On parade day, excitement was in the air as the national media outlets, fans attending the event, and TV viewers around the world anticipated witnessing the largest procession of the 501st members gathered in uniform, as well as film characters, the GSU marching band, the two floats and the Grand Marshal of the parade -- filmmaker George Lucas.
As the parade procession marched down the streets of Pasadena, spectators were noticeably impressed by the floats which started and concluded the
Star Wars Spectacular entry. The lush Endor float featured multiple Ewoks, C-3PO and R2-D2, as well as Chewbacca waving to the crowds, while the breathtaking floral Naboo float featured three Queen Amidalas protected by Jedi Knights Aayla Secura and Luminara Unduli. The
Star Wars Spectacular not only impressed viewers but also the Rose Parade judges, earning the entry the Tournament Special Trophy for Exceptional Merit in Multiple Categories.
"My favorite was being a part of the kick-off of the 30th Anniversary celebration of
Star Wars," Naboo float queen Kelsey Mccala says. "Even though I am young, I can appreciate being a part of something that has lasted this long and grown so huge. Seeing the faces of the kids that were so into
Star Wars at such a young age was great. Being able to wave at people that admired the costumes of the movie as much as I do was an amazing experience."
Bryan Morton from the ConnSquad Garrison walked alongside the floats dressed as an Episode III Anakin Skywalker, and was also impressed by the
Star Wars tribute. "Some might think meeting Mr. Lucas would the best part of this event, but honestly though, the unity, teamwork, dedication and professionalism that the Grambling State University marching band, the 501st Legion, and Lucasfilm put into making this event happen was the most memorable part," Morton says. "I've never met so many amazing people in my life. And having an entire bleacher shout 'WE LOVE ANAKIN!' was personally pretty awesome too."
Adds Lucasfilm Fan Events Coordinator Mary Franklin, "The characters riding the floats and walking beside them were animated and fun. People recognized them and got really excited. Plus the floats themselves were spectacular! The 501st members did an amazing job marching in the parade. The pace was fast -- faster than we anticipated -- and yet they kept up while still keeping their lines straight and looking stunning. I was so proud of their dedication to make this a truly spectacular event."
With the success of Star Wars Spectacular, troopers continue to be grateful that George Lucas honored the 501st by inviting members worldwide to march in the Rose Parade.
"Our presence in the parade shows the world that 'The Maker' notices the efforts of the 501st Legion at charity events and hospital visits we troop at," flag bearer and Michigan Squad Leader of the Midwest Garrison Jon Leopold says. "The positive press also helps disprove the many stereotypes about Star Wars fans."
"During the parade I wanted everyone watching to feel for those few moments that Star Wars was alive and real, and whatever other problems were in their lives would disappear as their imaginations took over," Morton says. "I hope it sparked the love of Star Wars back into everyone who ever wanted to be off in a galaxy far, far away."
For more behind-the-scenes photos, click here: 2007 Rose Parade Star Wars photos
