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20th Anniversary of the Moon Landing 7/20/89 [2]
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20th Anniversary of the Moon Landing 7/20/89 [2]
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Records of the White House Office of Speechwriting (George H. W. Bush Administration)
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Originally Processed With FOIA(s):
FOIA Number:
S; 1999-0093-F
FOIA
MARKER
This is not a textual record. This is used as an
administrative marker by the George Bush Presidential
Library Staff.
Record Group/Collection:
George H.W. Bush Presidential Records
Collection/Office of Origin:
Speechwriting, White House Office of
Series:
Speech File Draft Files
Subseries:
Chron File, 1989-1993
OA/ID Number:
13496
Folder ID Number:
13496-004
Folder Title:
20th Anniversary of the Moon Landing 7/20/89 [2]
Stack:
Row:
Section:
Shelf:
Position:
G
25
6
4
2
TIL 19 '89 11:13 ASTRONAUTS
P.1
JUL 19 '89 11:14 ASTRONAUTS
P.2
A COMMITMENT TO THE NATION ON SPACE
We believe Space is the key to a better educated, more competitive America and
benefits all of humanity. Therefore, we the undersigned, representing a
united Space Community, support an aggressive Space Program
and agree to work publicly and privately together to ensure
this end. To do otherwise is to default on this nation's
heroic Aviation and Space Heritage.
Hereby signed this twentieth day of July,
nineteen hundred and eighty-nine.
Mr. Richard P. MacLeod
Mr. Benjamin J. Everidge
Dr. Chris Shove
Mr. Charles D. Walker
President
President/CEO
Vice President
President
United States Space Foundation
The Astronauts Memorial
Space Research Foundation
National Space Society
Foundation
Mr. T. Wendell Burler
Mr. Ed Buckbee
Mr. Dennis Stone
Mr. Douglas R. King
Executive Director
Director
President
President
Young Astronaut Council
The Space & Rocket Center
Spaceweek, Nari Headquarters
Challenger Ceriser for
United States Space Camp
Space Science Education
Mr. Mark Hopkins
Mr. E. Larry Heacock
Mr. Joe Allen
Mr. Robert L. Sraehle
President
President
Chairman
President
Spacecause
American Astronautical Society
The Space Foundation/
World Space Foundation
Space Business Roundtables
Mr. Gerard K. O'Neill
Mr. Rick Norman Tumlinson
The Honorable
Ms. Margaret Roberts
President
President
Gilbert A. Robinson
President
Space Studies Institute
Space Frontier Foundation
President
Women in Aerospace
Willard F. Rockwell, Jr.
Space Foundation
Mr. Gayle May
Mr. Scott Pace
Mr. Will Reynolds
President
Executive Director
President
U.S. Foundation for the
Spacepac
Space Community
Inil Space University
Foundation
DATE: July 20, 1989
FOR RELEASE: Immediately
CONTACT:
U.S. SPACE GROUPS UNITE ON APOLLO 11 ANNIVERSARY;
ISSUE COMMITMENT TO THE NATION ON SPACE
Washington, July 20 -- Major space groups from around the United
States today said they would like to see a more aggressive National
Space Program and pledged to the nation to work publicly and privately
together toward this goal.
On the 20th Anniversary of America's First Moon Landing, the space
groups' action provided a vivid demonstration of President Bush's
"thousand points of light" philosophy for volunteer support of worthy
non-profit causes. Representing Americans from all walks of life who
voluntarily work for the advancement of space, science and education,
the groups asserted, "We believe space is the key to a better-educated,
more competitive America and benefits all humanity."
The twenty-one space groups who pledged their support include the
United States Space Foundation, the National Space Society, the
International Space University and The Astronauts Memorial Foundation.
"Therefore, we the undersigned, representing a united Space Community,
support an aggressive Space Program and agree to work publicly and
privately together to ensure this end, they $aid.
"To do otherwise is to default on this nation's heroic aviation and
Space heritage," their statement concluded.
Spokesmen for the groups said their Commitment To The Nation on Space
grew out of discussions held earlier this year at the U.S. Space
Foundation's Fifth National Space Symposium and the National Space
Society's annual meeting. Group representatives are gathering today in
Houston to demonstrate support for the 20th Anniversary Celebration of
the first moon landing.
"During each of our meetings, it became quite evident to all that there
is a strong and vital need to facilitate a much greater dialogue on
Space in the United States," explained the spokesmen.
"our nation's technological and economic preeminence, and its national
security -- and particularly our ability to compete and advance further
the known and unknown scientific and technological frontiers -- depend
greatly on such dialogue," said the spokesmen.
-MORE-
Space Groups Unite
Page Two
"Yet, the United States has been dangerously on the verge of
'floundering in the backwash' of the world's Space Movement because we
have had for too long a time no clear direction, as to where this
nation should be going in the next several decades with its Space-
related programs.
"Until today the problem has remained as it was in 1985 when the
National Commission on Space warned in its 1985 report, Pioneering The
Space Frontier, that this nation has not sustained the momentum of its
earlier space efforts," they said.
"An aggressive space program in the United States, therefore, will be
essential if we are again to assert and demonstrate America's
traditional leadership in Space and thus protect and ensure not only
our children's future, but the future of America.
"As the national Commission on Space so aptly noted in its report, 'A
citizenry able to understand and appreciate our nation's Space Program
is a key ingredient to the future of the program.' More importantly,
we believe the Space Program is vital to the future of this country and
all of humanity.
"For this reason, we have agreed to work together, both publicly and
privately, to show that there is in fact a strong community of interest
on Space.
"And by working with the public, the Congress, and the White House--
while at the same time keeping in mind the other needs and interests of
the Federal Government -- we hope to create both the dialogue and
renewed momentum to help move this nation constructively and proudly
into the 21st Century.
"This is our commitment to the nation on Space."
Those signing the commitment include: Richard MacLeod, President,
United States Space Foundation; Benjamin Everidge, President/CEO, The
Astronauts Memorial Foundation; Dr. Chris Shove, Vice President,
Florida Space Research Foundation; Charles Walker, President, National
Space Society; T. Wendell Butler, Executive Director, Young Astronauts
Council; Edward Buckbee, Director, The Space and Rocket Center, United
States Space Camp; Dennis Stone, President, Spaceweek - National
Headquarters; Douglas King, President, Challenger Center for Space
Science Education; Mark Hopkins, President, Spacecause; E. Larry
Heacock, President, American Astronautical Society; Joe Allen,
Chairman, The Space Foundation/Space Business Roundtables; Robert L.
Staehle, President, World Space Foundation; Gerald K. O'Neil,
President, Space Studies Institute; Rick Norman Tumlinson, President,
Space Frontier Foundation; The Honorable Gilbert A. Robinson,
President, Willard F. Rockwell, Jr. Space Foundation; Margaret Roberts,
President, Women in Aerospace; Gayle May, President, U.S. Foundation
for the International Space University; Scott Pace, Executive Director,
Spacepac: and will Reynelds, President, Space Community Foundation.
-30-
E. J. (JAKE) GARN
COMMITTEE
UTAH
APPROPRIATIONS
BANKING, HOUSING, AND
SD 505 DIRKSEN SENATE OFFICE BUILDING
URBAN AFFAIRS
TELEPHONE: 202-224-9444
United States Senate
ENERGY AND NATURAL
RESOURCES
JtFF M. BINGHAM
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
WASHINGTON, DC 20510
RULES AND
ADMINISTRATION
May 23, 1989
Dear Colleague:
This year marks the 20th anniversary of that moment when the
nation and the world watched in awe as Neil Armstrong took that
first "giant leap for mankind" onto the surface of the moon. For
the past several years, we have honored the anniversary of that
historic event by proclaiming July 20 as "Space Exploration
Day." I intend to introduce legislation to declare July 20, 1989
as "Space Exploration Day". as well as July 20, 1990, as the
same.
Our spirit of exploration has a long tradition It moved our
ancestors to settle in the new country and, later, called them
westward to expand our frontiers. It was that same spirit which
inspired those brave men of Apollo 11 to step beyond the realm of
the known to land on and explore the lunar surface. The
pioneering work of the U.S. in the area of space exploration
continues to be awe-inspiring and demands our attention.
We, as a nation, need to revitalize our vision of the limitless
possibilities which space offers. We must rekindle our desire to
explore our universe and recognize that the benefits to be gained
from expanding our space exploration efforts far outweigh the
investments we must initially make. As we contemplate our vision
for the future of space exploration, we must also keep in mind
the dreams of the next generation and the new worlds they will
explore. Let us focus on the next "giant leap for mankind."
While this resolution commemorates the achievaments of the past
it also serves to represent our hopes and dreams for the future.
I hope you will join me in this effort to pay tribute to the
adventurous spirit and inquiring mind of the American people.
Please contact Michele Maddox of my staff (X 4-1347) if you wish
to cosponsor the resolution to establish a "Space Exploration
Day" for 1989 and 1990. I have attached a copy of the bill for
your review.
Sincerely,
Jake Sake Garn
Larry
JG/mm
Enclosure
101ST CONGRESS
1ST SESSION
S.J.RES.
174
IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES
Mr.
GARN (for himself and others see attached list)
introduced the following joint resolution; which was read twice and referred to the Committee
on
JOINT RESOLUTION
To designate July 20, 1989 as "Space Exploration Day".
(Zasers title of joint resolution here)
Whereas twenty years ago, on July 20, 1969, people of the world
were brought closer together by the first manned exploration
of the moon;
Whereas a purpose of the United States space program is the
peaceful exploration of space for the benefit of all mankind;
Whereas the United States space program has provided scientific
and technological benefits affecting many areas of concern to
mankind;
Whercas the United States space program, through project Apollo,
Viking and Voyager missions to the planets, the space shuttle,
and other space efforts, has provided the Nation with scientific.
and technological leadership in space;
Whereas the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, the
United States aerospace industry, and educational institutions
throughout the Nation contribute research and develonment to
the Untied States space program, and to the strength of the
economy of the Nation;
Whereas the space program reflects technological skill of the
highest order and the best in the American character -- sacrafice,
ingenuity and the unrolenting spirit of adventure;
Whereas the spirit that out man on the moon mav be applied to
all noble pursuits involving peace, brotherhood, courage,
unity of the human cnirit and the of
unity of the human spirit, and the exploration of new frontiers;
and,
Whereas the human race will continue to explore space for the
benefit of future generations: Now, therefore, be it
1
Resolved by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the
2
United States of America in Congress assembled.
3
That July 20, 1989 is designated as "Space Exploration Dav".
4
The President is authorized and requested to issue a proclamation
5
calling upon the neoble of the United Stated to observe the day
6
with appropriate programs, ceremonies and activities.
Y
POSSIBLE remarks
FOR PRESIOGNT:RE
DRAFT
LUQUEZURS uniun areds,
President Bush - -
For use either in Air and Space Museum address or 50 the Astronauts and
other Space leaders at the White House Barbecue July 20, 1989:
I'm particularly gratified that the major Space advocacy organizations,
representing thousands of volunteers throughout the country, today
announced agreement to work together to support an aggressive National
Space Program.
In "A Commitment to the Nation on Space" these organizations recognized,
that the pride and excitement Americans feel for Astronauts and the Space
program can boost education by stimulating student achievement, improve our
economic competitiveness with commercial application of Space technologies
and add to the thousands the of benefits already realized for people throughout
frontiee
the world by pushing technological advances.
