A longtime 501st Legion member as part of the Dewback Ridge Garrison in New Mexico, Michael Paul (Navajo Nation) has cosplayed as a Shadow Stormtrooper, Shoretrooper, and Kashyyyk Scout Trooper.
The Bitter Water Scout Trooper was conceptualized by Paul and designed by Mike Toya (Jemez Pueblo). Inspired by Native artists who merged their culture with their love for Star Wars, Paul provided the Scout Trooper armor, to which Toya contributed his signature Jemez art style. Its moccasins were crafted by Cedric Fragua (Jemez Pueblo).
“Bitter Water” derives from Michael’s maternal clan, Tó díchʼíiʼnii, one of the original four clans of the Navajo Nation. Michael debuted the Bitter Water Scout Trooper at Star Wars Celebration Japan in April 2025.
