This news item is courtesy of D. F. Rogers:
Memphis, Tenn. (Denro News) — Elvis Presley celebrated his 73rd birthday today in a quiet gathering held at his Graceland Mansion in Memphis. His daughter, Lisa Marie Presley, and her children, presented him with a golden, diamond encrusted guitar-shaped belt buckle.
Elvis, still known as “The King Of Rock and Roll”, has kept a low profile for the past few years due to ongoing health concerns. A near death experience in August 1977 caused a drastic lifestyle change for the beloved American Icon. After a months-long recovery from a heart attack, complicated by a serious prescription drug addiction, Presley fired his longtime manager, Tom Parker, and greatly reduced his public appearances.
He recorded mainly gospel tunes for the next ten years and his fans consider these to be some of his most passionate performances. His epic three hour concert in July 2004, marking fifty years in the recording industry, was his last major public appearance.
Elvis took his grandchildren for a ride around the Graceland grounds today and waved to the several hundred fans gathered outside the gates. Elvis is reportedly working an album of duets with a variety of contemporary performers, tentatively scheduled to be released this summer.
Elvis Presley, “Star Wars Summer”, 1977
It looks like he should be holding a light sabre, but that would be silly! He’s not a Jedi. And that’s not a very big cup he’s wearing.
The Stormtrooper is TCB-1935, and is the only one allowed to go appear in public without the requisite battle helmet. Why hide a face like that!