Muhammed Ali.
Spent about 4 hours with him when he was on a layover in Chicago. Worked for AA at the time and special services was short handed at the time so they asked a couple of mechanics to volunteer to help with the VIPs and such. I simply got lucky on the celeb. He was still able to speak at the time, albeit softly, slurred and slowly, but we sat down in the Admirals club for two hours while he ate and he answered every question with such honesty and was so forthcoming and friendly it was amazing. After his meal he looked at me and asked if I would escort him around the terminal because he wanted "to be with his fans". He was quickly surrounded by adoring fans everywhere. Everyone asking for pictures and such and he posed for energy single one, often shaking his now crooked age softened hands at the camera stating "I'm coming back". Funny thing, every single time he took a picture he insisted that "his handler" (me) be right next to him. He even joked about me being the key to his comeback.
Time quickly passed and it was time to get him boarded and buckled. He boarded early and i was attempting to assist him with his seat belt as his dexterity had long since left him and I didn't have the heart to watch my hero as a kid struggle with anything while others looked on. Once he was secure I thanked him and turned to leave the airplane and while I was walking down the aisle I heard him unbuckle his belt. I turned around to find Muhammed Ali standing behind me with outstretched arms insisting that he get a hug from me. He gave me a presigned autograph card and told me to write his address down and that if I were to ever need anything or wanted a good meal to look him up. Then he hugged me and told me how much he appreciated me and I said the same. I turned and walked down the jet bridge crying my eyes out. Was one of the most awe inspiring moments I'll ever have. We talked about Foreman and Frazier,who he stated but him harder than anyone in his life. Was just awesome. What a day that was.
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