In 1997, Albin Johnson, a long-time fan of Star Wars, appeared in costume at his local South Carolina theater for the premier of “A New Hope Special Edition”. What began as a small fan website with photos from that event, the 501st rapidly became a worldwide Star Wars costuming organization. In 2004, Albin helped in the creation of a special pink droid named R2-KT when his daughter was diagnosed with cancer. After seeing how happy his daughter and all the other children and hospital staff were when R2-KT visited, he realized how much good the 501st could do. After her passing, the 501st added to their mission “to bring good to our communities through volunteer charity work”. Today, the 501st Legion has expanded to more than 50 countries across the globe and has helped raise millions of dollars for charities around the world which is why our motto is “Bad Guys doing Good.”
Before Hawkbat Garrison existed, Iowa was part of Central Garrison. Central Garrison was one of the original units created when the 501st Legion transitioned to a garrison-based structure. At that time, Central Garrison included North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa, Nebraska, Kansas, and Missouri. As membership grew several states eventually separated to form their own garrisons, leaving Central Garrison composed of North Dakota, South Dakota, Iowa, and Nebraska.
As each state grew in population, squads were formed to help grow Central Garrison. Iowa became Korriban squad and was officially formed on June 4, 2014, beginning a six-month probationary period.
By 2024, Iowa became large enough to form its own Garrison and a formal process of voting and evaluation began in July 2025 to determine whether Iowa should become independent. Iowa secured the required votes to split off and establish its own garrison. Fifty-four Members joined, voted on a name, and created a logo. On September 11, 2025 the 501st approved the change and Hawkbat Garrison was born.
Hawkbat Garrison attended its first official troop at GalaxyCon Des Moines 2025 from September 12–14th of 2025. This milestone event was made possible through the dedication of our members and sister organizations. Picture is the 501st Legion, Rebel Legion, Mandalorian Mercs, R2-KT, Droid Builders, Dark Empire, and The Defenders. Despite different names, our shared passion brought us together to create a fun and memorable weekend. During that weekend the clubs all worked together and raised over $1,040.49 to Blank Children’s Hospital in Des Moines, IA.
We are one galaxy of fans united for the love of Star War and uniting our community together.
In just our first four months of our probationary period, Hawkbat Garrison demonstrated the strength, unity, and community impact that define who we are.
From September through December 2025, Hawkbat Garrison proudly raised $2,702.01 in charitable contributions an outstanding achievement for a newly established garrison. This milestone reflects not only our commitment to service, but the power of collaboration within our extended costuming community.
This success would not have been possible without the incredible partnership and support of our sister organizations, including the 501st Legion, Rebel Legion, Mandalorian Mercs, Droid Builders, Dark Empire, and The Defenders. Together, we have shown what can be accomplished when dedicated volunteers unite with a shared mission: serving our community while bringing inspiration and joy to others.
Beginning February 7, 2026, Keith Henkel (TK- 61472) officially assumed the role of Hawkbat Garrison’s first full-term Garrison Commanding Officer (GCO).
Keith initially stepped into the GCO position in September 2025, guiding Hawkbat Garrison through the remainder of the year during its critical probationary period. His steady leadership, commitment to excellence, and dedication to our mission provided the foundation for the garrison’s early success.
Following that impactful start, he was elected to serve a full term as Commanding Officer for 2026, an endorsement that reflects the confidence and trust our membership places in his leadership.
Keith’s command staff remains the same from 2025. His garrison team is listed as follows:
- Keith Henkle- (61472)- GCO
- Tanner Eisentrager- (29865)- GXO
- Justin Higgenbotham- (41709)- GEC
- Jason Schuett- (5107)- GWM
- Michelle Petty – (39150)- GPRO
- Stephen Townsend- (12230)- GML
- Dylan Henkel- (99515)- GML
- Tim Finly- (52043)- GML
- Katrina Hosley- (21883)- GML
- Katherin Pine- (89010)- GWL
- Verosika Sikora- (19262)-GWL
- Tricia Schuett- (7924)- GCR
- Ryan Toney- (82510)- GMBO
- Andrew Biederman- (34365)- GDO
- Anthony Pine- (80910)- Garrison Scribe
