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This is the Best Man toast that I gave at Tom and Rachel’s wedding, May 30, 2009 at the Army Navy Country Club in Arlington, Va. I hope you enjoyed it if you heard me give it and if not, take a look. Thanks.

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Before beginning, I’d like to offer my sincerest gratitude to Rachel and Tom for allowing me to be part of this special occasion. I would also like to say thank you for all the hard work you’ve done to make this the special day that it is. And, of course, my thanks to our parents, Dr. and Mrs. Leary, for all of your support and all that you’ve done to make this the perfect day.

With the honor of being the best man comes the responsibility of writing this speech. To be honest with you, I didn’t know what I was going to say – so — I decided to do what anyone would do — search the internet… After hours of looking at good stuff I remembered I was supposed to be researching a best man speech…..

For years, Tom has been my companion on many great adventures. Backpacking through the mountains of New Mexico, Scuba diving the coral reefs of Florida, camping above the Arctic Circle in Alaska, mountain biking the slickrock of Moab, and hunting and skiing the mountains of Colorado. Throughout all of these adventures I knew that I could count on him. I knew that no matter what we encountered Tom’s intellect, common sense, planning, determination, and strength would see us through – and — I hope he felt the same way about me.

Over the past few years I’ve watched how Tom has spent his time, and I know what’s important to him… It’s Rachel. She has made Tom a happy man. I’ve known Tom my whole life and Rachel for many years and I can honestly say that they are perfect for each another. They have to be – did you see how close they sat together — for years — in those cubicles at Lexecon?

Although Rachel has had a difficult past few years, she is always a joy to be around. She lights up any room with her poise, grace, and beauty. I look forward to having Rachel as not only a part of our family, but a friend as well.

I would like to thank everyone for coming and ask you to join me in toasting Tom and Rachel as they begin a new adventure together.

© 2009 James Leary