^
719-550-1000 -
Posson 5147
W.HOUSE HAVES Re: Helen
DRAFT
President Bush
At the White House Barbecue July 20, 1989
Consider introducing "America's Leading Lady", Helen Hayes.
All of you here have had important roles in the development of the U.S.
Space Program. But to demonstrate that many prominent Americans BOC
directly involved in our Space efforts also have A strong commitment to
Space achievement, I want to recognize "America's Leading Lady", Helen
Hayas.
Helen contributed her time and talent to the public service Ad. series
developed by Doug Morrow for the U.S. Space Foundation. Many of you have
seen these Ad. Council spots that highlight how Space technology benefits
all of Humanity.
This series, "Space Technology - This 18 What's in it for You" is another
great example of volunteer support that is absolutely essential to social,
economic, and technological advancement in this country. Thanks, Helen for
emphasizing the benefits we enjoy as a result of America's Space technology
advancements.
(McNally/Simon)
July 15, 1989 1:00 p.m.
Draft Two (APOLLO)
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: 20TH ANNIVERSARY OF APOLLO MOON LANDING
THE STEPS OF THE AIR AND SPACE MUSEUM
WASHINGTON, D.C.
THURSDAY, JULY 20, 1989, 10:00 A.M.
Thank you, Mr. Vice President, for your introduction and for
your skillful new leadership on the National Space Council.
And thanks to all of you, who have braved the crowds and
heat to join us today. Behind me stands one of the most visited
places on Earth -- a temple to American courage and ingenuity.
And before me stand those on whose shoulders this legacy was
built -- the men and women of the United States astronauts corps.
We hope that neither the motorcade nor the metal detectors
caused too much delay. In the future, I'll just signal the Vice
President and say: "Dan -- Beam me up."
We are very proud to be part of this unprecedented gathering
of America's space veterans -- and to share this stage with three
of the greatest heroes of this or any other century -- the crew
of Apollo 11.
It's hard to believe 20 years have passed. Neil and Buzz --
the originators of the moonwalk.
And we also honor Michael Collins -- former director of this
amazing museum -- and the brave pilot who flew alone on the dark
side of the Moon, while Neil and Buzz touched down. Mike -- you
must be the only American over age 10 that night who didn't get
to see the Moon landing.
- 2 -
Later this evening, after the crowd disperses and the sun
goes down, a nearly full Moon will rise out of the ocean to the
east and shine down on an America that is prosperous and secure.
For those old enough to remember that historic night -- step
outside tonight with your children or grandchildren. Lift your
eyes skyward, and tell them of the flag that still flies proudly
in the ancient soil of Tranquility Base.
And for those who were not yet born, or then too young to
recall -- you who are the children of the new century -- raise
your eyes to the heavens and join us in a great dream -- an
American dream -- a dream without end.
Project Apollo. The first men on the Moon. They called it
quixotic. Impossible. It had never been done. But America
dreamed it. And America did it.
It began on the morning of July 16, 1969. The sun rose a
second time as the awesome fireball of the Saturn Five lifted
these three pioneers beyond the clouds. A crowd of one million -
- including half the U.S. Congress -- watched live as the Earth
shook beneath their feet -- and our view of the heavens was
changed for all time.
Three days and three nights they journeyed. It was a
perilous, unlikely, breathtaking voyage.
Each of us remember the night.
Barbara and Doro were with me in our white frame house on
the outskirts of Washington, where we had moved to represent
Houston in Congress. Twelve-year-old Marvin was on a trip out
- 3 -
West with family friends, and remembers stopping at a roadside
motel to watch. Jeb was just 16 that summer, teaching English
and listening by radio in a small Mexican village, where
electricity had yet to arrive.
The landing itself was harrowing. Alarms flashed -- and a
computer overload threatened to halt the mission while Eagle
dangled thousands of feet above the Moon. Armstrong seized
manual control to avoid a huge crater strewn with boulders. With
new alarms signalling a loss of fuel -- and the view now blocked
by lunar dust -- Mission Control began the countdown for a
mandatory abort.
America listened with a lump in our throat and a prayer on
our lips. Only 17 seconds of fuel remained. And then out of the
static came the words: [[PAUSE]] "Tranquility Base here. The
Eagle has landed." [[PAUSE]]
Within one lifetime, humankind had traveled from the dunes
of Kitty Hawk to the dust of another world. Apollo is a
testament to our Nation's unparalleled ability to respond swiftly
and successfully to a clearly stated challenge -- and to
America's willingness to take great risks for great rewards.
We had a challenge. We set a goal. And we achieved it.
And it reminds us that -- not only is this an occasion to
thank our astronauts for their courage and skill -- we also thank
the American people for their faith -- the drive and daring of an
entire nation committed to a dream.
In the building behind me are the testaments to Apollo and
- 4 -
to what came before -- the chariots of fire flown by Armstrong,
Yeager, Lindbergh, and the Wrights. And across this great
expanse of grass are preserved the founding documents of the idea
that made it all possible -- the world's greatest experiment in
freedom and diversity.
And standing here between these twin legacies, it is a
fitting place to look forward to the future.
Because the Apollo astronauts left more than flags and
footprints on the Moon. They also left some unfinished business.
For even 20 years ago, we recognized that America's ultimate goal
was not simply to go there and go back -- but to go there and go
on.
Mike Collins said it best: "The Moon is not a destination -
- it's a direction."
Space is the inescapable challenge to all the advanced
nations of the Earth. And there is little question that, in the
21st Century, humans will again leave their home planet for
voyages of discovery and exploration. What was once improbable,
is now inevitable.
The time has come to look beyond brief encounters. We must
commit ourselves anew to a sustained program of manned
exploration of the solar system -- and yes -- the permanent
settlement of space.
Today the U.S. is the richest nation on Earth -- with the
most powerful economy in the world. And our goal is nothing less
than to establish the United States as a permanent, spacefaring
- 5 -
nation.
From the voyages of Columbus -- to the purchase of Alaska --
to the journey to the Moon itself -- history proves that we have
never lost by pressing the limits of our frontiers.
Indeed -- it is now estimated that -- for every dollar
invested in the Moon program -- Apollo returned seven to eight
dollars in benefits to our economy.
In 1961, it took a crisis -- the space race -- to speed
things up. Today we don't have a crisis. We just have an
opportunity.
[To do this, I don't have a 10-year plan like Apollo. I
have three of them.
First, for the coming decade -- for the 1990's -- Space
Station Freedom -- the critical next step in all our space
endeavors.
Then, for the new century -- for the first decade -- back to
the Moon. Back to the future. And this time -- back to stay.
And third -- for the second decade of the new millennium --
a journey into tomorrow, a journey to another world -- a manned
mission to Mars.]
Each mission will lay the groundwork for the next. And the
pathway to the stars begins with you -- the American people. And
it continues just up the street there -- to the American Congress
-- where the future of the space station -- and our future as a
spacefaring nation -- will be decided.
Yes, we are at a crossroads. Hard decisions must be made
- 6 -
now as we prepare to enter the next century.
As William Jennings Bryan said -- just before the last turn
of the century: "Destiny is not a matter of chance -- it is a
matter of choice. It is not a thing to be waited for -- it is a
thing to be achieved."
To those who may shirk from the challenges ahead -- or who
doubt our chances of success -- let me say this:
To this day, the only footprints on the Moon are American
footprints. The only flag on the Moon is the American flag. And
the know-how that accomplished these feats is American know-how.
What Americans can dream -- Americans can do.
[And 10 years from now -- on the 30th anniversary of this
extraordinary and astonishing flight -- the way to honor the
Apollo astronauts is not by calling them back to Washington for
another round of speeches. It is to have Space Station Freedom
up there, operational, and underway -- a new bridge between
worlds -- and an investment in the growth, prosperity and
security of our Nation.
The space station is a first and necessary step for
sustained manned exploration -- one that we're pleased has been
endorsed by Senator Glenn, and Neil Armstrong, and so many of the
veteran astronauts we honor today. But it is only a first step.
Today I am asking Vice President Quayle to lead the National
Space Council in considering what's needed for the next round of
exploration -- the necessary money, manpower and material -- the
possibility of dramatic international cooperation -- and
- 7 -
realistic timetables and steps along the way. The Space Council
will report back to me as soon as possible with concrete
recommendations -- a roadmap for the year 2000 --- charting a new
and continuing course to the Moon and Mars and beyond.]
There are at least 10 reasons why America must never stop
seeking distant frontiers -- the 10 courageous astronauts who
made the ultimate sacrifice to further the cause of space
exploration. They have taken their place in the heavens -- so
that America can take its place in the stars.
Like them, and like Columbus, we dream of distant shores
we've not yet seen.
[Why the Moon? Why Mars?] Because it is humanity's destiny
"to strive, to seek, to find II And because it is America's
destiny to lead.
Six years ago, Pioneer 10 sailed beyond the orbit of Pluto -
- the first man-made object to leave the solar system. Its
destination unknown. It has now journeyed through the tenures of
five Presidents -- four billion miles from Earth.
In the decades ahead, we will follow the path of Pioneer 10.
It will not happen in my lifetime, and probably not during the
lives of my children. But a dream to be realized by future
generations must begin with this generation. We cannot take the
next giant leap for mankind tomorrow -- unless we start with a
single step today.
To all of you here -- and especially the astronauts -- we
wish you good luck in your quests, wherever they may take you.
- 8 -
Godspeed you, one and all. And God bless the United States.
# # #
REMARKS: 20TH ANNIVERSARY OF APOLLO MOON LANDING
THE STEPS OF THE AIR AND SPACE MUSEUM
WASHINGTON, D.C.
THURSDAY, JULY 20, 1989, 10:30 A.M.
THANK YOU, MR. VICE PRESIDENT, FOR YOUR
INTRODUCTION AND FOR YOUR SKILLFUL LEADERSHIP OF THE
NATIONAL SPACE COUNCIL.
AND THANKS TO ALL OF YOU WHO HAVE BRAVED THE
WEATHER TO JOIN US TODAY. BEHIND ME STANDS ONE OF THE
MOST VISITED PLACES ON EARTH -- A SYMBOL OF AMERICAN
COURAGE AND INGENUITY.
- 2 -
AND BEFORE ME STAND THOSE ON WHOSE SHOULDERS THIS
LEGACY WAS BUILT -- THE MEN AND WOMEN OF THE UNITED
STATES ASTRONAUTS CORPS.
WE ARE VERY PROUD TO BE PART OF THIS UNPRECEDENTED
GATHERING OF AMERICA'S SPACE VETERANS -- AND To SHARE
THIS STAGE WITH THREE OF THE GREATEST HEROES OF THIS OR
ANY OTHER CENTURY -- THE CREW OF APOLLO 11.
- 3 -
IT'S HARD TO BELIEVE 20 YEARS HAVE PASSED. NEIL
AND Buzz --WHO ORIGINATED THE MOONWALK 15 YEARS BEFORE
MICHAEL JACKSON EVER THOUGHT OF IT.
