“Rebel Air” Rides Again!

It has been a while since I was able to post anything new here at “All Wings Report In!” – feels good to be back!  While I shake off any lasting effects of “hibernation sickness” that may be lingering, I wanted to thank the many readers (and guest bloggers) who encouraged me to bring back the official web blog of Great Lakes Base. 

Motor City Comic Con celebrated their 25th anniversary this past weekend.  As this convention has become one of our biggest annual traditions, you know this means the Great Lakes Base, Great Lakes Garrison, Clan Suumpir’ade and our newest friends at Great Lakes Droids were going to have to put on a display worthy of such a milestone year.  In fact, the convention organizers treat all of us exceedingly well – to the point where our groups’ area on the convention floor keeps growing every year.  And that extra space comes in handy when you consider that between us we bring not just the traditional info booths, but a full scale Droid Factory and even “Docking Bay 94” photo backdrop; all for con patrons to interact with and take pictures with us.

photo courtesy Kristie Johnson

Part of what I love so much about Motor City Comic Con is that it’s a chance to go on a road trip up to Michigan for the weekend; carpooling that has earned the nickname "Rebel Air" over the years.  There’s something about the feeling of dropping out of hyperspace as you switch off the cruise control along the Ohio Turnpike as you make the turn near Toledo... heading for “that state up north.”  Once you enter the convention center using the back entrance -- not unlike the secret bunker on Endor -- and get settled in with about fourty of your closest friends and ALL OF THEIR (multiple) ARMOR BINS… the next few hours are just a constant blur of photos, vendors, catching up with people and good times.

With the debut of our NEW “Docking Bay 94” photo backdrop, one of the coolest moments of the weekend came when we assembled the entire “A New Hope” cast of heroes; along with dozens of Jedi, Rebels, Clones and Shadow Squadron.  Overall, I’d have to say Great Lakes Base helped celebrate Motor City Comic Con’s 25th anniversary with one of our strongest showing in all my time with Rebel Legion!

So after two busy days of trooping, it was time to turn our ship around, hit the cruise control and "Rebel Air" heads for home!