The Bitter Water Scout Trooper was conceptualized by Michael Paul (Navajo) and designed by Mike Toya (Jemez Pueblo), with moccasins crafted by Cedric Fragua (Jemez Pueblo). A longtime 501st Legion member and part of the Dewback Ridge Garrison in New Mexico, Michael has cosplayed as a Shadow Stormtrooper, Shoretrooper and Kashyyyk Scout Trooper.
Inspired by Native artists who merge their cultures with their love for “Star Wars,” Michael partnered with Mike, providing the Scout Trooper armor for Mike to transform with his signature Jemez art style. “Bitter Water” comes from Michael’s maternal clan, Tó díchʼíiʼnii, one of the original four clans of the Navajo Nation.
