Citizens of the Galactic Empire!
I am Matt, ID-46221, of the Outer Rim Garrison (Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada). I have assisted the 501st as a handler and photographer since 2015, initially because I like helping out with charities, and hanging out with Stormtroopers. Since then, I have discovered that the comeraderie and laughter help immensely in treating my PTSD symptoms, and have made the leap into being a member myself.
I am moving back to my home town of Sault Ste Marie, Ontairo (Canadian Garrison's territory), where there are no other 501st members within a 2 1/2 hour drive. With that grim knowledge in hand, I contacted one of my geekiest friends back home, and in my best 1980's Commercial Salesman Voice, I asked "Hey! Do you want to make a positive change in the world? Do you want to have fun on your days off? Do you want your VERY OWN Star Wars costume?" He fell for the bait, so I asked him what costume he'd be interested in. To my surprise, he didn't say Stormtrooper or Darth Vader right off the bat. No. Nothing so mundane for him! He's decided he wants to be an Imperial Knight!
So I'm here, as his "Imperial Advisor" (his words, not mine), to learn about the costume, and to come up with a list of sources, tips, and of course, budget. Once we get him in costume, I'll be able to troop again, and introduce another city to the Bad Guys Doing Good.