[Source] A parade saber, also known as a ceremonial officer's saber, was a type of sword utilized by the Galactic Empire. They were worn by Imperial officers for ceremonial purposes, and were not meant to be used for warfare. Han Solo, a former Imperial lieutenant, once dreamed that he was publicly read out of the military as a cadet. The ceremony involved another officer snapping the ceremonial saber—the blade of which had been weakened by a laser score in advance—over their knee.