Neil Armstrong Died

Photo of Armstrong inside the Lunar Module just after he and Aldrin completed their historic moon walk.

Neil Armstrong, the first man to step on the surface of the moon, died at 2:45 p.m. yesterday after suffering complications from his recent cardiac bypass surgery. He was 82 years old.

Armstrong and his fellow Apollo 11 astronaut, Buzz Aldrin, landed their lunar module on the moon on July 20, 1969 at 4:14:40 p.m. EST. People from all around the world were watching and listening on televisions and radios, holding their breath until they heard Armstrong say, "Houston, Tranquility base here. The Eagle has landed."

Six hours later on July 21, Armstrong step onto the lunar surface and said, "That's one small step for man, one giant step for mankind."

Michael Collins, a third member of the mission, remained alone in orbit around the moon until they returned from the surface 15 hours later. All three men completed the 8 day mission and returned to Earth safely.

I remember watching those historic event enfold on television as if it were yesterday.

Armstong's family released the following statement:

“We are heartbroken to share the news that Neil Armstrong has passed away following complications resulting from cardiovascular procedures.

Neil was our loving husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend.

Neil Armstrong was also a reluctant American hero who always believed he was just doing his job. He served his Nation proudly, as a navy fighter pilot, test pilot, and astronaut. He also found success back home in his native Ohio in business and academia, and became a community leader in Cincinnati.

He remained an advocate of aviation and exploration throughout his life and never lost his boyhood wonder of these pursuits.

As much as Neil cherished his privacy, he always appreciated the expressions of good will from people around the world and from all walks of life.

While we mourn the loss of a very good man, we also celebrate his remarkable life and hope that it serves as an example to young people around the world to work hard to make their dreams come true, to be willing to explore and push the limits, and to selflessly serve a cause greater than themselves.

For those who may ask what they can do to honor Neil, we have a simple request. Honor his example of service, accomplishment and modesty, and the next time you walk outside on a clear night and see the moon smiling down at you, think of Neil Armstrong and give him a wink.”