Luke Skywalker is alerting Ukraine to Russian air raids

Mark Hamill attends the Premiere of Disney's "Star Wars: The Rise Of Skywalker" on December 16, 2019 in Hollywood, California.
Mark Hamill attends the Premiere of Disney's "Star Wars: The Rise Of Skywalker" on December 16, 2019 in Hollywood, California. Photo credit Rich Fury/Getty Images

To lend support to Ukraine in its ongoing fight against Russian invasion, famed actor Mark Hamill, known for his many roles, most notably as Luke Skywalker in “Star Wars,” is lending his voice to the country.

Hamill, who has an extensive voice acting portfolio, has recently voiced warnings on the app Air Alert, which notifies Ukrainians of incoming Russian missiles.

In the warnings voiced by Hamill, the alert says, “Attention. Air raid alert. Proceed to the nearest shelter. Don’t be careless. Your overconfidence is your weakness.”

The alert ends with Hamill saying, “The alert is over. May the Force be with you.”

Hamill has been voicing the alerts for the app since the end of last year, but he recently spoke with The Associated Press about them, saying that what’s happening in Ukraine is like a “fairy tale about good versus evil.” He also says that the smaller country’s fight against Russia is reminiscent of the story in “Star Wars.”

“The Ukrainian people rallying to the cause and responding so heroically,” Hamill said. “It’s impossible not to be inspired by how they’ve weathered this storm.”

Not only is he lending his iconic voice, but Hamill is also raising funds to buy reconnaissance drones for Ukraine in order to help them in their defense of their country. He is collecting the funds partly by selling signed posters and memorabilia.

Overall, the actor shared on social media that his fundraisers have helped raise over $310,000.

Air Alert was co-developed by Ajax Systems, the Ukrainian security systems manufacturer. The app has been downloaded by more than 14 million people, and the company hopes more will join thanks to Hamill’s contributions.

Last week Hamill shared on Twitter that he was speaking with Ukrainian service members via Zoom, thanking his fans for their donations.

“Today I’ll be meeting with members of the Ukrainian Army of drone operators via zoom to thank them for their service, offer my encouragement & get the latest update on their progress. I also want to thank YOU for your much-needed donations,” Hamill tweeted.

Featured Image Photo Credit: Rich Fury/Getty Images