Always and Forever
Gentlebeings of the Alliance, I thank you for coming.
We have gathered here today to honor and celebrate the life of a man who was family to many, and friend to even more. All of you here have met him at some point, and whether you knew him well or not, you know how instinctively likable he was. I know that from personal experience.
A few hours after we met, he was sent out into battle, and I found myself far more worried for his safety than is normal for a mere acquaintance. I soon found out that once you got to be an acquaintance, you were a steadfast friend for life.
But he was more than a friend or
honorary family member to eleven of you here today. To you eleven, he
was a Commander, a fearless leader. He was the one who saved your
skin in battle, and saved your credits at the sabacc table, by making
sure the games didn't last all night long.
He was witty, wise and wonderful; patient, playful, and strong. I could go on all day spouting adjectives like caring, fantastic, sweet, gentle, and kind, but that still wouldn't be enough to say who he really was. I can say what he was—a pilot, a Commander, a friend, a compatriot, a farmboy, a brother, a son, an honorary cousin, a playmate, a leader, a Jedi Knight—but even all of these can't sum up who he was. I don't think words can describe him.
He was loving, and loved. To say anything less would be an insult.
May the Force be with you, always and forever.
Rest in peace, Luke Skywalker.
You will be missed.