John Glenn, Legendary Aviation Hero & American Icon, Has Died at 95

John Glenn, the American hero, aviation legend and former Senator, has passed away at 95.

John Glenn lived a storied, and adventurous life—one that nearly reads like a book. On February 20th, Glenn became the first American to orbit the Earth and the fifth person ever to enter space.

Prior to his death, he was the last surviving member of the Mercury Seven, the team of test pilots selecting 1959 by NASA to fly the Project Mercury spacecraft. Mayor Andrew Ginther released a statement Glenn’s passing:

“The way John Glenn lived his life and served his country let everyone know that anyone from any walk of life deserved the same dignity and respect. My grandmother, Nellie McMullen, worked at BF Goodrich in Akron and was one of the inspectors for the first space suit astronaut John Glenn wore during his historic orbital flight in 1962. With barely a ninth-grade education, this woman from humble beginnings  told me that Mr. Glenn treated her with the same respect as presidents, world leaders and astronauts. I take the lessons he taught by the example of his life to heart every day. I am grateful I had the privilege to have spent such quality time with Sen. Glenn and his family at the dedication of the newly named John Glenn International Airport earlier this year in Columbus.  My heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with dear Mrs. Glenn and all who loved him.  Godspeed, Sen. Glenn.”

A memorial service will be at OSU’s Mershon Auditorium and afterwards he’ll be buried at Arlington National Cemetery in a private service. The dates and times will be announced in the coming days.

For more details on his life, his accomplishments and his legacy click here to read more.

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