25 Aug Buzz Aldrin’s Official Statement on the Passing of Neil Armstrong
I am deeply saddened by the passing of my good friend, and space exploration companion, Neil Armstrong today. As Neil, Mike Collins and I trained together for our historic Apollo 11 Mission, we understood the many technical challenges we faced, as well as the importance and profound implications of this historic journey. We will now always be connected as the crew of the Apollo 11 mission to the moon, yet for the many millions who witnessed that remarkable achievement for humankind, we were not alone.
Whenever I look at the moon I am reminded of that precious moment, over four decades ago, when Neil and I stood on the desolate, barren, yet beautiful, Sea of Tranquility, looking back at our brilliant blue planet Earth suspended in the darkness of space, I realized that even though we were farther away from earth than two humans had ever been, we were not alone. Virtually the entire world took that memorable journey with us. I know I am joined by many millions of others from around the world in mourning the passing of a true American hero and the best pilot I ever knew. My friend Neil took the small step but giant leap that changed the world and will forever be remembered as a historic moment in human history.
I had truly hoped that on July 20th, 2019, Neil, Mike and I would be standing together to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of our moon landing, as we also anticipated the continued expansion of humanity into space, that our small mission helped make possible. Regrettably, this is not to be. Neil will most certainly be there with us in spirit.
On behalf of the Aldrin family, we extend our deepest condolences to Carol and the entire Armstrong family. I will miss my friend Neil as I know our fellow citizens and people around world will miss this foremost aviation and space pioneer.
May he Rest in Peace, and may his vision for our human destiny in space be his legacy.
BUZZ ALDRIN
Mohammad
Posted at 02:39h, 28 AugustRespected Sir,
In 1969, I was in Class II at a Primary School in Bangladesh. We were so exited to learn from the students of Class IV that 3 people from our globe had reached to moon to build a house – so that we can go and stay there during our holidays.
I can remember your, Mike and Neil’s smiling photo in our Daily Newspaper.
One thing Sir, that time your name was mentioned as Edwin Aldrin, now we have found it as Buzz Aldrin.
Sir, would you please clarify it, so that I can inform it to my kids here how ‘Edwin becomes Buzz’?
Mohammad Abdullah
Dhaka, Bangladesh.
Carl Rudenschöld
Posted at 02:38h, 28 AugustI will never forget that day when a human being first set foot upon the moon. It is one of my most cherished moments from my youth. I will always remember your bold achievement those vibrant days in 1969. Neil Armstrong and his crew will also be remembered as representatives for the very best characteristics of the human race; curiosity, courage and humility. My deepest condolences to his family, friends and co-workers and I will continue to honor your performance every time I watch the moon.
Bill Smith (52 E: Bartow
Posted at 23:55h, 27 AugustDear Buzz, I drove from New Jersey to Westover AFB Mass. that day to be home and see you two emerge from the Eagle. It was one of my life’s highlights to see Neil and you on the moon. I’m sorry Neil has passed on to his next exploration trip. We will follow. I have always been very poud to know “My Man on the Moon.”
As ever, Your friend, Bill Smith Class 52Easy
Grant Hillemeyer
Posted at 22:57h, 27 AugustWell said Buzz. My condolences to Neil’s family and friends. The lunar landing is one of the great human achievements, and only a little more than six decades after the first powered flight!
Neil brought to his country, through his strength and intelligence, his love of life and adventure, great honor, and so we remember him.
Alistair Longman
Posted at 22:56h, 27 AugustThe sheer magnitude of the moon-landing effort is something that amazes me constanty. How could mankind get it together to get 3 men on the moon and then back again in 1969?!?! Incredible! Neil Armstrong’s legacy makes me believe that under the right conditions, mankind could overcome all the serious biggies like global warming, famine, extreme poverty, fossil fuel addiction and bad rap music.
Bob Tres
Posted at 22:38h, 27 AugustI was Teaching my Environmental Nature Center students about flight one week before this. “Thrust, lift, drag, and weight.” We made paper airplanes and parachutes. We watched Apollo 11 clips landing on the moon and splashdown. I told them that Neil was sick but would probably be ok. I told them that Buzz was their neighbor. Its been a shock
BoB
Lynn Peterson
Posted at 22:26h, 27 AugustYou and Neil and your fellow lunar explorers have walked where, before, only the gods of the Ancients had walked.
