At Celebration Chicago, Montie had the chance to make another Star Wars memory when actor Sam Witwer (voice of Darth Maul in Star Wars animated series and Solo: A Star Wars Story) visited the Rancho Obi-Wan booth where he was working as a volunteer. “I actually got to meet him right here!” Montie explained with joy in the midst of the exhibit display.

Of course, Star Wars fans come from everywhere, and for Montie that’s one of the best things about this fandom. “No matter where you are, you will always find a Star Wars fan,” he says. “I met someone wearing a T-shirt at the Trevi Fountain in Rome. In Greece I found someone with a Star Wars hat at the Parthenon. And back here in the United States I’m always seeing decals on cars. We represent the whole world. No one can stop the Force once it’s in your blood.”

An active volunteer in his own community in Chicago, Montie helps put on charity events, sometimes even with a Star Wars theme. He’s also been inspired by fellow fans like the proud members of the 501^st Legion costuming club. “I remember the first time I heard of the 501^st back in 2002,” he explains. “It was amazing to see a group of fans like myself doing good for the community.” In recognition of his own charitable work, Montie was made an honorary member of the Midwest Garrison.

Star Wars fans are a worldwide family. Gatherings like Celebration are an opportunity to pick up where old friendships left off and to start entirely new ones. “The one thing we have in common is Star Wars,” says Montie. “It’s all about the stories we share with each other, from our first experiences to right here today.” In short, to Montie, Star Wars means “friends and family.”

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