39. Wedge Antilles – Michigan
The state of Michigan is the hub for the U.S. auto industry. Many automotive companies have their headquarters in the state, more specifically, in the Detroit area. Those who know the ins and outs of the auto industry, including mechanics, have always been in high demand within Michigan. The legendary Wedge Antilles probably would have loved to retire as a Rebel pilot to work as a mechanic in Michigan.
Wedge Antilles first served as a TIE fighter pilot in the Imperial Navy until he defected to join the rebel forces. With his history as a mechanic, he easily took on the role of a pilot. During the Battle of Yavin, Wedge served as a member of the Red Squadron alongside Luke. He and Luke were the only two X-Wing pilots to survive the battle.
Wedge’s most memorable scene came in Empire Strikes Back during the Battle of Hoth. While flying T-47 airspeeders, Wedge was given the task of taking down the first AT-AT. He and his gunner used the speeder’s tow cables to tangle the feet of the walker which caused it to crash to the ground. Wedge then shot at the weak point of the AT-AT, destroying the walker. His knowledge of all types of ships and vehicles clearly gave him the advantage. Wedge made another appearance in Return of the Jedi as the leader of the Red Squadron during the Battle of Endor.