The moon is up now, it floats like a great pearl in the dark sky. Soon it will be full, a blue moon for the end of summer.
Thank you, Buzz, Mike, Neil, for making that beautiful light in the sky a realm of Mankind.
Good night, CDR Armstrong.
Rest well, among the stars.
Jose D. Jaramillo
Posted at 22:25h, 27 AugustI feel a Great Loss has taken place, but how Proud and Honored I am that he lived to do what he did. It just AWES
me ever time I think of what the tree of you did up there on lthe Moon!!! I am so proud that I got to work in Aerospace and I was able to meet two Apollo astronauts, you Buzz and Jim Lovel. I would have loved to have met Neil as well!
Not to mentin Mike.
All I can say is that the world is a better place for having Neil around! May he rest in peace.
Every time I look up at the Moon I will always think of him!!!
With Great Admiration and Love!
Jose D. Jaramillo
Gary Allison
Posted at 21:39h, 27 AugustWell written. You will both forever be my heroes. The world needs more Neil Armstrongs. The world needs more Buzz Aldrins.
Rose
Posted at 21:21h, 27 AugustI think you all were my heroes. I remember just being in awe of the space program and as a result, I have been teaching science for 26 years. Thank you for your comments on Neil Armstrong. We spoke of your mission last week and revisited it today in my classes in commemoration of his passing. It was a beautiful thing.
Cynthia Whisennand
Posted at 19:49h, 27 AugustI remember watching the moon laniding on TV with my greatgrandmother who had lived from mans first powered flight to man landing on the moon. I saved every scrape of paper in the news for my scrapbook outlined in green or purple crayon. Buzz, we met at a book signing in Dallas, TX and I always hoped to meet Neil Armstrong also. My husband Dietrich and our son Matthew appreciated reading your thoughts about the passing of this great American.
Shivananda Biradar
Posted at 19:08h, 27 AugustWe the human world really lost the hero of mankind not of any country. May God bless Neil Armstrong to get rebirth again on our earth. I appreciate his courage, inteligency, dedication to reach to beautiful moon. We lost not only the body of Neil but his ideas and knowdlege. May his soul rest in the peace .
Thelma Davidson
Posted at 18:57h, 27 AugustLast Fall I had the opportunity to visit the Neil Armstrong space museum in his home town. It was a wonderful experience. I was informed that Neil had not wanted this museum built in his honor but his proud community built it anyways. It was interesting and memorable. You have lost a colleague and we have lost a space pioneer. Stay well, Buzz Aldrin, so we can celebrate the first moon landing together on its 50th anniversary. And we will remember Neil and all the people that made the mission a success. God bless you and your family. Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Ivor Williams
Posted at 17:22h, 27 AugustAs an impressionable 8 year old back in 1969. You, Neil and Mike an everlasting impression on me and to this day, I have tried to live as honest a life as you three have and my biggest regret is that I will never leave a legacy such as yours. God bless you and Mike and RIP Neil.
Bob Kulick
Posted at 16:26h, 27 AugustThank you for your words as well as both your service and inspiration to the world, Mr. Aldrin. Although I was only eleven when the two of you walked on the moon, I remember the day as if it were yesterday. I said then that if I ever had the opportunity to go to space, I would do it. Thanks to Virgin Galactic, it looks like that will happen. Mr. Armstrong will be missed.
Joe Sims
Posted at 16:16h, 27 AugustI had the opportunity of meeting Neil Armstrong only 4 weeks ago at the Discovery Channel gala in Flagstaff . He looked so well and healthy and it was such a memorable experience shaking his hand and having my photo with this American space hero. He gave a wonderful presentation of his Moon landing while he conveyed such enthusiasm and energy for an 82 year old. His loss is now that much greater . Rest in peace Mr. Moonman and I will be admiring the Moon so much more as will all those throughout the world. )
Paolo Bertola
Posted at 16:01h, 27 AugustCaro Buzz,
le porgo le mie più sentite condoglianze per la perdita di un grande amico.
Questo è l’ultimo volo di Neil verso l’infinito.
Buona missione Comandante Armstrong.
