LOS ANGELES, May 21 (UPI) -- Darth Vader and Imperial storm troopers will break from quelling the rebel alliance to go to Los Angeles to mark 30 years since "Star Wars" premiered.
These troopers who will storm Los Angeles this weekend for the anniversary and the "Star Wars"-themed convention Celebration IV, are sales managers, software consultants and police officers, the San Jose (Calif.) Mercury News reported Monday. But as their alter egos, they are members of the 501st Legion, an international organization devoted to the intergalactic villains.
"Star Wars" creator George Lucas endorses the 501st Legion, enlisting members for events and openings promoting "Star Wars" movies and video games.
The organization's name had no ties to the movie when founder Albin Johnson of South Carolina originally chose it in 1997. The 501st entered the "Star Wars" glossary when Lucasfilm approved incorporating it into the "Star Wars" novel "Survivor's Quest," the newspaper said.
Lucasfilms permits members to wear the costumes if their appearances are free. So, the group participates in fundraising and appearances at birthday parties, weddings and the children's wards of hospitals.
"They have become such goodwill ambassadors," Steve Sansweet, director of content management and head of fan relations for Lucasfilm, told the Mercury News. "For that, we're really blessed."