AND MICHAEL COLLINS -- FORMER DIRECTOR OF THIS
AMAZING MUSEUM -- AND THE BRAVE PILOT WHO FLEW ALONE ON
THE DARK SIDE OF THE MOON, WHILE NEIL AND Buzz TOUCHED
DOWN. MIKE -- YOU MUST BE THE ONLY AMERICAN OVER AGE
10 THAT NIGHT WHO DIDN'T GET TO SEE THE MOON LANDING.
- 4 -
LATER THIS EVENING, AFTER THE CROWD DISPERSES AND
THE SUN GOES DOWN, A NEARLY FULL MOON WILL RISE OUT OF
THE DARKNESS AND SHINE DOWN ON AN AMERICA THAT IS
PROSPEROUS AND AT PEACE. FOR THOSE OLD ENOUGH To
REMEMBER THAT HISTORIC NIGHT 20 YEARS AGO
-- STEP OUTSIDE TONIGHT WITH YOUR CHILDREN OR
GRANDCHILDREN. LIFT YOUR EYES SKYWARD, AND TELL THEM
OF THE FLAG -- THE AMERICAN FLAG -- THAT STILL FLIES
PROUDLY IN THE ANCIENT LUNAR SOIL.
- 5 -
AND FOR THOSE WHO WERE NOT YET BORN, OR THEN TOO
YOUNG TO RECALL -- YOU WHO ARE THE CHILDREN OF THE NEW
CENTURY -- RAISE YOUR EYES TO THE HEAVENS AND JOIN US
IN A GREAT DREAM -- AN AMERICAN DREAM -- A DREAM
WITHOUT END.
PROJECT APOLLO. THE FIRST MEN ON THE MOON. SOME
CALLED IT QUIXOTIC. IMPOSSIBLE. IT HAD NEVER BEEN
DONE. BUT AMERICA DREAMED IT. AND AMERICA DID IT.
- 6 -
IT BEGAN ON JULY 16, 1969. THE SUN ROSE A SECOND
TIME THAT MORNING AS THE AWESOME FIREBALL OF THE SATURN
FIVE LIFTED THESE THREE PIONEERS BEYOND THE CLOUDS. A
CROWD OF ONE MILLION -- INCLUDING HALF THE UNITED
STATES CONGRESS -- HELD ITS BREATH AS THE EARTH SHOOK
BENEATH THEIR FEET -- AND OUR VIEW OF THE HEAVENS WAS
CHANGED FOR ALL TIME.
THREE DAYS AND THREE NIGHTS THEY JOURNEYED. IT WAS
A PERILOUS, UNPRECEDENTED, BREATHTAKING VOYAGE.
- 7 -
EACH OF US REMEMBER THE NIGHT.
BARBARA AND DORO WERE WITH ME IN OUR RED BRICK
HOUSE ON THE OUTSKIRTS OF WASHINGTON, WHERE WE HAD
MOVED TO REPRESENT HOUSTON IN CONGRESS. TWELVE-YEAR-
OLD MARVIN WAS ON A TRIP OUT WEST WITH FAMILY FRIENDS,
AND REMEMBERS STOPPING AT A ROADSIDE MOTEL TO WATCH.
JEB WAS JUST 16 THAT SUMMER, TEACHING ENGLISH AND
LISTENING BY RADIO IN A SMALL MEXICAN VILLAGE, WHERE
ELECTRICITY HAD YET TO ARRIVE.
- 8 -
THE LANDING ITSELF WAS HARROWING. ALARMS FLASHED -
- AND A COMPUTER OVERLOAD THREATENED To HALT THE
MISSION WHILE EAGLE DANGLED THOUSANDS OF FEET ABOVE THE
MOON. ARMSTRONG SEIZED MANUAL CONTROL TO AVOID A HUGE
CRATER STREWN WITH BOULDERS. WITH NEW ALARMS
SIGNALLING A LOSS OF FUEL -- AND THE VIEW NOW BLOCKED
BY LUNAR DUST -- MISSION CONTROL BEGAN THE COUNTDOWN
FOR A MANDATORY ABORT.
- 9 -
AMERICA -- INDEED THE WHOLE WORLD -- LISTENED WITH
A LUMP IN OUR THROAT AND A PRAYER ON OUR LIPS. ONLY 20
SECONDS OF FUEL REMAINED. AND THEN OUT OF THE STATIC
CAME THE WORDS: [[PAUSE]] "HOUSTON. TRANQUILITY BASE
HERE. THE EAGLE HAS LANDED." [[PAUSE]]
- 10 -
WITHIN ONE LIFETIME, THE HUMAN RACE HAD TRAVELED
FROM THE DUNES OF KITTY HAWK TO THE DUST OF ANOTHER
WORLD. APOLLO IS A MONUMENT TO OUR NATION'S
UNPARALLELED ABILITY TO RESPOND SWIFTLY AND
SUCCESSFULLY TO A CLEARLY STATED CHALLENGE -- AND To
AMERICA'S WILLINGNESS TO TAKE GREAT RISKS FOR GREAT
REWARDS.
WE HAD A CHALLENGE. WE SET A GOAL. AND WE
ACHIEVED IT.
- 11 -
So TODAY IS NOT ONLY AN OCCASION TO THANK THESE
ASTRONAUTS AND THEIR COLLEAGUES -- THE THOUSANDS OF
TALENTED MEN AND WOMEN ACROSS THE COUNTRY WHOSE
COMMITMENT, CREATIVITY, AND COURAGE BROUGHT THIS DREAM
TO LIFE. IT IS ALSO A TIME TO THANK THE AMERICAN
PEOPLE FOR THEIR FAITH -- BECAUSE APOLLO'S SUCCESS WAS
MADE POSSIBLE BY THE DRIVE AND DARING OF AN ENTIRE
NATION COMMITTED TO A DREAM.
- 12 -
IN THE BUILDING BEHIND ME ARE THE TESTAMENTS TO
APOLLO AND TO WHAT CAME BEFORE -- THE CHARIOTS OF FIRE
FLOWN BY ARMSTRONG, YEAGER, LINDBERGH, AND THE WRIGHTS.
AND IN THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES -- ACROSS THIS GREAT
EXPANSE OF GRASS -- ARE PRESERVED THE FOUNDING
DOCUMENTS OF THE IDEA THAT MADE IT ALL POSSIBLE -- THE
WORLD'S GREATEST EXPERIMENT IN FREEDOM AND DIVERSITY.
AND HERE -- STANDING BETWEEN THESE TWIN LEGACIES --
IS A FITTING PLACE TO LOOK FORWARD TO THE FUTURE.
- 13 -
BECAUSE THE APOLLO ASTRONAUTS LEFT MORE THAN FLAGS
AND FOOTPRINTS ON THE MOON. THEY ALSO LEFT SOME
UNFINISHED BUSINESS. FOR EVEN 20 YEARS AGO, WE
RECOGNIZED THAT AMERICA'S ULTIMATE GOAL WAS NOT SIMPLY
TO GO THERE AND GO BACK -- BUT TO GO THERE AND GO ON.
MIKE COLLINS SAID IT BEST: THE MOON IS NOT A
DESTINATION -- IT'S A DIRECTION.
- 14 -
SPACE IS THE INESCAPABLE CHALLENGE TO ALL THE
ADVANCED NATIONS OF THE EARTH. AND THERE IS LITTLE
QUESTION THAT, IN THE 21st CENTURY, HUMANS WILL AGAIN
LEAVE THEIR HOME PLANET FOR VOYAGES OF DISCOVERY AND
EXPLORATION. WHAT WAS ONCE IMPROBABLE, IS NOW
INEVITABLE.
- 15 -
THE TIME HAS COME TO LOOK BEYOND BRIEF ENCOUNTERS.
WE MUST COMMIT OURSELVES ANEW TO A SUSTAINED PROGRAM OF
MANNED EXPLORATION OF THE SOLAR SYSTEM -- AND YES --
THE PERMANENT SETTLEMENT OF SPACE. WE MUST COMMIT
OURSELVES TO A FUTURE WHERE AMERICANS AND CITIZENS OF
ALL NATIONS WILL LIVE AND WORK IN SPACE.
- 16 -
TODAY THE U.S. IS THE RICHEST NATION ON EARTH --
WITH THE MOST POWERFUL ECONOMY IN THE WORLD. AND OUR
GOAL IS NOTHING LESS THAN TO ESTABLISH THE UNITED
STATES AS THE PRE-EMINENT SPACEFARING NATION.
FROM THE VOYAGES OF COLUMBUS -- TO THE OREGON TRAIL
-- TO THE JOURNEY TO THE MOON ITSELF -- HISTORY PROVES
THAT WE HAVE NEVER LOST BY PRESSING THE LIMITS OF OUR
FRONTIERS.
- 17 -
INDEED, EARLIER THIS MONTH, ONE NEWS MAGAZINE
REPORTED THAT APOLLO PAID DOWN-TO-EARTH DIVIDENDS --
DECLARING THAT MAN'S CONQUEST OF THE MOON "WOULD HAVE
BEEN A BARGAIN AT TWICE THE PRICE." THEY CALLED APOLLO
"THE BEST RETURN ON AN INVESTMENT ... SINCE LEONARDO DA
VINCI BOUGHT HIMSELF A SKETCH PAD." [[PAUSE]]
IN 1961, IT TOOK A CRISIS -- THE SPACE RACE -- TO
SPEED THINGS UP. TODAY WE DON'T HAVE A CRISIS. WE
HAVE AN OPPORTUNITY.
- 18 -
To SEIZE THIS OPPORTUNITY, I'M NOT PROPOSING A 10-
YEAR PLAN LIKE APOLLO. I'M PROPOSING A LONG-RANGE,
CONTINUING COMMITMENT.
FIRST, FOR THE COMING DECADE -- FOR THE 1990's --
SPACE STATION FREEDOM -- OUR CRITICAL NEXT STEP IN ALL
OUR SPACE ENDEAVORS,
NEXT -- FOR THE NEW CENTURY -- BACK TO THE MOON.
BACK TO THE FUTURE. AND THIS TIME -- BACK TO STAY.
- 19 -
AND THEN -- A JOURNEY INTO TOMORROW -- A JOURNEY TO
ANOTHER PLANET -- A MANNED MISSION TO MARS.
EACH MISSION SHOULD -- AND WILL -- LAY THE
GROUNDWORK FOR THE NEXT. AND THE PATHWAY TO THE STARS
BEGINS, AS IT DID 20 YEARS AGO, WITH YOU -- THE
AMERICAN PEOPLE. AND IT CONTINUES JUST UP THE STREET
THERE -- TO THE AMERICAN CONGRESS -- WHERE THE FUTURE
OF THE SPACE STATION -- AND OUR FUTURE AS A SPACEFARING
NATION -- WILL BE DECIDED.
- 20 -
YES, WE ARE AT A CROSSROADS. HARD DECISIONS MUST
BE MADE NOW AS WE PREPARE TO ENTER THE NEXT CENTURY.
As WILLIAM JENNINGS BRYAN SAID -- JUST BEFORE THE
LAST TURN OF THE CENTURY: "DESTINY IS NOT A MATTER OF
CHANCE -- IT IS A MATTER OF CHOICE. IT IS NOT A THING
TO BE WAITED FOR -- IT IS A THING To BE ACHIEVED."
To THOSE WHO MAY SHIRK FROM THE CHALLENGES AHEAD --
OR WHO DOUBT OUR CHANCES OF SUCCESS -- LET ME SAY THIS:
- 21 -
To THIS DAY, THE ONLY FOOTPRINTS ON THE MOON ARE
AMERICAN FOOTPRINTS. THE ONLY FLAG ON THE MOON IS THE
AMERICAN FLAG. AND THE KNOW-HOW THAT ACCOMPLISHED
THESE FEATS IS AMERICAN KNOW-HOW. WHAT AMERICANS CAN
DREAM -- AMERICANS CAN DO.