Paolo Bertola
Parma (Italia)
Patrick
Posted at 15:45h, 27 AugustNeil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, Mike Collins, 3 Stars of Legend.
Your place is forever, in each of the Pillars of Creation in the Eagle Nebula !
I was 13 years old, and you are all my heroes with lovell Borman, Bean, Conrad, Shepard, etc…
The Apollo adventure, what extraordinary memory, which has left an indelible mark throughout my life!
Merci, Buzz, Neill, Mike, thank you for so much dreaming!
Merci, thank you for the open doors of the Universe, Astronomy, Physics …
And no matter who was the first to set foot on the moon, all you have to participate as a single man!
Merci, Thank you Buzz!
Peace your soul Neill and bon voyage to Paradise Astronauts!
Patrick from France
Faye Waddington
Posted at 15:29h, 27 AugustI was for us a cold Winter evening in Sao Paulo, Brazil and in absolute silent awe we remained glued to our tv set in a darkened living-room, so no details would escape us. It was magical to see and hear you all, admire your courage and expertise. From my gather’s ham-radio shack I’d follow the Gemini programme, any transmissions we could track, take notes and then carry on with support to aviation search and rescue services. I carried on into aviation inspired by your achievements. My thoughts and prayers to you, Collins and Neil, and to the Armstrong family.
Paul Franklin
Posted at 15:08h, 27 AugustThank you sir, for sharing your kind words and memories. And what a wonderful picture to have to remember your friend with. I hope that when you look at it that it always reminds you of the time you both shared together, not just on that ultimate of road trips.
Yegor
Posted at 14:54h, 27 AugustNeil, Buzz, Mike, thank you for what you did!
Neil was a hero and humble man and it is not coincidence that he had the honor to be the first to walk on the moon.
It is the end of special era! We can see it clearly now – the era we live in right now is very different 🙁 The people are different now. It was the time of heroes – now is the time of egoists. In your achievement you were at least 50 years ahead of time – no one was able to walk on the moon ever since those flights.
Kevan Brown
Posted at 14:53h, 27 AugustI can not begin to say how much his modesty and courage that both of you displayed making your impact on our world by ironically stepping on another, has influenced me in my life. I have tried to utilize both of you as examples to my son as what it means to contribute, inspire, hope, dream, and just plain “go for it” Thank you for everything, even sticking up for what you and I believe the direction of our space program should be going, unfortunately not where it is.
Clark C. McClelland, ScO STS
Posted at 14:51h, 27 AugustHi again, Buzz you may recall, I combined with Mike Collins to design the Apollo 11 Bald Eagle patch for the historic mission. I passed them to all of you through Lola Morrow. I am still VERY PROUD of it.
Yes, I wish all three of you had reached 2019 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Apollo 11. Buzz, I admire you for staying in touch with the public over the years. That guy you socked deserved it, SIR. Clark
David Perham
Posted at 14:27h, 27 AugustThe passing of Neil Armstrong is a momentous occasion in our history. The first man to set foot on another world and despite the greatness of all the men and women who have followed he was the first, the prototype in a way and no one else can claim that, the first!….quite an epitaph to the first of a line of greats.
Joseph Roberts
Posted at 14:25h, 27 AugustI was five years old when Apollo 11 landed, and I watched the TV broadcast with my father on someone’s tiny black and white TV. Those grainy images inspired me to pursue my interests in aviation and spaceflight.
Dave Lyman
Posted at 13:21h, 27 AugustVery nice tribute Mr. Aldrin. All of you from the Mercury, Gemini and Apollo programs had, and still have “The Right Stuff”. RIP Neil Armstrong
Stephen Foster
Posted at 13:15h, 27 AugustMr Aldrin, yourself, Mr Armstrongs and Mr Collins are all true international heroes of our time. Your collective humility and can-do attitude inspired millions and for this we can only thank you all most sincerely. May Neil rest in peace amongst the stars. He may be gone, but will never be forgotten
Paul Lowe
Posted at 13:05h, 27 AugustAs a 5 year old boy in the UK , my father dragged be to a grainy black and white TV to watch this amazing event which in sheer quest has never been beaten. This only happens once ! I am sorry to hear of the Armstrong family loss. RIP Neil
Chris Adams
Posted at 11:12h, 27 AugustAll of you are our heroes, Buzz. My condolances to Neil’s family, and to both you and Mike as well on the passing of your crewmate and friend. All the best.
