'Star Wars' characters invade LI museum

Stars Wars characters like stormtroopers and Jedi were on hand Saturday at the Cradle of Aviation. Credit: Daryl Thomen
The "Star Wars" galaxy did not feel so far, far away Saturday at the Cradle of Aviation Museum.
Families had the opportunity to take photos with stormtroopers, Jedi and other familiar characters from director George Lucas' "Star Wars" universe all the while raising awareness of the museum's effort to increase patronage.
The museum had nearly five times more than the usual number of patrons, thanks to members of two popular "Star Wars" costuming organizations, the 501st Legion's Empire City Garrison and the Rebel Legion's Echo Base.
Having done charity events across Long Island and around the world, the volunteer organizations have been bringing their enthusiasm of "Star Wars" back to the community in a helping way.
"We take pride in making very movie accurate replica costume," said Chris Feehan of Mineola. "You're going to see the best example of a costume from one of the ['Star Wars'] movies."
Up next for the costumed heros and villains is the Long Island Toy Show.

'I've never seen fire sitting on the water' Three Newsday photographers talk to NewsdayTV's Macy Egeland about covering the tragic crash of TWA Flight 800 in 1996.

'I've never seen fire sitting on the water' Three Newsday photographers talk to NewsdayTV's Macy Egeland about covering the tragic crash of TWA Flight 800 in 1996.