In tribute to a young Star Wars fan who passed away, the 501st UK Garrison led their funeral procession dressed as Clone Troopers from The Clone Wars series, warming hearts all over the world.
Formed in 2000, the UK Garrison is a part of the worldwide 501st Legion, which is one of the largest costuming organisations out there. Dressing as characters from the Imperial and Rebel sides of the Star Wars conflict, their mission is to "[build] movie accurate costumes, [raise] money for charity and [put] smiles on faces." Owing to the third lockdown which is in place in the UK, the group is currently only able to attend events where social distancing is possible, in order to be safe and ensure that no one is at risk.
Beautiful job by members of the UK garrison of the 501st! sadly a young Clone Wars fan passed away recently, their hero was Captain Rex, who led the final send off for this young trooper! from r/StarWars
"The 501st UK Garrison were proud and honoured to be asked to accompany a young Clonewars [sic] fan on their last journey. Always a privilege to serve," said the organisation on their Facebook page, accompanied by a photo of a Clone Trooper and the cortege. The response to the photo has been inspiring, among Star Wars fans and especially for people who knew the young fan personally. "I love the 501st. Absolutely amazing people," said ZombieAppetizer. "I'm sure that little trooper was looking down and smiling as his hero walked down that street."
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He adored the character of Captain Rex, and Clone Trooper TK10555 Mark Taylor and Gareth Wood TK31225 couldn't have been happier to fulfil the family's request. "I cannot thank you enough for doing this as a fitting tribute for my baby boy," said Karen Hammond. "He loved making people smile, so combined with his love of Star Wars, he had always wanted to join the 501st, but now will never get the chance." She added that her son Isaac had "watched and rewatched TCW more times than I care to think," and that they both considered the series to be the best entry into the Star Wars canon.
"I know some people feel the presence of lost loved ones in the wind, or beautiful nature. I'll feel him next to me watching Ahsoka when it comes out, goodness knows we waited long enough for it," she said. "Thank you 501st whole for doing this with such compassion, respect and dignity. It meant so much and I feel that we made him smile one last time."
Featured Image Credit: The UK GarrisonTopics: News