Paul Ferretti
Posted at 09:54h, 27 AugustDear Buzz,
As a 9 year old boy I watched the Apollo 11 lunar landing and was awestruck by the event. Together the three of you, as well as all of the astronauts before and after you, sparked the imagination of the world. We will all miss Neil, but we will never forget any of you.
melanie
Posted at 09:44h, 27 AugustI wasn’t born when the Apollo made that historic voyage, yet being the year of my birth the spirit of venturing in unknown space, being adventurous and seeing things from a new perspectives is something I believe I share with you. My swiss grandfather gave me a medaillion, which I now will wear as a salut to all of you.
Bill Goodwin
Posted at 09:41h, 27 AugustIt took over four billion years for life to evolve to a point where it could touch another world. You and Neil were the fingertips of the Earth on that day. I’ve been grieving the loss of my dear friend Ray Bradbury, and now that Armstrong has passed also, I begin to feel as though the hatchway of the 20th century were finally closing, leaving us adrift in a cold and uncertain void. But your words and your vision remind me that amazing futures are opening before us. I feel warm. I feel hopeful. Thank you so much for all that you do. Let’s keep this ball rolling, and get humanity to Mars!
Andy summers
Posted at 09:38h, 27 AugustHouston tranquility base here the eagle has landed….
Neil Armstrong
RIP amongst the stars Neil.
ankit
Posted at 09:33h, 27 Augustdeepest condolence to a true legend Neil Armstrong and the entire Armstrong family.he is still the true inspiration for all the scientists around the world. he’ll be in our thoughts for ever and may his steps never fade on the moon.
Harold Dahl
Posted at 09:16h, 27 AugustThanks Buzz for your heartfelt words on this sad occasion and sincerest condolences to the Armstrong family. Neil, you and the other Apollo astronauts are genuine hero’s. Although I was just shy of 4 years old when you and Neil landed on the moon (I was in a campground with my parents when it happened so didn’t have a TV), later reading about all the Apollo missions helped to fuel my interest in space and engineering. This year I am 25 years into a career in aerospace engineering.
Thanks Buzz also for your hard work in advocating continued manned space exploration. We ALL need to work hard to get to Mars and beyond. Neil would want nothing less.
Mohammad
Posted at 08:21h, 27 AugustVery sad! Neil was not just an american man, but he was a true HERO for mankind. God bless him!
josetxo olaiz
Posted at 07:57h, 27 Augustfuisteis los mejores no del momento sino de la historia de la conquista del espacio.Un orgullo haber compartido ese momento desde la distancia y una envidia no haber podido estar alli con vosotros,por supuesto,los mejores astronautas.Un abrazo y un gran recuerdo para Armstrong
Gerard Petrocelli
Posted at 07:27h, 27 AugustI have always held you Astronauts to my highest level of respect. Brains, guts and modesty. To live and work in an environment of constant improvement surrounded by the best and brightest must be a high feeling. I have always wanted to meet Neil but never reached out to go to one of the many space events and now I’m very saddened that this modest incredibly smart, courageous , skilled Astronaut has left us. I always wanted to be looking at the moon with Neil by our side pointing to the section of the moon where he landed and walked and talking about his adventure. It still blows my mind today what you guys did 43 years ago. I was 7 years old in LI, NY. I remember looking at our B+W TV sitting on the living room floor and my mother behind me on the coach and she being constantly amazed on how you guys had such great voice communication. I could go on forever. Thank you Mr. Neil Armstrong for doing everything in such a classy way.
My condolences to your entire family. May GOD bless you and your family.
Francesco
Posted at 06:45h, 27 AugustI became an astrophysicist because of Apollo11. Thank you Neil, Buzz and Michael. Today I feel like my father died.
Bill Leavens
Posted at 06:22h, 27 AugustThank you, Dr. Aldrin, for your words. The exploration of space is one of the very few positive things that humanity is doing. I can only hope that the legacy that you, Neil and Mike established, continues to ignite an unbridled passion for real science and exploration. Godspeed Neil.
