Neil Armstrong, the first human being to set foot on the moon, has passed away at age 82. Yahoo news has more…
Neil Armstrong was a quiet self-described nerdy engineer who became a global hero when as a steely-nerved pilot he made “one giant leap for mankind” with a small step on to the moon. The modest man who had people on Earth entranced and awed from almost a quarter million miles away has died. He was 82.
Armstrong died following complications resulting from cardiovascular procedures, a statement Saturday from his family said. It didn’t say where he died.
Armstrong commanded the Apollo 11 spacecraft that landed on the moon July 20, 1969, capping the most daring of the 20th century’s scientific expeditions. His first words after setting foot on the surface are etched in history books and the memories of those who heard them in a live broadcast.
“That’s one small step for (a) man, one giant leap for mankind,” Armstrong said.
My generation knew Armstrong well, he was a national, if not international hero. However, I always had the sense that subsequent generations knew little of him. I would assume that the cause for this was Armstrong’s reluctance to make public appearances, or to otherwise capitalize on his achievements.
His humility probably prevented people from knowing of him.
However, we must acknowledge his accomplishments, as well as his most unique place in history-when mankind reached out from their blue planet, to set foot on another world.
RIP Neil Armstrong, America lost a hero today.
Neil Armstrong was a hero and positive role model for our youth. God rest his soul.
Armstrong’ stepping onto the surface o f the moon will be forever etched in my memory. He was the symbol to the world of what is possible.