AND 10 YEARS FROM NOW -- ON THE 30TH ANNIVERSARY OF
THIS EXTRAORDINARY AND ASTONISHING FLIGHT -- THE WAY TO
HONOR THE APOLLO ASTRONAUTS IS NOT BY CALLING THEM BACK
TO WASHINGTON FOR ANOTHER ROUND OF SPEECHES.
- 22 -
IT IS TO HAVE SPACE STATION FREEDOM UP THERE,
OPERATIONAL, AND UNDERWAY -- A NEW BRIDGE BETWEEN
WORLDS -- AND AN INVESTMENT IN THE GROWTH, PROSPERITY
AND TECHNOLOGICAL SUPERIORITY OF OUR NATION.
AND THE SPACE STATION WILL ALSO SERVE AS A STEPPING
STONE TO THE MOST IMPORTANT PLANET IN THE SOLAR
SYSTEM -- PLANET EARTH.
- 23 -
As I SAID IN EUROPE A FEW DAYS AGO, ENVIRONMENTAL
DESTRUCTION KNOWS NO BORDERS. A MAJOR NATIONAL -- AND
INTERNATIONAL -- INITIATIVE IS NEEDED TO SEEK NEW
SOLUTIONS FOR OZONE DEPLETION, GLOBAL WARMING, AND ACID
RAIN. THIS INITIATIVE -- "MISSION TO PLANET EARTH" --
IS A CRITICAL PART OF OUR SPACE PROGRAM. AND IT
REMINDS US OF WHAT THE ASTRONAUTS REMEMBER AS THE MOST
STIRRING SIGHT OF ALL. IT WASN'T THE MOON OR THE
STARS.
- 24 -
IT WAS THE EARTH -- TINY, FRAGILE, PRECIOUS, A BLUE ORB
-- RISING ABOVE THE ARID DESERT OF TRANQUILITY BASE.
THE SPACE STATION IS A FIRST AND NECESSARY STEP FOR
SUSTAINED MANNED EXPLORATION -- ONE THAT WE'RE PLEASED
HAS BEEN ENDORSED BY SENATOR GLENN, AND NEIL ARMSTRONG,
AND so MANY OF THE VETERAN ASTRONAUTS WE HONOR TODAY.
BUT IT IS ONLY A FIRST STEP.
- 25 -
TODAY I AM ASKING VICE PRESIDENT QUAYLE To LEAD THE
NATIONAL SPACE COUNCIL IN DETERMINING SPECIFICALLY
WHAT'S NEEDED FOR THE NEXT ROUND OF EXPLORATION -- THE
NECESSARY MONEY, MANPOWER AND MATERIAL -- THE
FEASIBILITY OF INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION -- AND DEVELOP
REALISTIC TIMETABLES AND MILESTONES ALONG THE WAY. THE
SPACE COUNCIL WILL REPORT BACK To ME AS SOON AS
POSSIBLE WITH CONCRETE RECOMMENDATIONS TO CHART A NEW
AND CONTINUING COURSE TO THE MOON AND MARS AND BEYOND.
- 26 -
THERE ARE MANY REASONS TO EXPLORE THE UNIVERSE, BUT
10 VERY SPECIAL REASONS WHY AMERICA MUST NEVER STOP
SEEKING DISTANT FRONTIERS -- THE 10 COURAGEOUS
ASTRONAUTS WHO MADE THE ULTIMATE SACRIFICE TO FURTHER
THE CAUSE OF SPACE EXPLORATION. THEY HAVE TAKEN THEIR
PLACE IN THE HEAVENS -- so THAT AMERICA CAN TAKE ITS
PLACE IN THE STARS.
LIKE THEM, AND LIKE COLUMBUS, WE DREAM OF DISTANT
SHORES WE'VE NOT YET SEEN.
- 27 -
WHY THE MOON? WHY MARS? BECAUSE IT IS HUMANITY'S
DESTINY "To STRIVE, TO SEEK, TO FIND " AND BECAUSE
IT IS AMERICA'S DESTINY TO LEAD.
SIX YEARS AGO, PIONEER 10 SAILED BEYOND THE ORBITS
OF NEPTUNE AND OF PLUTO -- THE FIRST MAN-MADE OBJECT TO
LEAVE THE SOLAR SYSTEM. ITS DESTINATION UNKNOWN. IT
HAS NOW JOURNEYED THROUGH THE TENURES OF FIVE
PRESIDENTS -- FOUR BILLION MILES FROM EARTH.
- 28 -
IN THE DECADES AHEAD, WE WILL FOLLOW THE PATH OF
PIONEER 10. WE WILL TRAVEL TO NEIGHBORING STARS, TO
NEW WORLDS, TO DISCOVER THE UNKNOWN. IT WILL NOT
HAPPEN IN MY LIFETIME, AND PROBABLY NOT DURING THE
LIVES OF MY CHILDREN. BUT A DREAM To BE REALIZED BY
FUTURE GENERATIONS MUST BEGIN WITH THIS GENERATION. WE
CANNOT TAKE THE NEXT GIANT LEAP FOR MANKIND TOMORROW --
UNLESS WE START WITH A SINGLE STEP TODAY. [[PAUSE]]
- 29 -
To ALL OF YOU HERE -- AND ESPECIALLY THE ASTRONAUTS
-- WE WISH YOU GOOD LUCK IN YOUR QUESTS, WHEREVER THEY
MAY TAKE YOU. GODSPEED YOU, ONE AND ALL. AND GOD
BLESS THE UNITED STATES.
###
[TO BE READ AT CONCLUSION OF APOLLO SPEECH]
TODAY -- -- ON THIS HISTORIC ANNIVERSARY, AND WITH THE
PROMISE OF GREAT DAYS AHEAD -- I TAKE GREAT PRIDE IN
SIGNING A PROCLAMATION DECLARING THIS SPACE EXPLORATION
DAY.
(McNally/Simon)
July 19, 1989, 8:30 p.m.
Draft 5 (BBQ)
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: ASTRONAUTS BARBECUE PICNIC
WHITE HOUSE SOUTH LAWN
THURSDAY, JULY 20, 1989, 12:45 P.M.
Thank you, and welcome ---- welcome all of you -- America's
astronauts and spouses, our friends in Congress, NASA officials,
and other honored guests. Welcome back to the White House.
Barbara and I appreciate you joining us for this important
anniversary. Planning the picnic was a little hectic. We
weren't sure whether you preferred your hamburgers grilled or
squeezed out of a tube.
And thanks also for joining us earlier today for the Apollo
commemoration at the Air and Space Museum. From the sound of
things there, it did seem like one or two of you might be
interested in going back to the Moon.
Although for some, maybe that's just because we're a little
older. I hear Alan Shepard wants to go back just so he can
remember what it's like to hit a golf ball more than 200 yards.
Alan was the first man to swing a golf club on the moon.
Talk about a sand trap.
And Alan --- if you do go back -- I'd watch out for the new
chairman of the National Space Council. The Vice President hits
a mean 3-iron.
Like the Vice President, all of you here have had important
roles in supporting the U.S. space program. And that support
comes from many corners. Many of you have seen these wonderful
- 2 -
Ad Council spots that highlight how space technology benefits all
humanity. And I'd like to take a moment to recognize someone
here who has contributed her time and talent to this campaign --
"America's leading lady" -- Helen Hayes.
As you might expect from a former Navy pilot who lived much
of his adult life in Houston -- I, too, am a long-time supporter
of the space program -- and the fine work of the men and women
gathered here. In our Administration's first budget proposal --
the largest single percentage increase is for the space agency.
Thanks to you and your colleagues at NASA, 20 years after
Apollo 11, we still live in a world that is alive with wonder.
Two weeks ago, Voyager Two discovered a new moon around Neptune.
We are still getting acquainted with neighborhoods we didn't even
know about.
On the way back from our own Moon, Buzz Aldrin spoke of the
never-ending wonder of space. "This has been far more than three
men on a voyage to the moon," he said. "This stands as a symbol
of the insatiable curiosity of all mankind to explore the
unknown."
And, I might add, that voyage -- like the efforts that came
before, and the efforts that have come since -- is also a symbol
of all the men and women of unique talent and character who made
it possible -- a tribute to the commitment, ingenuity, and nerve
of tens of thousands of people working all across the Nation.
- 3 -
No one knows better than those assembled here, that Apollo's
missions to the Moon raised more questions than they answered.
My commitment today to forge ahead with a sustained manned
exploration program -- mission by mission -- the space station,
the Moon, Mars and beyond -- is a continuing commitment to ask
new questions, to seek new answers. Both in the heavens -- and
on Earth.
James Michener was right when he told Congress: "There are
moments in history when challenges occur of such a compelling
nature that to miss them is to miss the whole meaning of an
epoch. Space is such a challenge."
Well, today's announcement is our recognition that the
challenge was not merely one that belonged to the 1960's -- it is
one that will occupy Americans for generations to come. And the
American people have led the way on this -- the American people
want us back in space -- and this time -- back in space to stay.
Somewhere out there -- maybe on the Mall today, maybe
listening on a radio somewhere out there -- the Americans who
will first walk on Mars are now only children -- perhaps your
children. And along with our congratulations to all of you -- we
leave you today with the hope of that day, when another President
stands with those pioneers, and echoes the last words spoken to
the departing Apollo 11: "Good luck, and Godspeed."
Thanks for your contributions to the greatness of this
country. God bless you. And "God bless the U.S.A."
# # #
(McNally/Simon)
July 19, 1989 8:05 p.m.
Draft Five (APOLLO)
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: 20TH ANNIVERSARY OF APOLLO MOON LANDING
THE STEPS OF THE AIR AND SPACE MUSEUM
WASHINGTON, D.C.
THURSDAY, JULY 20, 1989, 10:30 A.M.
Thank you, Mr. Vice President, for your introduction and for
your skillful leadership of the National Space Council.
And thanks to all of you, who have braved the crowds and
heat to join us today. Behind me stands one of the most visited
places on Earth -- a symbol of American courage and ingenuity.
And before me stand those on whose shoulders this legacy was
built -- the men and women of the United States astronauts corps.
We are very proud to be part of this unprecedented gathering
of America's space veterans -- and to share this stage with three
of the greatest heroes of this or any other century -- the crew
of Apollo 11.
It's hard to believe 20 years have passed. Neil and Buzz --
who originated the moonwalk 15 years before Michael Jackson ever
thought of it.
And Michael Collins -- former director of this amazing
museum -- and the brave pilot who flew alone on the dark side of
the Moon, while Neil and Buzz touched down. Mike -- you must be
the only American over age 10 that night who didn't get to see
the Moon landing.
Later this evening, after the crowd disperses and the sun
goes down, a nearly full Moon will rise out of the darkness and
- 2 -
shine down on an America that is prosperous and at peace. For
those old enough to remember that historic night 20 years ago
-- step outside tonight with your children or grandchildren.
Lift your eyes skyward, and tell them of the flag -- the American
flag -- that still flies proudly in the ancient lunar soil.
And for those who were not yet born, or then too young to
recall -- you who are the children of the new century -- raise
your eyes to the heavens and join us in a great dream -- an
American dream -- a dream without end.
Project Apollo. The first men on the Moon. Some called it
quixotic. Impossible. It had never been done. But America
dreamed it. And America did it.
