"It didn't take long for reach to fall: Our enemy was ruthless. Efficent. But they weren't nearly fast enough. For you had already passed the torch. And because of you, we found halo. Unlocked its secret, shattered our enemys resolve. Our victory-your victory was so close. I wish you could have lived to see it. But you belong to reach. Your body, your armor-all burned and turned to glass. Everything... Except your courage. That you gave to us. And with it. We can rebuild.. 
-Doctor Catherine halsey.

They let me pick, did I ever tell you that? Choose whichever Spartan Iwanted. You know me. I did my research, watched as you became the soldier we needed you to be. Like the others, you were strong and swift and brave. A natural leader. But you had something they didn't. Something no one saw... but me. Can you guess? Luck. Was I wrong?" 
-Cortana