Neil Armstrong, the first man to walk on the Moon, has died at the age of 82 from complications following heart surgery. He was the first person to walk on the Moon His other crew member Edwin Aldrin.
Statement from Buzz Aldrin, Apollo 11 lunar module pilot:
“I am very saddened to learn of the passing of Neil Armstrong today. Neil and I trained together as technical partners but were also good friends who will always be connected through our participation in the Apollo 11 mission. Whenever I look at the moon it reminds me of the moment over four decades ago when I realized that even though we were farther away from earth than two humans had ever been, we were not alone. Virtually the entire world took that memorable journey with us. I know I am joined by millions of others in mourning the passing of a true American hero and the best pilot I ever knew. My friend Neil took the small step but giant leap that changed the world and will forever be remembered as a landmark moment in human history. I had truly hoped that in 2019, we would be standing together along with our colleague Mike Collins to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of our moon landing. Regrettably, this is not to be. Neil will most certainly be there with us in spirit.
“On behalf of the Aldrin family, we extend our deepest condolences to Carol and the entire Armstrong family. I will miss my friend Neil as I know our fellow citizens and people around world will miss this foremost aviation and space pioneer.”
Statement from Joe Engle, former X-15 pilot and NASA astronaut:
“Neil was indeed the greatest. His humility and reluctance to stand in the spotlight as the first human to set foot on the moon are well known and respected. But mention flying airplanes, and in particular flying the X-15, and he would light up, his eyes would twinkle, and you could barely get a word in edgewise – nor would you want to. Neil was a great American, a great test pilot, a great engineer, but most importantly, a great friend. We’ll miss him, but we’re so thankful we had the opportunity to know and fly with him. Our thoughts and prayers are with Carol and his family.”
Statement from Glenn Research Center Director Ray Lugo:
“Our condolences reach out to his wife Carol and surround the entire Armstrong Family. The loss of Neil is felt by the entire NASA community and especially by his Ohio-based NASA family at the Glenn Research Center. Neil remains a national treasure; a pioneering astronaut, test pilot, aerospace engineer and professor; the first man to set foot on the moon. He has helped turn the complexities, challenges and stumbling blocks of space exploration into stepping stones that others have followed and a brilliant trail for the future explorers. His legacy will inspire those who will follow in his footsteps to Dream Big.”
Statement from Kennedy Space Center Director Bob Cabana:
Neil Armstrong was a true American hero, and one of the nicest gentlemen around. He was the epitome of what an engineering test pilot should be, and a role model for everyone who aspired to be an astronaut.
“He always took the time to share his thoughts on technical issues and his experiences from the past.
“I feel very privileged to have known him. He will be missed.”
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