The Times Cycling Campaign

Those dudes in red were useless.

I mean, what's the point in them? They're carrying swords in an age of blasters, and they're protecting a guy who can use the force.

Firstly, ok, I'll admit they were pretty useless. But it looked good to have a posse in those days, everyone had them, Biggie, Tupac, all my mates.
Secondly, they're not "swords" you impudent rebel, they are Force Pikes : http://starwars.wikia.com/wiki/Force_pike

One of those turned up to 11 and stuck up your junta would make you wish you'd never committed whatever extremely petty mistake I was punishing you for.