Star Wars' Fans Rally to Build Life-Sized AT-AT

For those Blaze readers who aren't "Star Wars" fanatics, this is an AT-AT:

According to StarWars.com, AT-AT stands for an "all terrain armored transport."  These fictional imperial behemoths made their debut in the original "Empire Strikes Back" on the frozen planet Hoth, but a group of dedicated "Star Wars" fans is hoping to bring one to the United States.

Michael Koehler, a 38-year-old social media consultant from Oklahoma City, has launched a campaign called "AT-AT for America." CNET reports:

His vision is simple: create a fully functional, full-scale AT-AT by including anyone who is interested in helping build the colossal transport. The project almost reads like a political movement, as Koehler believes a collective effort to build an AT-AT will help boost morale in the U.S. by showing the world "our brain power, our manufacturing prowess, our organizational skills and our geek-fueled eye for detail." He declares that the larger-than-life model would inspire the "nerds, makers, geeks, motorheads, sportos, dudes, steampunks, Jedis, halfwits, greasers and geniuses to band together for one goal." ...

Koehler notes on the AT-AT for America Web site that the project has received volunteer support from roboticists, engineers, and even someone from MIT. There is an open call for people to contribute as builders and project managers, as well as in legal and public relations roles.

How much does one of these things actually cost?

While no one knows for sure, Koehler tells The Blaze that his group has raised about $300 in donations so far, but hopes to collect $50,000 once their online fundraising campaign kicks off.  Looking for additional help, the AT-AT for America group has even reached out to President Obama:

If you want the country to be more united than divided, if you want the country to look toward a bright future instead of a divided past, if you want America to make something awesome again, then join us.

One Nation. One Dream. One AT-AT.

Hopefully Osama bin Laden won't have access to a snow speeder and tow cables...