John Glenn, a former astronaut and U.S. Senator from the State of Ohio, passed away today. After serving as a fighter pilot in WW II and again in the Korean War, he was assigned to the new N.A.S.A. program for astronauts: those specially trained individuals who had the "right stuff". Among other firsts, he was the first American to orbit the earth, a timely event that restored America's position in the space race.
He also set a record for the fastest transcontinental flight, flying West to East in just over 3 hours. His early career as a pilot was for the marines in WW II. After the war, he transitioned into jet aircraft flying combat missions against North Korea, shooting down 3 MIG fighters. On several missions, his wingman was the fabled American athlete, Ted Williams, who had been recalled to the Marines. He, too, had transitioned into jet fighters. On one occasion, Ted's aircraft was hit by enemy fire and he was able to struggle for control and returned to the landing field where he made a wheels-up landing without sustaining any serious injuries. John Glenn called Ted Williams the greatest pilot he ever flew with and one of the best ever.
As a Senator, he represented the people of Ohio for 24 years as one of the most respected members of the chamber. At one point, he entered the race for the White House but did not advance beyond a primary.
Upon retirement, he continued his effort to speak on behalf of efforts to explore the edge of outer space. In 1998, N.A.S.A. invited him to go up with the space shuttle on a mission-at age 77! It was a successful mission and helped researchers look into issues of aging in space.
He lived a full life; defended his country and served the people of the world.
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