John Glenn
1921-2016
Being the first American to orbit Earth and a lifelong explorer of space and public service
Early Life
John Glenn was born in Cambridge, Ohio, and grew up in the nearby town of New Concord. As a child, he loved airplanes and science, and he dreamed of flying high in the sky.
He worked hard in school and learned to be curious and brave. These qualities helped him follow his dreams and face big challenges later in life.
Becoming a Pilot
When John Glenn was a young man, he joined the U.S. Marine Corps and became a fighter pilot. He flew many missions and became known for being calm and skilled in the cockpit.
He also became a test pilot, which means he flew new airplanes to see how they worked. This job was risky, but John trusted his training and stayed focused.
Journey to Space
In 1962, John Glenn made history by becoming the first American to orbit Earth. He flew aboard a spacecraft called Friendship 7.
As he zoomed around the planet three times, millions of people watched and cheered. His mission showed that humans could travel safely in space.
Life After Space
John Glenn didn’t stop exploring after his spaceflight. He became a United States Senator from Ohio and served for many years, working to help people and protect the environment.
Even in his later years, he stayed curious. At age 77, he returned to space to help scientists learn how space travel affects older people. At the time, this made him the oldest person to travel in space.
Legacy
John Glenn is remembered as a brave explorer and a caring leader. He showed kids and adults that learning never ends and that dreams can come true at any age.
His life teaches us to be curious, work hard, and never stop reaching for the stars.
🎉 Fun Facts
John Glenn orbited Earth three times in less than five hours.
At age 77, he became the oldest person to travel in space at that time.
His spacecraft was named Friendship 7.
He enjoyed supporting science experiments and helping students learn about space.