It began on July 16, 1969. The sun rose a second time that
morning as the awesome fireball of the Saturn Five lifted these
three pioneers beyond the clouds. A crowd of one million --
including half the United States Congress -- held its breath as
the Earth shook beneath their feet -- and our view of the heavens
was changed for all time.
Three days and three nights they journeyed. It was a
perilous, unprecedented, breathtaking voyage.
Each of us remember the night.
Barbara and Doro were with me in our red brick house on the
outskirts of Washington, where we had moved to represent Houston
in Congress. Twelve-year-old Marvin was on a trip out West with
family friends, and remembers stopping at a roadside motel to
watch. Jeb was just 16 that summer, teaching English and
- 3 -
listening by radio in a small Mexican village, where electricity
had yet to arrive.
The landing itself was harrowing. Alarms flashed -- and a
computer overload threatened to halt the mission while Eagle
dangled thousands of feet above the Moon. Armstrong seized
manual control to avoid a huge crater strewn with boulders. With
new alarms signalling a loss of fuel -- and the view now blocked
by lunar dust -- Mission Control began the countdown for a
mandatory abort.
America -- indeed the whole world -- listened with a lump in
our throat and a prayer on our lips. Only 20 seconds of fuel
remained. And then out of the static came the words: [[PAUSE]
"Houston. Tranquility Base here. The Eagle has landed."
[[PAUSE]
Within one lifetime, the human race had traveled from the
dunes of Kitty Hawk to the dust of another world. Apollo is a
monument to our Nation's unparalleled ability to respond swiftly
and successfully to a clearly stated challenge -- and to
America's willingness to take great risks for great rewards.
We had a challenge. We set a goal. And we achieved it.
So today is not only an occasion to thank these astronauts
and their colleagues -- the thousands of talented men and women
across the country whose commitment, creativity, and courage
brought this dream to life. It is also a time to thank the
American people for their faith -- because Apollo's success was
made possible by the drive and daring of an entire nation
- 4 -
committed to a dream.
In the building behind me are the testaments to Apollo and
to what came before -- the chariots of fire flown by Armstrong,
Yeager, Lindbergh, and the Wrights. And in the National Archives
-- across this great expanse of grass -- are preserved the
founding documents of the idea that made it all possible -- the
world's greatest experiment in freedom and diversity.
And here -- standing between these twin legacies -- is a
fitting place to look forward to the future.
Because the Apollo astronauts left more than flags and
footprints on the Moon. They also left some unfinished business.
For even 20 years ago, we recognized that America's ultimate goal
was not simply to go there and go back -- but to go there and go
on.
Mike Collins said it best: The Moon is not a destination --
it's a direction.
Space is the inescapable challenge to all the advanced
nations of the Earth. And there is little question that, in the
21st Century, humans will again leave their home planet for
voyages of discovery and exploration. What was once improbable,
is now inevitable.
The time has come to look beyond brief encounters. We must
commit ourselves anew to a sustained program of manned
exploration of the solar system -- and yes -- the permanent
settlement of space. We must commit ourselves to a future where
Americans and citizens of all nations will live and work in
- 5 -
space.
Today the U.S. is the richest nation on Earth -- with the
most powerful economy in the world. And our goal is nothing less
than to establish the United States as the pre-eminent
spacefaring nation.
From the voyages of Columbus -- to the Oregon Trail -- to
the journey to the Moon itself -- history proves that we have
never lost by pressing the limits of our frontiers.
Indeed, earlier this month, one news magazine reported that
Apollo paid down-to-earth dividends -- declaring that man's
conquest of the Moon "would have been a bargain at twice the
price.' " They called Apollo "the best return on an investment
since Leonardo da Vinci bought himself a sketch pad. " [[PAUSE]]
In 1961, it took a crisis -- the space race -- to speed
things up. Today we don't have a crisis. We have an
opportunity.
To seize this opportunity, I'm not proposing a 10-year plan
like Apollo. I'm proposing a long-range, continuing commitment.
First, for the coming decade -- for the 1990's -- Space
Station Freedom -- our critical next step in all our space
endeavors.
Next -- for the new century -- back to the Moon. Back to
the future. And this time -- back to stay.
And then -- a journey into tomorrow -- a journey to another
planet -- a manned mission to Mars.
Each mission should -- and will -- lay the groundwork for
- 6 -
the next. And the pathway to the stars begins, as it did 20
years ago, with you -- the American people. And it continues
just up the street there
-- to the American Congress -- where the future of the space
station -- and our future as a spacefaring nation -- will be
decided.
Yes, we are at a crossroads. Hard decisions must be made
now as we prepare to enter the next century.
As William Jennings Bryan said -- just before the last turn
of the century: "Destiny is not a matter of chance -- it is a
matter of choice. It is not a thing to be waited for -- it is a
thing to be achieved."
To those who may shirk from the challenges ahead -- or who
doubt our chances of success -- let me say this:
To this day, the only footprints on the Moon are American
footprints. The only flag on the Moon is the American flag. And
the know-how that accomplished these feats is American know-how.
What Americans can dream -- Americans can do.
And 10 years from now -- on the 30th anniversary of this
extraordinary and astonishing flight -- the way to honor the
Apollo astronauts is not by calling them back to Washington for
another round of speeches. It is to have Space Station Freedom
up there, operational, and underway -- a new bridge between
worlds -- and an investment in the growth, prosperity and
technological superiority of our Nation.
And the space station will also serve as a stepping stone to
- 7 -
the most important planet in the solar system -- Planet Earth.
As I said in Europe a few days ago, environmental
destruction knows no borders. A major national -- and
international -- initiative is needed to seek new solutions for
ozone depletion, global warming, and acid rain. This initiative
-- "Mission to Planet Earth" -- is a critical part of our space
program. And it reminds us of what the astronauts remember as
the most stirring sight of all. It wasn't the Moon or the stars.
It was the Earth -- tiny, fragile, precious, a blue orb -- rising
above the arid desert of Tranquility Base.
The space station is a first and necessary step for
sustained manned exploration -- one that we're pleased has been
endorsed by Senator Glenn, and Neil Armstrong, and so many of the
veteran astronauts we honor today. But it is only a first step.
Today I am asking Vice President Quayle to lead the National
Space Council in determining specifically what's needed for the
next round of exploration -- the necessary money, manpower and
material -- the feasibility of international cooperation -- and
develop realistic timetables and milestones along the way. The
Space Council will report back to me as soon as possible with
concrete recommendations to chart a new and continuing course to
the Moon and Mars and beyond.
There are many reasons to explore the universe, but 10 very
special reasons why America must never stop seeking distant
frontiers -- the 10 courageous astronauts who made the ultimate
sacrifice to further the cause of space exploration. They have
- 8 -
taken their place in the heavens -- so that America can take its
place in the stars.
Like them, and like Columbus, we dream of distant shores
we've not yet seen.
Why the Moon? Why Mars? Because it is humanity's destiny
"to strive, to seek, to find..." And because it is America's
destiny to lead.
Six years ago, Pioneer 10 sailed beyond the orbits of
Neptune and of Pluto -- the first man-made object to leave the
solar system. Its destination unknown. It has now journeyed
through the tenures of five Presidents -- four billion miles from
Earth.
In the decades ahead, we will follow the path of Pioneer 10.
We will travel to neighboring stars, to new worlds, to discover
the unknown. It will not happen in my lifetime, and probably not
during the lives of my children. But a dream to be realized by
future generations must begin with this generation. We cannot
take the next giant leap for mankind tomorrow -- unless we start
with a single step today. [[PAUSE]]
To all of you here -- and especially the astronauts -- we
wish you good luck in your quests, wherever they may take you.
Godspeed you, one and all. And God bless the United States.
# # #
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
July 17, 1989
INFORMATION
MEMORANDUM FOR CHRISS WINSTON
FROM:
EDWARD E. McNALLY
SUBJECT:
ADDITIONS YOU REQUESTED FOR MOON LANDING SPEECH
I. SUMMARY
Attached for your consideration are the draft "inserts" that
you requested (via Christina from Europe) be prepared for the
Moon landing speech.
II. DISCUSSION
A.
One More Applause Line
(Insert at the middle of page 3 -- after "The Eagle has
landed. ")
"And in July of 1969 -- while a vocal few burned flags here
on Earth -- these quiet heroes planted one on the Moon."
B.
"Mission to Planet Earth" paragraph
(To be inserted after the 4th full paragraph near the
bottom of Page 6 of "Draft Two," following the words:
" growth, prosperity and security of our Nation.
"And the space station will also serve as a stepping stone
to the most important planet in the Solar System -- Planet Earth.
"As I said in Europe a few days ago, environmental
destruction knows no borders. A major national -- and
international -- initiative is needed to seek new solutions for
ozone depletion, global warming, and acid rain. This initiative
-- 'Mission to Planet Earth' -- is a critical part of our space
most
program. And it reminds us of what the astronauts remember as
the most stirring sight of all. It wasn't the Moon or the stars.
It was the Earth -- tiny, fragile, precious, a blue orb without
borders or nations -- rising above the arid desert of Tranquility
Base."
(To "bridge" this insert, the last full paragraph on
page 6 also needs a minor insert: "Whether for 'Mission to
Planet Earth' or for sustained manned exploration, the space
station is a first and necessary step -- one that we're pleased
has been endorsed by
")
C. Substitute for "Beam Me Up" joke on page 1
(Simplest alternative: Same joke -- but substitute in
the name of Dick Truly -- former Space Shuttle astronaut and now
the Administrator at NASA -- who will be onstage and speak just
before the Apollo astronauts and the President.)
"We hope that neither the motorcade nor the metal detectors
caused too much delay. In the future, I'll just signal Dick
Truly at NASA and say: 'Beam me up. "
(Alternative jokes)
"In preparation for your visit, I did some research. I
learned that, in order to reach the moon, a spacecraft must reach
a speed of nearly 25,000 miles per hour. [[PAUSE]] of course,
your mileage may vary."
(or)
"You know, Alan Shepard was America's first man in space --
and also the first astronaut to swing a golf club on the moon.
[[PAUSE]] That's one small step for a man. One giant bogey for
mankind."
(or)
"Senator John Glenn was another of our original astronauts.
Part of his mission was to search for signs of intelligent life
out there. It turned out to be excellent training for his work
inside the Congress."
(or)
"From their ranks will emerge the men and women who will one
day walk on Mars -- and we can establish once and for all whether
Shirley MacLaine ever lived there."
D. Alternative Jokes for the Astronauts Barbecue
"Who would have dreamed that someday we'd be attending a
barbecue with men who left footprints on the moon? Someone said
that would happen the year Hugh Hefner ties the knot."
(or -- after the two "Jake Garn" jokes -- )
"Today Jake says his flight was all a mistake. When he
heard the shuttle described as 'the ultimate flight experience'
-- he assumed they were talking about Donald Trump's."
(McNally/Simon)
July 15, 1989 1:00 p.m.
Draft Two (APOLLO)
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: 20TH ANNIVERSARY OF APOLLO MOON LANDING
THE STEPS OF THE AIR AND SPACE MUSEUM
WASHINGTON, D.C.
THURSDAY, JULY 20, 1989, 10:00 A.M.
Thank you, Mr. Vice President, for your introduction and for
your skillful new leadership on the National Space Council.
And thanks to all of you, who have braved the crowds and
heat to join us today. Behind me stands one of the most visited
places on Earth -- a temple to American courage and ingenuity.
And before me stand those on whose shoulders this legacy was
built -- the men and women of the United States astronauts corps.
