Return Of The 80's

by: Tiernan

 Madonna released "Like a Virgin", bright neon shirts with mini skirts, leg warmers, fish net gloves as part of the wardrobe, Gremlins, Star Wars: Episode V were all released and popular in the 80's.  What better way to remember the past: have some fun and dress up for the night other than a Summer 80's bash?  Thanks to the Lincoln Park Firefighters, for hosting the one night of fun and plenty of memories inside Crystal Gardens (Southgate, MI.)   February 22nd was also about raising money for the community and the welfare of its citizens.  Proceeds from the event were put into funds for scholarships, youth baseball programs and other local projects.

photo courtesy dankelzaga

Great Lakes Base and Great Lakes Garrison were invited to the Annual Summer's 80's bash; hosted by the Lincoln Park Firefighters.  After changing into costume and waiting for a few minutes, members finally walked out into the reception hall full of partygoers.  The guests were ecstatic to see Star Wars characters and crowded around, waiting to get a picture with each of us.  We entered the banquet room, to the main Star Wars theme, to a packed room of people standing on either side welcoming Rebels and Sith alike.

Party like an ewok!!!

Once inside and at post, we stood as people snapped their cameras and our introduction was given as well as a speech about the fundraiser.  80's music blasted and the crowd dispersed on the dance floor all around the room; that's when our mission started.  Orders were walk around, mingle with guest and take pictures with them.  While Princess Leia, a Rebel Pilot, Endor Trooper and a Jedi got the chance to walk around the venue, it was Chewbacca who got stuck on the dance floor with a giant crowd of fans dancing with him and posing for the camera.

After an hour and half of dancing and photo ops, things began to calm down (but not by much) it was time to break for a few minutes for those who wanted to.  While some Rebels left early, others stayed to party well into the night getting as much attention and having as much fun as possible.