Star Wars fans give back through service in the 501st
A Stormtrooper, Princess Leia, and Chewbacca make appearance on a baseball field in 2015.
Some "Star Wars" fans already know the meaning behind the name “501st Legion” a squadron of Stormtroopers that shows up to bring galactic wonders from the big screen to reality.
John Henry, a member from Mount Pleasant, said the Legion is an all-volunteer organization, formed fans willing to wear costumes of "Star Wars" characters and take part in costumed charity events and volunteer work.
Another member of the 501st, Kevin Johnson, said there are more than 8,000 members in 47 countries, divided into garrisons which cover the activity management of entire countries (such as Germany or Italy) or states — Michigan’s garrison, is called “The Great Lakes Garrison.”
According to its website, honorary members include George Lucas, Hayden Christensen, John Williams, Carrie Fisher, Mark Hamill, Samuel L. Jackson, Stan Lee, Christopher Lee and many others.
“I found the group to be a great way to combine my love of "Star Wars" with my passion for doing charity work,” Johnson said.
Some of Henry’s most moving experiences working with the legion were children’s hospitals visits.
“Some of the children are obviously suffering from terminal illness, but getting to watch their faces light up and smile when we walk into their room is something I will never forget,” he said.
Johnson said the Legion meets up during specific parades and comic events such as Motor City Comic Con, Detroit Tigers "Star Wars" Night or the Maker Faire at The Henry Ford Museum. A big fan of the Tigers, Johnson said he had one of his best experiences when he walked onto the field at Comerica Park for "Star Wars" Night.
Johnson said “The Great Lakes Garrison” usually participates in three to four events a month across Michigan, including the Upper Peninsula.
Henry said people can request the presence of 501st by filling a form at their main website 501st.com.
Being part of it requires hard work and dedication, Henry said. Most of the costumes are crafted with a constant careful handwork.
“Chewbacca is one of the most difficult costumes (to make). I spent over a year and a half building it,” he said.
Both Johnson and Henry said that they have been great fans of the series since their early childhood.
“I was three years old when Episode IV came out. I will never forget the opening scenes of the Star Destroyer attacking Princess Leia’s ship,” Johnson said.
Henry recalled the moment in which his father read to him the “opening scroll” of "Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back" as he watched the letters “getting smaller and smaller.”
Being part of the Legion means developing not only a love for charity work and parades, but even a deep bond of friendship and esteem.
“I suppose, in an ironic way, we are kind of like the Jedi,” Johnson said.
Right now, Johnson said troops are gathering at movie theaters in Livonia, Lansing, Grand Rapids and Clinton Township, but more will be coming in as time will get closer to the movie release.
“Watch out for us at your local theater,” warned Henry.
