Neil Alden Armstrong

Neil Alden Armstrong . (www.google.com/images/neil armstrong)

Neil Alden Armstrong is an American astronaut. He was the first man to walk on the surface of the moon. Neil was born on August 5, 1930, in Wapakoneta, Ohio. His love for airplanes and flying started at an early age. His previous occupations was as a Naval aviator and as a Test pilot. He spent 8 days, 14 hours and 12 minutes in space altogether. Since the beginning of time, people have looked up at the moon and wished to go there. Armstrong was the first to accomplish this dream for all of us.

In 1947, Armstrong received a U.S. Navy scholarship and entered Purdue University to study aeronautical engineering. But after only a year and a half, the U.S. Navy called him to active duty and he became a Navy pilot. In 1950, he was sent to Korea where he flew 78 combat missions during the Korean War. He received three air medals for his outstanding service. In 1952, Armstrong returned to Purdue University to finish his studies.

Moon landing made by Neil Armstrong. (www.google.com/images/neil armstrong on the moon)

His first spaceflight was aboard Gemini 8 in 1966, and was the command pilot. On this mission, he performed the first manned docking of two spacecraft together with pilot David Scott. Armstrong's second and last spaceflight was as mission commander of the Apollo 11 moon landing mission on July 20, 1969. On this mission, Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin descended to the lunar surface and spent 2 hours, 30 minutes exploring while Michael Collins remained in orbit in the Command Module. Neil Armstrong is a recipient of the Congressional Space Medal of Honor.

Neil's life taught me that all my goals can be reached no matter how big or how hard. They can be reached if we work hard, work together, are determined and not afraid to take responsible risks. His important contributions to his country and to the world make me proud to say he is my hero.