Imperial 80th Squad elections have come and gone. One candidate accepted their nomination. Jason Neurath (TK-1375) decided to step down in order to further the work of the Central Garrison as Garrison Membership Liaison (GML) and Garrison Merchandise Officer (GMO). John Jaeckel (TB-750) will step in and attempt to fill the shoes left behind by a great trooper and leader.

The Imperial 80th Squad welcomes the third squad leader since the squad became official in May of 2006. John Jaeckel has been a member of the 501st Legion for over seven (7) years. He has trooped three Star Wars: Celebration events, and was a participant in the 2007 Rose Parade in Pasadena, CA. His goals for the 2008 trooping year include searching out in-active troopers and bringing them out of retirement. Other goals include costume accountability, member participation on the 501st and Central Garrison forums, and regular squad meetings. This year the squad will be participating in their annual events. Examples are Free Comic Book Day in May, the St. Patrick's Day Parade, the Omaha Salute to Labor Parade, the Benson Unity Parade, Dundee Days, and many others.