Partnering with the Mando Mercs and the Wounded Warrior project, the Armorer actress Emily Swallow discusses how these veterans are now helping to build helmets and chest armour for the kids at Wolfson Children’s Hospital, helping bring communities together.

One of my favorite things to see as ‘The Armorer’ is kiddo-sized armor. I was thrilled to be a part of a collaboration between The Wounded Warrior Project, The Mandalorian Mercs and Wolfson Children’s Hospital, all because of an idea in the head of Ryan Minsk. Ryan knew that many of the vets he works with could relate to spending time in and out of hospitals, as could many kids being treated at Wolfson. So he had an idea to foster connection between these two communities; his fellow Mandalorian Mercs in Jacksonville helped the vets build custom Mandalorian helmets and chest armor in colors of the kiddos’ choosing.

I was in town for a convention, so I was asked to give the armor the seal of approval. I got to meet Immanuel, Jedidiah, Kendall and their families. They were accompanied by several of their devoted nurses from Wolfson, and we all felt pretty darn blessed to be together on a gorgeous sunny day.

Immanuel, who is 14, wants to be an actor, so I have a feeling his armor is getting the most use, and Kendall’s sister realized his helmet fit her quite nicely…we may have to build one just for her!

Ryan, thank you for walking The Way and putting time and effort into building this collaboration. You have helped build connection between two valuable communities, and I am continually in awe of the selflessness of Star Wars cosplay clubs!