and the birth of my son - all of it was truly extraordinary and unforgettable.

 

Following orders I sucked back some water, kitted down and prepared for the "Troop-a-thon".

 

Gathered outside, we set up the challenges and were given a spectacular performance from our troopers with some of the best ingenuity and stealthy moves I've seen ever executed in armor/robes. My guts were killing from laughter and my face started getting sore from smiling so much, but I relished in it none the less.

 

 

 

 

 

Day 4: "Walk so kids can talk" Troop and Closing Day

 

The night before at the Expo Bash another Garrison member had asked for any available troopers to attend the Sunday morning troop as everyone else was covering shifts at the expo.

 

In the space of an hour I downloaded a ton of great handler information as well as don't be afraid to impose your handler and tell them you have had a kit malfunction rather than hiding into area and creating a lost trooper situation.

 

There is no end to the massive energy you get from trooping. Marching around with Garrison CO also puts a little charge in each step so on this troop we were "Putting on the Ritz" Badlands style with our blue pauldrons/ capes and tipping fedoras.

 

 

 

 

Back at the BMO Center - I quickly got kitted up for something I had been waiting for since we dropped off the set on Wednesday.

 

One of my handlers had given me the perfect way to commemorate my first troop.

 

Nate - my friend your heart, friendship, and dedication are pure gold. I lost count how many patrols we went on but our adventures are some of my fondest I have. Filled with laughter, legendary moments, and an infinite amount of photos - you sir are a machine!

 

Thank-you for your inspiration and a bucket list gift that sits proudly on my book shelf catching everyone's eye.

 

The gift was to accompany him and another member to get a photo with Peter Mayhew. This was the absolute icing on my first ever troop triathlon.

 

The last two hours of the expo were quickly upon me and one last promise to keep.

 

Time for one last with one patrol with a new Lady of the Legion in her TK, we were 501st approved at the same time.

 

Knowing the risks involved we set out with no handler. It was nothing but more gut busting laughter as we roamed. Every time we heard someone say "Thanks bud/ man" I would jokingly reply with "Hey, that's my sister your talking to" or SoulArt would try her best husky "You're welcome".

 

The announcement of the expo ending in 15 minutes broadcast through the BMO Center.

 

Holy Bantha fodder! I still needed to get out of my kit and help with tear down and load up.

 

Moving on the double ASAP - I buzzed back to the booth learning the lesson of changing 13 minutes to tear down is too late.

 

Fearing theft of my armor I chose the worst possible 5 seconds outside the booth to throw my pants on when thinking everyone's head was turned or preoccupied. And of course it had to be a Lady of the Legion and one poor little innocent bystander that caught me in my race for pants.(Hanging my head in TK shame).

 

Moments later our set was down and shipped back into the trailer. Fond farewells, handshakes, and hugs were dispensed by the truck load.

 

So just as quickly as it had begun, it had ended and back at home I just sat there struggling to describe the experience.

 

As valiant as I have tried here to describe the emotion, sensation and experience of trooping I am sincerely speechless in it's magnitude and impact.

 

What I can say in words is this:

 

Everything exceeded any expectations that I could have possibly imagined when it came to the experience of my first troop.

 

My close to this epic phenomenon is a quote that is music to my ears from Skullflare:

 

"And this is why we do it".

 

Addition:

Buckets off and a salute to you my Garrison - weeks have now passed while I have documented this story and the energy of that great event still courses heavy in my system driving me forward and creating enthusiastic anticipation to when I can troop again.

 

Thank-you to all - it is an immense honor.

 

Long live the Badlands Garrison, 501st and the stellar memories ahead - With Unquestioned Loyalty Whoo-Wahhh!!!!

 

 

Cheers;

Aaron / "Pyrates"

TK - 99725

FISD Attaché

Badlands Garrison

501st Legion

 

 

UPDATE!!! - Badlands Garrison raised over $7500 for the Make-A-Wish Foundation!!!!

Edited June 11, 2016 by Pyrates

[Haso[TK]]

Another great read. My first troop at Oz Comic Con coming up this weekend so this is great motivation!

 

Sent from my SM-J100Y using Tapatalk

[Pyrates[TK]]

Another great read. My first troop at Oz Comic Con coming up this weekend so this is great motivation!

