As we reflect on the past year, it is stirring to see the phenomenal work achieved by our troopers, veteran and rookie alike.

There have been many highlights for Bast Alpha Garrison this year of trooping, with many lives changed inside and outside the 501st. Hospital visits are always emotional and evoke deeper feelings in the toughest of veterans. “Hospital visits to kids that light up when we come into their room and their parents whisper ‘Thank you.’ next to our helmets is so rewarding.” (62176) Likewise, our rookies have felt these rewarding experiences, running the gamut from dancing on stage with Weird Al to celebrating the life of a beloved Star Wars fan.

This rising storm of rookies has been its own reward felt by BAG veterans.
“I like the growth in the northern part of the state more than anything. I can finally troop close to home and not have to drive three or more hours to have someone to troop with.” -3268
“Our growth over the past fifteen months is incredible, and truly refreshing to see.” -4019
A rewarding feeling from our veterans, reciprocated by the rookies themselves;
“Being a part of Bast Alpha has quite literally made my dreams come true and I am so happy I’m with such an incredible group of people.” -20766
With this growing band of brother and sisterhood on Bast Alpha’s 20th anniversary, it was fitting to announce the 2026 Anniversary Logeaux. Veteran member, 8597, was touched to have the honor of unveiling the Gryzard. Regarding the logo, 71969 noted, “it might seem like a small thing, but that [gryzard] means a lot to me”.

Much joy and merriment has been felt by troopers who had the pleasure of meeting multiple well known Star Wars names from interacting with Emily Swallow as the Armorer, to meeting the Dark Lord of the Sith himself, Hayden Christiensen. However, the height of honor for BAG, was the privilege to officially induct Dorian Gregory as an honorary member of the 501st Legion for his work in bringing the commanding (or intimidating, your choice) voice of Darth Vader to life in the Obi-Wan Kenobi series.

Our family has grown under the leadership of our fierce and dedicated Commanding Officer (36999) and her crucial Command Staff. She is both the first female CO and the first Northern Louisiana CO the garrison has had.

Personnel growth is far from the only achievement made by Bast Alpha this past year. Multiple troopers were nominated for Legion Trooper of the Month, with some securing their place among the Legion’s best. BAG’s 10008, 2954, and 80086 have set themselves apart for their steadfast devotion to the ideals of the 501st Legion. A special congratulations to 10008 for winning TOTM for the entire 501st Legion in September of 2025. BAG also nominated another TOTM Legion winner, 10348 of Neon City Garrison. 

On the garrison level, the following received Trooper of the Month honors and, therefore, deserve acknowledgement: 92167, 20255, 15600, 4019, and 26654. An additional accolade belongs to 8597 for winning Bast Alpha Garrison 2025 Trooper of the Year. Their effort and dedication have been paramount to our success. One last accolade is owed to every BAG member for a successful 100% completion on the census, which is a garrison first.

The return of Droid Hunt to Louisiana has brought countless smiles and many hours of fun to Star Wars fans of all ages, while earning much deserved recognition for the troopers responsible for its rebirth. Thanks to the efforts of 8597, 10008, 11107, 36999, and 51419, Bast Alpha Garrison received the esteemed honor of Legion Crew of the Quarter for Q3 in 2025.  Trooper 51419 in particular, will be immortalized by the Legion.  His art has been officially adopted worldwide by the 501st for Droid Hunts across all Imperial sectors, as loyal Imperial citizens help to report suspicions of Rebel droid activities.

From being an increased presence via new recruits to international recognition, 2025 will be remembered for the passion, creativity, and philanthropy expected of members of the 501st Legion, illustrating Bast Alpha’s commitment to service in the name of the Empire.

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