RIP Neil Armstrong

[Hobbit]

Just hearing reports that Neil Armstrong, the first man to walk on the Moon, has died, after an operation on August 7th.

He was 82.

Will update later as more information becomes available.

LATER EDIT: Now confirmed. Sadly.

Mark

[Loerwyn]

Another death? These past few weeks have been horrible.

He had a good run, though, and he'll go down in history and likely never be forgotten. An inspiration to many, and hopefully many more.

My thoughts are with his friends and family.

[PeterWilliam]

Yeah, an oddly tough one, that. I remember being quite small and my father telling me what a big deal Armstrong's achievement was. My first real "when I grow up..." hopes came from that as I could see that my dad admired this man. Though I, obviously, never became an astronaut, Armstrong reminds me of a time when the world was new to me, when my father and I were still close.

[Hobbit]

I was 5 years old and was woken up at night by my Dad, who 'wanted to show me something special'. On a little black and white television, the BBC were showing live pictures, though it was early morning here in the UK (3am-4 am?)

The picture was small, jumpy and blurry, yet I remember the words from the small TV speaker: 'The Eagle has landed.' and 'It's one small step for a man....'

Thanks, Neil. Thanks, Dad.

The Armstrong family have sent out a press release HERE. I think the last part is brilliant:

“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.”

Mark

[tmso]

That is bitter-sweet. I will do so tonight.

[Action Avenue]

Yes, RIP Mr. Armstrong, a genuine hero of science and mankind.