 

Sent from my SM-J100Y using Tapatalk

Brother, it's going to blow your mind - enjoy the rush of raw Imperial Power - Oh YAAA!!!

[Strength[TK]]

Man, I think I'll have to make a trip up to Canada!

 

Sent from my SM-N920T using Tapatalk

[Pyrates[TK]]

Man, I think I'll have to make a trip up to Canada!

 

Sent from my SM-N920T using Tapatalk

You're welcome to visit anytime

[Pretzel[TK]]

Truly amazing. I can't wait to get out there. So close!

[Pyrates[TK]]

Truly amazing. I can't wait to get out there. So close!

Git'r'done!!! (fist bump)

[magni[TK]]

Aaron, what a great post! Your enthusiasm is epic. Reading this made me think of my first troop some 60 something back. Times does fly when your having fun. You'll see that every troop gives you that spark but nothing like your first. Great job fellow trooper! Look foward to reading more.

[Pyrates[TK]]

Aaron, what a great post! Your enthusiasm is epic. Reading this made me think of my first troop some 60 something back. Times does fly when your having fun. You'll see that every troop gives you that spark but nothing like your first. Great job fellow trooper! Look foward to reading more.

Truly humbling mate, thank-you

[TK19140[TK]]

Incredible post thank you for sharing! #MTFBWY

[Pyrates[TK]]

Incredible post thank you for sharing! #MTFBWY

Cheers!

[TK 2759[501st]]

Awesome job, and congrats on the Troop event! As I'd mentioned, I keep my blaster holstered 95% of the time lol now you know why. When marching/walking, I keep one hand holding the grip while its in holster, this way it doesn't flap about, and I know where it is.

Awesome read, and welcome to the glory of the 501st!

 

 

- Lord Vader is in the next room? Hurry, let's clean this up...

[Pyrates[TK]]

Awesome job, and congrats on the Troop event! As I'd mentioned, I keep my blaster holstered 95% of the time lol now you know why. When marching/walking, I keep one hand holding the grip while its in holster, this way it doesn't flap about, and I know where it is.

Awesome read, and welcome to the glory of the 501st!

 

 

- Lord Vader is in the next room? Hurry, let's clean this up...

Many appreciative thanks Dan! Edited June 9, 2016 by Pyrates

[Sentry71[TK]]

Awesome post, Aaron. First troop, and at such a large con too. My first public appearance was at a con as well, though not with my garrison. <br><br>

Thanks for sharing your experience, brother!

[Pyrates[TK]]

Awesome post, Aaron. First troop, and at such a large con too. My first public appearance was at a con as well, though not with my garrison. <br><br>

Thanks for sharing your experience, brother!

Many thanks Gary - hopefully we'll get you up here for a Troop soon!

[Jinsei[TK]]

Congrats man! It looks like it was an awesome first troop. I actually just got back from my first troop as well! It was a blast, other then watching my wheel come off my truck and bounce off a cliff.  I ran into Yves this weekend and he passed on the greetings lol.

Edited June 9, 2016 by Jinsei

[Pyrates[TK]]

Congrats man! It looks like it was an awesome first troop. I actually just got back from my first troop as well! It was a blast, other then watching my wheel come off my truck and bounce off a cliff. I ran into Yves this weekend and he passed on the greetings lol.

Awesome mate and thank-you!

[Airborne Trooper[501st]]

Awesome post! Crazy how easily those military habits come back. I call the pose where you hold your belt the modified position of parade-rest. 

[Pyrates[TK]]

Awesome post! Crazy how easily those military habits come back. I call the pose where you hold your belt the modified position of parade-rest.

Just like the good ol'days eh brother WHOOO-WAH!

[68Brick[TK]]

Nicely Done Trooper!

[Pyrates[TK]]

Nicely Done Trooper!

Much gratitude my friend and thank you!

[spyder918]

Very cool..thanks for sharing the pics!

[Pyrates[TK]]

Very cool..thanks for sharing the pics!

Anytime mate!

[Pyrates[TK]]

So there were quite a few photos that I wanted to add from that event - Enjoy!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[Pyrates[TK]]