Star Trek: 10 Greatest Captain Kirk Speeches

In many ways, the relationship between Kirk and Spock became the gold standard against which all others were judged. Though they come from different worlds, the camaraderie was an inspiration for many of the captain/officer pairings throughout the franchise. Kirk was almost the truly human, while Spock was the highly logical Vulcan. Spock's half-human nature often played a significant role in his understanding of the universe.

Though he had chosen the Vulcan way of life, there was an emotional element to his actions, at all times. One could argue that his emotions made his logical choices even more astute, aided as they were by his gut reactions. It was that gut reaction that inspired Spock to make the ultimate sacrifice in Star Trek II: The Wrath Of Khan. Perhaps entering that chamber was the logical choice - but it was his desire to see his friends saved that truly spurred him into action.

With his body concealed in a casket, Admiral Kirk delivers the eulogy that broke hearts throughout the fandom.

Of my friend, I can only say. Of all the souls that I have met in my travels, his was the most...human.

The speech, delivered perfectly by Shatner, summed up years of friendship, of love, and experience succinctly. Not a dry eye in the house.