Max Sterling - Pre-Macross Appearance

Pre-Macross Appearance

Orphaned during the Global War, Max nonetheless had an avid interest in flying and military technology, although he originally had no interest in joining the military. According to the Robotech: Love and War comics, Max, along with his friend Ben Dixon, was in attendance for the celebration at Macross Island that marked the SDF-1's maiden launch when the Zentraedi attacked. During the attack, Max becomes one of the first humans to see a Zentraedi in person. He is rescued from the attack by Lieutenant Jonathan Wolfe.

Like many of the civilians stranded aboard the battle fortress, Max volunteered for the effort to rebuild Macross City inside the ship. Due to boredom, both he and Ben volunteered for the SDF-1's military forces and began training as veritech pilots several months later. After completing training, Max promised Ben's mother that he would take care of Ben and ensure his safety. However, Max is unable to keep this promise as Ben dies in the line of duty in the First Robotech War.