Neil Armstrong: one giant step to the future
August 26, 2012
NASA provided the following statement from the Armstrong family regarding the death of former test pilot and NASA astronaut Neil Armstrong. He was 82.
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.

Comments (7)
by Roland
Last night I looked at the moon and as I winked at the moon I realized that for the first time in my conscious life Neil wasn’t a part of our universe.
by Carl Brooks
The star at the top of the tree of human endevour. Rest In Peace
by bhoffarth
God bless Mr. Armstrong and his family. What an inspiration to those of us left to dream about the many places yet to explore and build the technology to get us there.
by MrFriendly
A really nice guy who had amazing courage. I really wish I could have met him.
by Justin
Truly a name that will live on for as long as humanity exists.
by Bri
A towering figure of our time. Unbelievably charismatic, he influenced and inspired countless people to explore and challenge our world. He lived his life to the fullest. One of the corner stone in the foundation of humanities search for knowledge. Full of the right stuff. He shall forever be in our hearts. A shining star leading us into the future.
by Logic
A true pioneer, and so humble that people aren’t paying his passing the attention he deserves. You will always be an inspiration, Mr Armstrong.