The crew of the Apollo 11: Neil Armstrong, Michael Collins, and Buzz Aldrin
Tonight, step outside and take a look at the moon. Imagine knowing that a human being is walking around up there. For most Poptropicans, and even their parents, that's all we can do: imagine it. It's never happened in our lives. But the dream became a reality for everybody on planet Earth back on July 21, 1969, when Neil Armstrong became the first person ever to walk on the moon.Upon setting foot on the lunar surface, Commander Armstrong said, "That's one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind." (He meant to say "one small step for a man," but as the story goes, he was so overcome by emotion that he botched the line!) It was a moment of hope and optimism for the entire human race. When they returned for home, the astronauts left behind a plaque that said: "Here Men From The Planet Earth First Set Foot Upon the Moon, July 1969 A.D. We Came in Peace For All Mankind." The plaque is still there.
Neil Armstrong passed away this weekend at the age of 82. His courage continues to inspire millions of people around the globe. Still, you have to wonder: will anybody ever walk on the moon again? What about Mars? I sure hope so.
The next time you look up at the night sky, take a minute to remember the bravery of Neil Armstrong and all the other people who made the risky voyage into outer space. Those first few steps we took into the solar system, we took in the spirit of peace for all mankind -- and for whatever else might be out there. Let's keep exploring!
CAPTAIN CRAWFISH