We hope that neither the motorcade nor the metal detectors
caused too much delay. In the future, I'll just signal the Vice
President and say: "Dan -- Beam me up."
We are very proud to be part of this unprecedented gathering
of America's space veterans -- and to share this stage with three
of the greatest heroes of this or any other century -- the crew
of Apollo 11.
It's hard to believe 20 years have passed. Neil and Buzz --
the originators of the moonwalk.
And we also honor Michael Collins -- former director of this
amazing museum -- and the brave pilot who flew alone on the dark
side of the Moon, while Neil and Buzz touched down. Mike -- you
must be the only American over age 10 that night who didn't get
to see the Moon landing.
1
- 2 -
Later this evening, after the crowd disperses and the sun
goes down, a nearly full Moon will rise out of the ocean to the
east and shine down on an America that is prosperous and secure.
For those old enough to remember that historic night -- step
outside tonight with your children or grandchildren. Lift your
eyes skyward, and tell them of the flag that still flies proudly
in the ancient soil of Tranquility Base.
And for those who were not yet born, or then too young to
recall -- you who are the children of the new century -- raise
your eyes to the heavens and join us in a great dream -- an
American dream -- a dream without end.
Project Apollo. The first men on the Moon. They called it
quixotic. Impossible. It had never been done. But America
dreamed it. And America did it.
It began on the morning of July 16, 1969. The sun rose a
second time as the awesome fireball of the Saturn Five lifted
these three pioneers beyond the clouds. A crowd of one million -
- including half the U.S. Congress -- watched live as the Earth
shook beneath their feet -- and our view of the heavens was
changed for all time.
Three days and three nights they journeyed. It was a
perilous, unlikely, breathtaking voyage.
Each of us remember the night.
Barbara and Doro were with me in our white frame house on
the outskirts of Washington, where we had moved to represent
Houston in Congress. Twelve-year-old Marvin was on a trip out
- 3 -
West with family friends, and remembers stopping at a roadside
motel to watch. Jeb was just 16 that summer, teaching English
and listening by radio in a small Mexican village, where
electricity had yet to arrive.
The landing itself was harrowing. Alarms flashed -- and a
computer overload threatened to halt the mission while Eagle
dangled thousands of feet above the Moon. Armstrong seized
manual control to avoid a huge crater strewn with boulders. With
new alarms signalling a loss of fuel -- and the view now blocked
by lunar dust -- Mission Control began the countdown for a
mandatory abort.
America listened with a lump in our throat and a prayer on
our lips. Only 17 seconds of fuel remained. And then out of the
static came the words: [[PAUSE]] "Tranquility Base here. The
Eagle has landed." [[PAUSE]]
Within one lifetime, humankind had traveled from the dunes
of Kitty Hawk to the dust of another world. Apollo is a
testament to our Nation's unparalleled ability to respond swiftly
and successfully to a clearly stated challenge -- and to
America's willingness to take great risks for great rewards.
We had a challenge. We set a goal. And we achieved it.
And it reminds us that -- not only is this an occasion to
thank our astronauts for their courage and skill -- we also thank
the American people for their faith -- the drive and daring of an
entire nation committed to a dream.
In the building behind me are the testaments to Apollo and
- 4 -
to what came before -- the chariots of fire flown by Armstrong,
Yeager, Lindbergh, and the Wrights. And across this great
expanse of grass are preserved the founding documents of the idea
that made it all possible -- the world's greatest experiment in
freedom and diversity.
And standing here between these twin legacies, it is a
fitting place to look forward to the future.
Because the Apollo astronauts left more than flags and
footprints on the Moon. They also left some unfinished business.
For even 20 years ago, we recognized that America's ultimate goal
was not simply to go there and go back -- but to go there and go
on.
Mike Collins said it best: "The Moon is not a destination -
- it's a direction."
Space is the inescapable challenge to all the advanced
nations of the Earth. And there is little question that, in the
21st Century, humans will again leave their home planet for
voyages of discovery and exploration. What was once improbable,
is now inevitable.
The time has come to look beyond brief encounters. We must
commit ourselves anew to a sustained program of manned
exploration of the solar system -- and yes -- the permanent
settlement of space.
Today the U.S. is the richest nation on Earth -- with the
most powerful economy in the world. And our goal is nothing less
than to establish the United States as a permanent, spacefaring
- 5 -
nation.
From the voyages of Columbus -- to the purchase of Alaska --
to the journey to the Moon itself -- history proves that we have
never lost by pressing the limits of our frontiers.
Indeed -- it is now estimated that -- for every dollar
invested in the Moon program -- Apollo returned seven to eight
dollars in benefits to our economy.
In 1961, it took a crisis -- the space race -- to speed
things up. Today we don't have a crisis. We just have an
opportunity.
[To do this, I don't have a 10-year plan like Apollo. I
have three of them.
First, for the coming decade -- for the 1990's -- Space
Station Freedom -- the critical next step in all our space
endeavors.
Then, for the new century -- for the first decade -- back to
the Moon. Back to the future. And this time -- back to stay.
And third -- for the second decade of the new millennium --
a journey into tomorrow, a journey to another world -- a manned
mission to Mars.]
Each mission will lay the groundwork for the next. And the
pathway to the stars begins with you -- the American people. And
it continues just up the street there -- to the American Congress
-- where the future of the space station -- and our future as a
spacefaring nation -- will be decided.
Yes, we are at a crossroads. Hard decisions must be made
- 6 -
now as we prepare to enter the next century.
As William Jennings Bryan said -- just before the last turn
of the century: "Destiny is not a matter of chance -- it is a
matter of choice. It is not a thing to be waited for -- it is a
thing to be achieved."
To those who may shirk from the challenges ahead -- or who
doubt our chances of success -- let me say this:
To this day, the only footprints on the Moon are American
footprints. The only flag on the Moon is the American flag. And
the know-how that accomplished these feats is American know-how.
What Americans can dream -- Americans can do.
[And 10 years from now -- on the 30th anniversary of this
extraordinary and astonishing flight -- the way to honor the
Apollo astronauts is not by calling them back to Washington for
another round of speeches. It is to have Space Station Freedom
up there, operational, and underway -- a new bridge between
worlds -- and an investment in the growth, prosperity and
security of our Nation.
The space station is a first and necessary step for
sustained manned exploration -- one that we're pleased has been
endorsed by Senator Glenn, and Neil Armstrong, and so many of the
veteran astronauts we honor today. But it is only a first step.
Today I am asking Vice President Quayle to lead the National
Space Council in considering what's needed for the next round of
exploration -- the necessary money, manpower and material -- the
possibility of dramatic international cooperation -- and
- 7 -
realistic timetables and steps along the way. The Space Council
will report back to me as soon as possible with concrete
recommendations -- a roadmap for the year 2000 -- charting a new
and continuing course to the Moon and Mars and beyond.]
There are at least 10 reasons why America must never stop
seeking distant frontiers -- the 10 courageous astronauts who
made the ultimate sacrifice to further the cause of space
exploration. They have taken their place in the heavens -- so
that America can take its place in the stars.
Like them, and like Columbus, we dream of distant shores
we've not yet seen.
[Why the Moon? Why Mars?] Because it is humanity's destiny
"to strive, to seek, to find " And because it is America's
destiny to lead.
Six years ago, Pioneer 10 sailed beyond the orbit of Pluto -
- the first man-made object to leave the solar system. Its
destination unknown. It has now journeyed through the tenures of
five Presidents -- four billion miles from Earth.
In the decades ahead, we will follow the path of Pioneer 10.
It will not happen in my lifetime, and probably not during the
lives of my children. But a dream to be realized by future
generations must begin with this generation. We cannot take the
next giant leap for mankind tomorrow -- unless we start with a
single step today.
To all of you here -- and especially the astronauts -- we
wish you good luck in your quests, wherever they may take you.
- 8 -
Godspeed you, one and all. And God bless the United States.
# # #
(McNally/Simon)
July 13, 1989, 7:00 p.m.
Draft One (MOON)
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: 20TH ANNIVERSARY OF APOLLO MOON LANDING
THE STEPS OF THE AIR AND SPACE MUSEUM
WASHINGTON, D.C.
THURSDAY, JULY 20, 1989, 10:00 A.M.
Thank you, Mr. Vice President, for your introduction and for
your skillful new leadership on the National Space Council.
And thanks to all of you, who have braved the crowds and
heat to join us today. Behind me stands one of the most visited
places on Earth -- a temple to American courage and ingenuity.
And before me stand those on whose shoulders this legacy was
built -- the men and women of the United States astronauts corps.
We hope that neither the motorcade nor the metal detectors
caused too much delay. In the future, I'll just signal the Vice
President and say: "Dan -- Beam me up."
We are very proud to be part of this unprecedented gathering
of America's space veterans -- and to share this stage with three
of the greatest heroes of this or any other century -- the crew
of Apollo 11.
It's hard to believe 20 years have passed. Neil and Buzz --
the resentors of the moonwaek
we hear that when they asked one young kid if he-knew which
American made the first moonwalk he answered: Sure Michael
Jackson 0
And we also honor Michael Collins -- former director of this
amazing museum -- and the brave pilot who flew alone on the dark
side of the moon, while Neil and Buzz touched down. Mike -- you
2
must be the only American over age 10 that night who didn't get
to see the moon landing.
Later this evening, after the crowd disperses and the sun
goes down
nearly full moon will rise out of the ocean to
the east and shine down on an America that is prosperous and
secure. For those old enough to remember that historic night --
step outside tonight with your children or grandchildren. Lift
Pronel ly
your eyes skyward, and tell them of the flag that still flies in
the ancient soil of Tranquility Base
haunting us
taunting
us. to return.
And for those who Were not yet born, or then too young to
recall -- you who are the children of the new century -- raise
your eyes to the heavens and join us in a great dream -- an
American dream -- a dream without end.
Project Apollo. The first men on the moon. They called it
quixotic. Impossible. It had never been done. But America
dreamed it. And America did it.
It began on the morning of July 16, 1969. The sun rose a
second time as the awesome fireball of the Saturn Five lifted
these three pioneers beyond the clouds. A crowd of one million
-- including half the U.S. Congress -- watched live as the earth
shook beneath their feet -- and our view of the heavens was
changed for all time.
Three days and three nights they journeyed. It was a
perilous, unlikely, breathtaking voyage.
Each of is
3
BE remember the night of the landing. the way we remember the
other signposts of that tumultuous decade: The first American in
erbit. The assassination of a young President The songs of the
Beatles, The voice of Martin Luther King. Brave men and
helicopters in the jungles of a distant land
It was the summer of woodstock and the Amazin! Mets. And
when
we the that first step
Like these other moments, America shared the moon landing-in-our
living rooms, television screens glowing blue as dusk fell across
the land
Barbara and Doro were with me in our white frame house on
the outskirts of Washington, where we had moved to represent
Twelve-
Houston in Congress. 12 year Marvin was on a trip out West
with family friends, and remembers stopping at a roadside motel
to watch. Jeb was just 16 that summer, teaching English and
listening by radio in a small Mexican village, where electricity
had yet to arrive.
The landing itself was harrowing. Alarms flashed -- and a
computer overload threatened to halt the mission while Eagle
dangled thousands of feet above the Moon. Armstrong seized
manual control to avoid a huge crater strewn with boulders. with
new alarms signalling a loss of fuel -- and the view now blocked
by lunar dust -- mission control began the countdown for a
mandatory abort.
