OUR THREE PILLARS

The Foundation of Our Purpose

Our mission is built upon three core pillars that define who we are and what we do

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To Promote Interest in Star Wars

While a growing number of people are experiencing a reawakening of their Star Wars fandom, new generations are seeking ways to celebrate their passion for George Lucas's modern mythology. The 501st Legion brings these fans together, reinforcing the enduring longevity of the Star Wars saga.

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To Facilitate the Use of Costumes

Some fans are content to collect action figures...other fans want to be action figures. Nothing professes your passion quite like building your own detailed costume replica of a classic Star Wars villain, and there's nothing quite like the feeling that comes from bringing the characters of Star Wars into the real world and sharing the magic with others.

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To Contribute

While our organization was founded to simply provide a collective identity for costuming fans with similar interests, the 501st is proud to put its resources to good use through fundraising, charity work, and volunteering.

EVENT APPEARANCES

Why Invite the 501st to Your Event?

When you invite the 501st Legion to your event, you will get an experience that includes screen accurate Star Wars magic, helping to create memories and photo opportunities for a lifetime!

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Introduction

While the 501st was initially founded to unite costumers with a penchant for Star Wars villainy, one of our real-world missions is to bring good to our communities through volunteer charity work. We do not charge a fee for appearances, and we welcome donations to a charitable organization in the name of the 501st Legion.

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Volunteers

Our members are volunteers, most with full-time jobs outside Legion activities. Event support depends on member availability, location, timing, and event impact. Community and charity events are generally more likely to receive a 501st appearance than private functions.

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Request

Once you have reviewed the introduction and volunteer guidance, please submit an appearance request via the official request form: clicking here.

Your time spent with the children brought many smiles to their faces. One boy in particular was so excited by your visit because he was unable to go to comic-con due to his recent hospitalization. Your visit really made a difference to him and to the many other children with whom you interacted.
Heather Ott
Corporate Development Coordinator, Children's Hospital Foundation
Request an Appearance
It’s inspiring how the members of the 501st will step up when called upon, no matter how grand or humble the need… This group can be counted upon to do their best.
Mary Franklin
Lucasfilm Events Manager (Retired)
Request an Appearance
I love the 501st. I think they're great… it's an amazing thing. They need the 501st band… you know, marching band.
George Lucas
Writer/Director/Creator of Star Wars
Request an Appearance

JOIN THE LEGION

Why Join the 501st Legion?

Become part of something legendary. The 501st Legion offers more than just costuming - it's a gateway to adventure, friendship, and making a positive impact on the world.

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Requirements

Members must be 18 years of age or older and own a high-quality costume representing a character that conforms to the 501st approval standards. See the visual guides in the CRL section for currently recognized costumes.

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Costumes

Most members build their own costumes. The 501st has detachments focused on specific costume types so members can get expert help and project guidance. Visit the detachments list to find the best fit for your costume goals.

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Getting Started

Check out our Join Us page for first steps, then review the Trooper Survival Guide to understand what membership looks like and how to prepare for your first troop.

Ready to Serve the Empire?

The path to joining our ranks begins with a single step. Whether you're a seasoned costumer or just starting your journey, we welcome all who share our passion for Star Wars and commitment to community service.

Learn How to Join

TESTIMONIALS

What Others Say About Us

From creators to fans, from hospitals to corporate events - hear what people say about the 501st Legion

"You guys made it all worthwhile... Every single one of those Stormtroopers acted like I was doing them the biggest favor in the world by letting them perform on stage with me, when in fact the exact opposite was true."

"Weird Al" Yankovic

Grammy Award-winning recording artist

"I love the 501st. I think they're great... It's an amazing thing. They need the 501st band... you know, marching band."

George Lucas

Writer/Director/Creator of Star Wars

"We consider the members of the 501st part of the extended Lucasfilm family. They have fun and share a sense of community, while at the same time bringing joy to a lot of people."

Steve Sansweet

Lucasfilm Content Manager and head of Fan Relations

"Your time spent with the children brought many smiles to their faces. One boy in particular was so excited by your visit because he was unable to go to Comic-Con due to his recent hospitalization. Your visit really made a difference."

Heather Ott

Corporate Development Coordinator, Children's Hospital Foundation

"It's inspiring how the members of the 501st will step up when called upon, no matter how grand or humble the need... This group can be counted upon to do their best."

Mary Franklin

Lucasfilm Events Manager (Retired)

"Stormtroopers bring a little panache to any social occasion... They are a terrific group of people, and when I say Star Wars fans are nice people, the 501st takes that to another level."

Timothy Zahn

Hugo Award-winning Author