Michael Broemmer
Posted at 05:36h, 27 AugustThanks Neil which there has been you. The people of the world will never forget your excellent personality. My condolences, rest in peace.
Ryland Smith
Posted at 05:35h, 27 AugustMy deepest condolences to the friends and primarily the family of Neil Armstrong – a great pioneer and inspiration to millions. A legend who truly ventured where no man had gone before. RIP to a reluctant hero and a great human being.
Upstate NY Al
Posted at 05:31h, 27 AugustGood man, Buzz, Great words, and that photo beings a tear to my eye, what a great shot! You’ve always been a Hero to my father, and therefore myself, and your words here confirm that for me, thank you. But to be fair, so did the words you spoke on 30 rock, and I quote: “Stupid Moon! I walked all over your FACE!”. Thanks again, Buzz, and Neil, we’ll see ya when we make it back up there…
Yuri
Posted at 04:56h, 27 AugustMy name is Yuri. I am from Barnaul (Russia, Siberia, Altai region). I was born right after 4 months later after Your legendary landing on the Moon, Buzz. Since my childhood I’ve always interested in Space exploration. And despite the fact that my country was not the first in the Moon race, I have been proud that it is done by the humans, and such brave and professional guys like Neil and You, Buzz. Our hero Yuri Gagarin died very early. He was the first man entered the Space. Neil and You Buzz were the first men walked on the Moon. And the thought about the fact that somewhere live the persons who are the first, and who set an example for thousands of boys around the world, have always given me the special warmth in my heart.
Neil’s passing is a really great loss not only for Americans, but for the entire World. I (and all Russian people, I think) express my sincere and deep condolences to Neil’s family, to all Americans and to You, Buzz. Please, take care of yourself. You are the citizen of the Earth.
Fiona Stirk
Posted at 04:24h, 27 Augusta very fitting tribute to a true hero the Apollo 11 success will leave a rich legacy for all
Pamela Hammond
Posted at 04:15h, 27 AugustI was only 6yrs. old when I saw the landing of Apollo 11 and Mr. Armstrong took the first step walking and jumping around on the moon. It was such a great and brave act these 3 men did for America for all to see. That I did a bookreport of the Apollo 11 and title it The 3 Bravest Men of USA. I got an A+on my paper. I do believe he is back up there again a place that he loved. We lost a great man that America will not forget what he did for us. All 3 of these men will never be forgotten. You are my heroe’s for given me a chance to write a great story for what u did for us and it was the best show in the world to see happen for that I thank all 3 of you for being strong and brave. I am sure your family is so proud of you and sad to see you go. Your spirit will be watching over them and they will have a lifetime of memories of you to help them get thru this sad loss. My prayers and condolences to a great family with a lot of love for you. May God bless you all.
Arthur Chan
Posted at 03:57h, 27 AugustNicely written Mr Aldrin.
Italo Borges
Posted at 03:46h, 27 AugustYou, Neil and Mike inspired me into studying science and eventually, making it my profession. Well, now there are 4 ex-presidents of USA alive, 2 Beatles and 2 Apollo 11 mission astronauts… Thanks for everything guys. My condolences to you and Mike , and the familes. RIP Neil
From Brazil.
Zvi Merchav
Posted at 03:45h, 27 AugustI remember that day very well.
I was at the time a solidier in the Israeli army. On the same day that Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin were walking on the moon we attacked by Egyptian Migs.
After sunset we started preparing for the next day exchange of fire accross the Suez Canal . I looked at the moon and said to myself that the Appolo astronouts on the moon are more secure than we are on earth.
All the astronauts are true heros and I was very saddened to hear of Neil Armstrong’s death.
Erick Herlitz
Posted at 03:22h, 27 AugustLa gran aventura de la humanidad resumida en un pequeño gran paso. Gracias, héroes de la Luna, de niño soñé con aquel, vuestro viaje legendario. Neil ha emprendido un nuevo camino hacia el Cosmos, y triste nos deja en la Tierra con su partida, pero su legado, el de sus compañeros y el de aquellos hombres que aventuran la estrellas, seguirá viviendo en nuestros infantes corazones, hasta el fin de la era del hombre. Hasta siempre, Neil Armstrong.