Many of us remember when President Kennedy, over forty years ago, pledged that America would put a man on the moon before the end of that decade.  While most admired his stirring words, there were those who thought the task not just improbable but impossible… and unnecessarily dangerous.

    But with time, this vision would be realized and the lunar landing would become a reality in 1969. The growth of space travel has brought with it tremendous advancements in the fields of health and medicine, industry, computer technology and the environment.  By exploring the outer limits of our universe, in spite of the challenges it presents, we have ultimately improved the quality of life here on earth.

    The Columbia seven knew well the potential perils associated with space travel-countless statements attributed to the crew prior to their launch make that abundantly clear.  And yet, they departed earth with unequaled joy, collectively fulfilling lifelong dreams.  

    We as a nation had mistakenly come to view space travel as almost routine, but as the fate of the Columbia reminded us it is far from ordinary.  It truly is the final frontier for exploration, requiring us to dare greatly, braving even death, that we might accomplish grand feats of discovery.

    Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with the grieving family members, among them 12 children, who are suffering a profound and personal loss.  We must work to determine what went wrong, and how we can prevent future disasters. 

    But, in the midst of our grief we must not turn our eyes away from the heavens.  The Columbia was undertaking a multitude of experiments, the results of which are necessary for long-duration space flights.  NASA’s primary mission is that of space exploration.  It is one that has rightfully captured our national imagination and wonder.  If we are ever to travel to Mars, or beyond, the work of the shuttle Columbia will be invaluable.  What better tribute to the crew’s memory and to those they leave behind, then to continue in the great work for which they gave their lives.
 
    The memorial service for the fallen crew opened with the hymn “God of Our Fathers,” the first stanza of which reads, “God of our fathers, Whose almighty hand
Leads forth in beauty all the starry band, Of shining worlds in splendor through the skies
Our grateful songs before Thy throne arise.”

    What fitting words for those brave souls, who nurtured that unquenchable yearning planted in the hearts of men and women, to explore this vast creation, forever reaching towards that which is not fully known.