America listened with a lump in our throat and a prayer on
our lips. Only 17 seconds of fuel remained. And then out of the
4
static came the words: [[PAUSE]] "Tranquility Base here. The
Eagle has landed." [[PAUSE]]
Within one lifetime, humankind had traveled from the dunes
of Kitty Hawk to the dust of another world. Apollo is a
testament to our nation's unparalleled ability to respond swiftly
and successfully to a clearly stated challenge -- and to
America's willingness to take great risks for great rewards.
We had a challenge. We set at goal. And we achieved it.
And it reminds us that -- not only is this an occasion to
thank our astronauts for their courage and skill -- we also thank
the American people for their faith -- the drive and daring of an
entire nation committed to a dream.
In the building behind me are the testaments to Apollo and
to what came before -- the chariots of fire flown by Armstrong,
Yeager, Lindbergh and the Wrights. And across this great expanse
of grass behind granite pillars and beneath inch thick glass
are preserved the founding documents of the idea that made it
all possible -- the world's greatest experiment in freedom and
diversity.
And standing here between these twin legacies, it is a
fitting place to look forward to the future.
Because the Apollo astronauts left more than flags and
footprints on the Moon. They also left some unfinished business.
For even twenty years ago, we recognized that America's ultimate
goal was not simply to go there and go back -- but to go there
and go on.
5
Mike Collins said it best: "The Moon is not a destination
-- it's a direction."
Space is the inescapable challenge to all the advanced
nations of the Earth. And there is little question that, in the
21st century, humans will again leave their home planet for
voyages of discovery and exploration. What was once improbable,
is now inevitable.
The time has come to look beyond brief encounters. We must
commit ourselves anew to a sustained program of manned
exploration of the solar system -- and yes -- the permanent
settlement of space.
Once tiny countries like England and Por tugal oyed
sustained prosperity and security through their primacy as
seafaring nations. And when they lost the mastery of the seas --
they lost hold of the helm.of their peoples' own destiny
Well, I wasn't elected President to preside over America's
decline to a second-class nation Today the U.S. is the richest
nation on Earth -- with the most powerful economy in the world.
And our goal is nothing less than to establish the United States
as a permanent, spacefaring nation.
From the voyages of Columbus -- to the purchase of Alaska --
to the journey to the Moon itself -- history proves that we have
never lost by pressing the limits of our frontiers. No nation
ever went bankrupt by expanding its fleet. No regrets
that its exploration went too-far
6
of course, many doubted Columbus. And many doubted JFK.
But ours is not a nation of doubters. It is a nation of doers.
When President Kennedy made his declaration in 1961, an
American news magazine asked "Why Go to the Moon?" -- and one of
their columnists labeled the program "an expensive stunt."
Twenty years later, that same magazine reports that Apollo
paid down-to-earth dividends -- declaring that man's conquest of
the Moon "would have been a bargain at twice the price" -- and
calling Apollo "the best return on an investment since Leonardo
da Vinci bought himself a sketch pad."
Indeed -- it is now estimated that -- for every dollar
invested in the moon program -- Apollo returned seven to eight
dollars in benefits to our economy.
In 1961, it took a crisis -- the space race -- to speed
things up. Today we don't have a crisis. We just have an
opportunity.
Hesitation and indecision have thwarted that opportunity.
Well, it's time to end the soul-searching -- and start the
searching out there. Because our leaders must recognize what our
people already know: It is time to do more. It is time to go
back -- to go back for good.
To do this, I don't have a 10-year plan like Apollo. I have
three of them.
For the coming decade -- for the 1990's -- Space Station
Freedom -- the critical next step in all our space endeavors.
7
For the new century -- for the first decade -- back to the
Moon. Back to the future. And this time -- back to stay.
And next -- for the second decade of the new millennium -- a
journey into tomorrow, a journey to another world -- a manned
?
mission to Mars
Some will say these goals are audacious and premature. They
forget that -- on the day John F\. Kennedy called on Congress to
fund a flight to the Moon and back -- America had a grand total
of 15 minutes and 22 seconds of manned space experience.
In fact, this new venture is a journey that begins here on
Earth. Each mission will lay the ground work for the next. And
the pathway to the stars begins with you -- the American people.
And it continues just up the street there -- to the American
Congress -- where the future of the space station -- and our
future as a spacefaring nation -- will be decided.
Yes, we are at a crossroads. Hard decisions must be made
now as we prepare to enter the next century.
As William Jennings Bryan said -- just before the last turn
of the century: "Destiny is not a matter of chance -- it is a
matter of choice. It is not a thing to be waited for -- it is a
thing to be achieved."
To those who may shirk from the challenges ahead -- or who
doubt our chances of success -- let me say this:
To this day, the only footprints on the moon are American
footprints. The only flag on the moon is the American flag. And
8
the know-ho that accomplished these feats is American know-how.
What Americans can dream -- Americans can do.
And 10 years from now -- on the 30th anniversary of this
extraordinary and astonishing flight -- the way to honor the
Apollo astronauts is not by calling them back to Washington for
another round of speeches. It is to have Space Station Freedom
up there, operational, and underway -- a new bridge between
worlds -- and an investment in the growth, prosperity and
security of our nation.
The space station is a first and necessary step for
sustained manned exploration -- one that we're pleased has been
endorsed by Senator Glenn, and Neil Armstrong, and so many of the
veteran astronauts we honor today. But is only a first step.
Today I am asking Vice President Quayle to lead the National
Space Council in considering what's needed for the next round of
manpouer
exploration -- the necessary money, and material -- the
possibility of dramatic international cooperation -- and
realistic timetables and steps along the way. The Space Council
will report back to me as soon as possible with concrete
recommendations -- a road map for the Year 2000 -- charting a new
and continuing course to the Moon and Mars and beyond.
There are at least 10 reasons why America must never stop
seeking distant frontiers -- the 10 courageous astronauts who
made the ultimate sacrifice to further the cause of space
exploration. They have taken their place in the heavens -- so
that America can take its place in the stars.
9
Like them, and like Columbus, we dream of distant shores
we've not yet seen. "Come, my friends," wrote Tennyson, "Itis
not too late to seek a newer world. Push off.. for my purpose
holds to sail beyond the sunset, and all the western stars
Why the Moon? Why Mars?
Because it is humanity's destiny
"to strive, to seek, to find " And because it is America's
destiny to lead.
on the day before he died, President Kennedy declared that
this nation had tossed its cap over the wall of space. The
metaphor became real six years ago, when Pioneer 10 sailed beyond
the orbit of Pluto -- the first man-made object to leave the
solar system -- its destination unknown. It has now journeyed
the knures of
through five Presidents -- four billion milas from Earth.
in the decodes alease,
the pack of Pioneer 10.
As Kennedy predicted, we will follow. This will not happen
in my lifetime, and probably not during the lives of my children.
But a dream to be realized by future generations must begin with
this generation. We cannot take the next giant leap for mankind
tomorrow -- unless we start with a single step today.
And perhaps one day my grandson George P. will stand on that
windswept rock at Walker's Point -- beside his own grandchild --
and point confidently to the stars -- to eternity -- and to the
future of this great nation.
To all of you here -- and especially the astronauts -- we
wish you good luck in your quests, wherever they may take you.
Godspeed you, one and all. And God bless the United States.
#
#
#
(McNally/Simon)
July 19, 1989 1:05 p.m.
Draft Three (APOLLO)
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: 20TH ANNIVERSARY OF APOLLO MOON LANDING
THE STEPS OF THE AIR AND SPACE MUSEUM
WASHINGTON, D.C.
THURSDAY, JULY 20, 1989, 10:00 A.M.
Thank you, Mr. Vice President, for your introduction and for
your skillful leadership of the National Space Council.
And thanks to all of you, who have braved the crowds and
heat to join us today. Behind me stands one of the most visited
places on Earth -- a symbol of American courage and ingenuity.
And before me stand those on whose shoulders this legacy was
built -- the men and women of the United States astronauts corps.
We are very proud to be part of this unprecedented gathering
of America's space veterans -- and to share this stage with three
of the greatest heroes of this or any other century -- the crew
of Apollo 11.
It's hard to believe 20 years have passed. Neil and Buzz --
the originators of the moonwalk.
And Michael Collins -- former director of this amazing
museum -- and the brave pilot who flew alone on the dark side of
the Moon, while Neil and Buzz touched down. Mike -- you must be
the only American over age 10 that night who didn't get to see
the Moon landing.
Later this evening, after the crowd disperses and the sun
goes down, a nearly full Moon will rise out of the darkness and
shine down on an America that is prosperous and at peace. For
- 2 -
those old enough to remember that historic night 20 years ago --
O
step outside tonight with your children or grandchildren. Lift
your eyes skyward, and tell them of the flag -- the American flag
-- that still flies proudly in the ancient lunar soil.
And for those who were not yet born, or then too young to
recall -- you who are the children of the new century -- raise
your eyes to the heavens and join us in a great dream -- an
American dream -- a dream without end.
Project Apollo. The first men on the Moon. Some called it
quixotic. Impossible. It had never been done. But America
dreamed it. And America did it.
It began on July 16, 1969. The sun rose a second time that
morning as the awesome fireball of the Saturn Five lifted these
three pioneers beyond the clouds. A crowd of one million --
including half the United States Congress -- held its breath as
the Earth shook beneath their feet -- and our view of the heavens
was changed for all time.
Four days and four nights they journeyed. It was a
perilous, unlikely, breathtaking voyage.
Each of us remember the night.
red
house
Barbara and Doro were with me in our brick home on the
^
h
outskirts of Washington, where we had moved to represent Houston
in Congress. Twelve-year-old Marvin was on a trip out West with
family friends, and remembers stopping at a roadside motel to
watch. Jeb was just 16 that summer, teaching English and
women Mross the country whose character, creativity,
their colleagues - the thousands of complitment talented men and
and courage brought this dream to life
3
listening by radio in a small Mexican village, where electricity
had yet to arrive.
The landing itself was harrowing. Alarms flashed -- and a
computer overload threatened to halt the mission while Eagle
dangled thousands of feet above the Moon. Armstrong seized
manual control to avoid a huge crater strewn with boulders. With
new alarms signalling a loss of fuel -- and the view now blocked
by lunar dust -- Mission Control began the countdown for a
mandatory abort.
America -- indeed the whole world -- listened with a lump in
our throat and a prayer on our lips. Only 20 seconds of fuel
remained. And then out of the static came the words: [[PAUSE]]
Houston.
"Tranquility Base here. The Eagle has landed." [[PAUSE]]
Within one lifetime, humankind had traveled from the dunes
of Kitty Hawk to the dust of another world. Apollo is a
testament to our Nation's unparalleled ability to respond swiftly
and successfully to a clearly stated challenge -- and to
America's willingness to take great risks for great rewards.
We had a challenge. We set a goal. And we achieved it.
these
So today is not only an occasion to thank our astronauts and
the entire space family for their courage and skill It is also
a time to thank the American people for their faith because
^
Apollo's success was made possible by the drive and daring of an
entire nation committed to a dream.
In the building behind me are the testaments to Apollo and
to what came before -- the chariots of fire flown by Armstrong,
- 4 -
Yeager, Lindbergh, and the Wrights. And across this great
expanse of grass are preserved the founding documents of the idea
that made it all possible -- the world's greatest experiment in
freedom and diversity.
-
And here ^ standing between these twin legacies is a fitting
place to look forward to the future.
Because the Apollo astronauts left more than flags and
footprints on the Moon. They also left some unfinished business.
