Q. What type of activities does your group do, and how do I learn what you have done in the past?
A: The Golden Gate Garrison makes appearances at events ranging from media conventions to performing service in our local communities. Our group has played a contributing role in such events like the Episode 3 Charity Premiere. Aside from entertainment, our group also performs service work, such as assisting organizations like Toys for Tots and the Make-a-Wish Foundation, as well as visiting local schools and children's hospitals. To view our upcoming activities or to see what we have done in the past, please check out the Events and Galleries section of our site.


Q. Does your group charge or ask for anything in return for appearances?
A: Our group exists as a non-profit organization so we do not charge for our appearances. We simply ask for access to an event and a place to change and store our gear.


Q. If I would like the Golden Gate Garrison to participate in an event, whom do I contact?
A: If you would like our group to participate at an event and it is within the region we serve, please use the Event Request Form. For events outside our region, please fill out the 501st Legion Web site "Request an Appearance" form.


Q. Are there any age requirements for membership?
A: You must be at least 18 years of age to join the 501st legion. Unfortunately, there are no exceptions to this requirement.


Q: I really like your costumes. Where do I buy one?
A: The costumes displayed are the result of careful research, fabrication and a lot of hard work. The majority of our costume components are hand built and assembled in our spare time. Certain talented artisans across the country provide limited kits and other scratch built pieces for those components that are relatively difficult to fabricate. Given that the likenesses portrayed by these costumes are copyrighted images, however, it must be stressed that there are no businesses that sell complete Star Wars costumes. Also, it must be further noted that the 501st Legion does not provide or manufacture costumes for purchase. The most common available item is the stormtrooper "kit", which contains all the hard plastic armor components necessary to assemble a stormtrooper costume. This item was once sold through various providers. However, due to the potential liability associated with selling such an item, it is no longer in production. Kits do turn up privately on eBay and other costuming boards. A little persistence online is usually what it takes to get started on a great costume. Potential members seeking information on armor, props or other associated costumes feel free to contact our . They will be happy to direct you to whatever sources that are currently available.


Q: What are the guidelines regarding my costume?
A: Membership requires an appropriate Imperial themed costume and is based on the following two criteria:

1. AUTHENTICITY: It is essential that your costume represent canon in regards to the films. In essence, the costume you wear must be screen accurate and readily recognizable in regards to the Star Wars films. Although such off screen concepts as a "Sith Witch" or a "Mandolorian Commando" are visually appealing and provide some wonderful costume opportunities, they are usually unrecognizable to the average fan during 501st events. Similarly, modifications to canon based costumes such as adding decals, stickers or a modified paint scheme also poses a similar problem. It is imperative that the costume used for public appearances be easily identified with the films.

2. QUALITY: Although the 501st is a fan-based organization, we pride ourselves in our professionalism regarding the quality and authenticity of our costumes. In an effort to stay true to film canon, all efforts must be made regarding the materials, construction and presentation of ones costume. Although there are no concrete guidelines regarding what constitutes a quality costume, a potential member must make a solid effort in providing a superior costume for public appearances and events. Also, the pursuit of creating the "perfect" Imperial costume lends itself towards learning and improving on various costume fabrication skills and techniques. Extremely high costuming quality and standards is what sets the 501st apart from other costuming organizations and why we're considered the premier Star Wars costuming group of the world.


Q. What memberships requirements does the 501st have?
A. Costumes must be authentic, canon Imperial costumes from the movies or licensed media (games, books, etc.). Costumes must be devoid of stickers, ornamentation, or any other decoration not found on the original costumes. Costumes must be complete, containing all the parts in good working order and appearance.


Q. How do I make contact with a local affiliation of the 501st?
A. The Golden Gate Garrison covers the Coastal area of California from Fresno to Redding. If you live in this region, please email the for more information. If you live in another area, please visit the Legion Website for additional information.


Q. How do I join the 501st?
A. Visit the 501st Legion website and select "Join The Legion" under the Members menu on the homepage. Please refer to the gallery page on the same site to locate your nearest local Garrison to which you will be assigned. You will be contacted by that Garrison's Commanding officer once your membership has been approved.


Q. Is your group in anyway affiliated with Lucasfilm Limited?
A. We are not directly affiliated with LucasFilm, however we do have a close working relationship with them, often participating in live and for tv events. The 501st is also now included in the official Star Wars character databank. (See The official Star Wars web site). The game division, LucasArts, has also included us as the main characters in their video game release "Battlefront 2". The 501st characters were derived from us, and not the other way around! Also, see the disclaimer below.