25 Years After Disaster, Keeping the Challenger Spirit Alive

NeverCryWolf · #1 01-28-2011, 06:49 AM

25 Years After Disaster, Keeping the Challenger Spirit Alive

Quote:

On the morning of Jan. 28, 1986, there was a collective gasp as Americans watched the space shuttle Challenger break apart just 73 seconds after it lifted off from Florida on what was supposed to be a mission of discovery and education.

All seven astronauts died, including Christa McAuliffe, the first teacher chosen to go into space.

Quote:

In a speech from the Oval Office that night, President Ronald Reagan sought to comfort and reassure a shaken nation.

"We've never lost an astronaut in flight. We've never had a tragedy like this. And perhaps we've forgotten the courage it took for the crew of the shuttle," said Reagan. "But they, the Challenger seven, were aware of the dangers and overcame them and did their jobs brilliantly."

Reagan was keenly aware as he spoke that many schoolchildren had watched the tragedy unfold live on TV in their classrooms just hours earlier. The president spoke directly to them.

"I know it's hard to understand, but sometimes painful things like this happen. It's all part of the process of exploration and discovery. It's all part of taking a chance and expanding man's horizons. The future doesn't belong to the fainthearted -- it belongs to the brave."

FULL ARTICLE HERE

.....We could not have asked for a better President during this time ....

UB_S · #2 01-29-2011, 03:34 AM

Who could ever forget those pictures as well as the speech - I remember it well...

NeverCryWolf · #3 01-29-2011, 05:08 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by UB_S

Who could ever forget those pictures as well as the speech - I remember it well...

He gave a terrific speech ... he always did have the 'character in his voice' to help calm your soul when sad events like this occurred.

Rob B · #4 01-29-2011, 11:37 AM

"to slip the(surily)? bonds of earth to touch the face of GOD" just typing it brought a tear to my eye

NeverCryWolf · #5 01-29-2011, 05:40 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rob B

"to slip the(surily)? bonds of earth to touch the face of GOD" just typing it brought a tear to my eye

I know exactly what you mean Rob!