For even 20 years ago, we recognized that America's ultimate goal
was not simply to go there and go back -- but to go there and go
on.
Mike Collins said it best: The Moon is not a destination --
it's a direction.
Space is the inescapable challenge to all the advanced
nations of the Earth. And there is little question that, in the
21st Century, humans will again leave their home planet for
voyages of discovery and exploration. What was once improbable,
is now inevitable.
The time has come to look beyond brief encounters. We must
commit ourselves anew to a sustained program of manned
exploration of the solar system -- and yes -- the permanent
settlement of space. We must commit ourselves to a future where
Americans and citizens of all nations will live and work in
space.
Today the U.S. is the richest nation on Earth -- with the
most powerful economy in the world. And our goal is nothing less
- 5 -
than to establish the United States as the pre-eminent
spacefaring nation.
From the voyages of Columbus -- to the Oregon Trail -- to
the journey to the Moon itself -- history proves that we have
never lost by pressing the limits of our frontiers.
Indeed, earlier this month, one news magazine reported that
Apollo paid down-to-earth dividends -- declaring that man's
conquest of the Moon "would have been a bargain at twice the
price." They called Apollo "the best return on an investment.
since Leonardo da Vinci bought himself a sketch pad. " [[PAUSE]]
In 1961, it took a crisis -- the space race -- to speed
things up. Today we don't have a crisis. We have an
opportunity.
To seize this opportunity, I'm not proposing a 10-year plan
like Apollo. I'm proposing three of them.
First, for the coming decade -- for the 1990's -- Space
Station Freedom -- the critical next step in all our space
endeavors.
Then, for the new century -- [for the first decade] -- back
to the Moon. Back to the future. And this time -- back to stay.
And third -- [for the second decade of the new millennium]
I
- a journey into tomorrow, a journey to another world -- a manned
mission to Mars.
Each mission will lay the groundwork for the next. And the
pathway to the stars begins as it did 20 years ago with you --
the American people. And it continues just up the street there
I
- 6 -
- to the American Congress -- where the future of the space
station -- and our future as a spacefaring nation -- will be
decided.
Yes, we are at a crossroads. Hard decisions must be made
now as we prepare to enter the next century.
As William Jennings Bryan said -- just before the last turn
of the century: "Destiny is not a matter of chance -- it is a
matter of choice. It is not a thing to be waited for ---- it is a
9 and the space station will also serve, as
thing to be achieved."
a solar Planet Earth.
To those who may shirk from the challenges ahead -- or who
doubt our chances of success -- let me say this:
To this day, the only footprints on the Moon are American
stepping stone to the most
footprints. The only flag on the Moon is the American flag. And
in the System
the know-how that accomplished these feats is American know-how.
What Americans can dream -- Americans can do.
And 10 years from now -- on the 30th anniversary of this
extraordinary and astonishing flight -- the way to honor the
Apollo astronauts is not by calling them back to Washington for
another round of speeches. It is to have Space Station Freedom
up there, operational, and underway -- a new bridge between
worlds -- and an investment in the growth, prosperity and
technological superiority of our Nation.
'As I said in Europe a few days ago, environmental
destruction knows no borders. A major national -- and
international -- initiative is needed to seek new solutions for
ozone depletion, global warming, and acid rain. This initiative
- 7 -
-- 'Mission to Planet Earth' -- is a critical part of our space
program. And it reminds us of what the astronauts remember as
the most stirring sight of all. It wasn't the Moon or the stars.
It was the Earth -- tiny, fragile, precious, a blue orb -- rising
above the arid desert of Tranquility Base
"
The space station is a first and necessary step for
sustained manned exploration -- one that we're pleased has been
endorsed by Senator Glenn, and Neil Armstrong, and so many of the
veteran astronauts we honor today. But it is only a first step.
Today I am asking Vice President Quayle to lead the National
Space Council in determining what's needed for the next round of
exploration -- the necessary money, manpower and material -- the
feasibility of international cooperation -- and realistic
timetables and milestones along the way. The Space Council will
report back to me as soon as possible with concrete
recommendations to chart a new and continuing course to the Moon
and Mars and beyond.
There are many reasons to explore the universal but 10 very
special reasons why America must never stop seeking distant
frontiers -- the 10 courageous astronauts who made the ultimate
sacrifice to further the cause of space exploration. They have
taken their place in the heavens -- so that America can take its
place in the stars.
Like them, and like Columbus, we dream of distant shores
we've not yet seen.
Why the Moon? Why Mars? Because it is humanity's destiny
- 8 -
"to strive, to seek, to find..." And because it is America's
destiny to lead.
Six years ago, Pioneer 10 sailed beyond the orbits of
Neptune and of Pluto -- the first man-made object to leave the
solar system. Its destination unknown. It has now journeyed
through the tenures of five Presidents -- four billion miles from
Earth.
In the decades ahead, we will follow the path of Pioneer 10.
We will travel to neighboring stars, to new worlds, to discover
the unknown. It will not happen in my lifetime, and probably not
during the lives of my children. But a dream to be realized by
future generations must begin with this generation. We cannot
take the next giant leap for mankind tomorrow -- unless we start
with a single step today.
To all of you here -- and especially the astronauts -- we
wish you good luck in your quests, wherever they may take you.
Godspeed you, one and all. And God bless the United States.
###
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
Date: 7-17-89
TO:
Ed McNally
FROM:
JUSTINE D'ANDREA rola
Associate Director
Office of Cabinet Affairs
Attached is a suggested insert for the speech
on July 20th, sent to me by H.P. Goldfield.
JUL-17-1989 09:57 FROM SWIDLER & BERLIN
TO
P.02
HHS
SUGGESTED SPEECH LANGUAGE
As we develop the frontier of space, I believe our national
experience in developing our own frontier more than a century ago
can point the way. We will need innovative new approaches to the
relationship between government, industry and the academic
community just as we did then. And just as it did a century ago,
American private enterprise must supply the energy to push open
the doors of the new frontier. Space is a vast resource and we
have only begun to understand how it can serve the needs of the
people of this nation and the world. Therefore, I will do all I
can as president to encourage commercial investment in space, and
to broaden the opportunities for private sector involvement.
Space will be commercialized. I intend to make certain that the
United States leads the way.
SAT 15 JUL 89 09:49
PG.03
pg
(McNally/Simon)
July 15, 1989 1:00 p.m.
Draft Two (APOLLO)
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: 20TH ANNIVERSARY OF APOLLO MOON LANDING
THE STEPS OF THE AIR AND SPACE MUSEUM
WASHINGTON, D.C.
THURSDAY, JULY 20, 1989, 10:00 A.M.
Thank you, Mr. Vice President, for your introduction and for
your skillful new leadership on the National Space Council.
And thanks to all of you, who have braved the crowds and
heat to join us today. Behind me stands one of the most visited
places on Earth -- a temple to American courage and ingenuity.
And before me stand those on whose shoulders this legacy was
built -- the men and women of the United States astronauts corps.
We hope that neither the motorcade nor the metal detectors
caused too much delay. In the future, I'll just signal the Vice
President and say: "Dan -- Beam me up."
We are very proud to be part of this unprecedented gathering
of America's space veterans -- and to share this stage with three
of the greatest heroes of this or any other century -- the crew
of Apollo 11.
It's hard to believe 20 years have passed. Neil and Buzz --
the originators of the moonwalk.
And we also honor Michael Collins -- former director of this
amazing museum -- and the brave pilot who flew alone on the dark
side of the Moon, while Neil and Buzz touched down. Mike -- you
must be the only American over age 10 that night who didn't get
to see the Moon landing.
SHI ID JUL 89 09:50
PG.04
- 2 -
Later this evening, after the crowd disperses and the sun
goes down, a nearly full Moon will rise out of the ocean to the
the
in east and shine down on an America that is prosperous and secure.
at pace.
For those old enough to remember that historic night 220 step
years ago
outside tonight with your children or grandchildren. Lift your
eyes skyward, and tell them of the flag that still flies proudly
in the ancient soil of Tranquility Base the m oon,
(mention the
plague they left?
"Were men from
And for those who were not yet born, or then too young to
recall -- you who are the children of the new century -- raise
decade?
your eyes to the heavens and join us in a great dream -- an
American dream -- a dream without end.
Project Apollo. The first men on the Moon. They Some called it
quixotic. Impossible. It had never been done. But America
dreamed it. And America did it.
not lly-
hear dawn on
it was
It began on the morning of July 16, 1969. The sun rose a
9:32a.m.
that morning
second time as the awesome fireball of the Saturn Five lifted
^
these three pioneers beyond the clouds. A crowd of one million -
held their breath
- including half the U.S. Congress -- watched live as the Earth
shook beneath their feet -- and our view of the heavens was
changed for all time.
4
4
Three days and three nights they journeyed. It was a
perilous, unlikely, breathtaking voyage.
Each of us remember the night.
brick
Barbara and Doro were with me in our white frame-house on
the outskirts of Washington, where we had moved to represent
Houston in Congress. Twelve-year-old Marvin was on a trip out
SAT 15 JUL 89 09:50
PG.05
- 3 -
West with family friends, and remembers stopping at a roadside
motel to watch. Jeb was just 16 that summer, teaching English
whered what
?
and listening by radio in a small Mexican village, where
the radio
electricity had yet to arrive.
The landing itself was harrowing. Alarms flashed -- and a
computer overload threatened to halt the mission while Eagle
dangled thousands of feet above the Moon. Armstrong seized
manual control to avoid a huge crater strewn with boulders. With
new alarms signalling a loss of fuel -- and the view now blocked
by lunar dust -- Mission Control began the countdown for a
mandatory abort.
actually
meryone
America listened 20 with a lump in our throat and a prayer on
round
world the was
our lips. Only N seconds of fuel remained. And then out of the
fued
static came the words: [[PAUSE]] "Tranquility Base here. The
Houston,
or
is
Eagle has landed." [[PAUSE]]
my memory
faulty?
Within one lifetime, humankind had traveled from the dunes
of Kitty Hawk to the dust of another world. Apollo is a
testament to our Nation's unparalleled ability to respond swiftly
and successfully to a clearly stated challenge -- and to
America's willingness to take great risks for great rewards.
We had a challenge. We set a goal. And we achieved it.
And it reminds us that -- not only is this an occasion to
thank our astronauts for their courage and skill here we also thank
you need to recognize
the thousand
of engineers
the American people for their faith -- the drive and daring of an support
and ground
people people-bots bots
entire nation committed to a dream.
TASA
who industry built
In the building behind me are the testaments to Apollo and
these machines Jobuly
monument?
monuments?
SAT 15 JUL 89 09:51
PG.06
- 4 -
to what came before -- the chariots of fire flown by Armstrong,
Yeager, Lindbergh, and the Wrights. And across this great
expanse of grass are preserved the founding documents of the idea
that made it all possible -- the world's greatest experiment in
freedom and diversity.
And standing here between standing these twin legacies, It is a
fitting place to look forward to the future.
Because the Apollo astronauts left more than flags and
footprints on the Moon. They also left some unfinished business.
For even 20 years ago, we recognized that America's ultimate goal
come
was not simply to go there and go back -- but to go there and go
on.
Mike Collins said it best: "The Moon is not a destination -
- it's a direction
Space is the inescapable challenge to all the advanced
nations of the Earth. And there is little question that, in the
21st Century, humans will again leave their home planet for
voyages of discovery and exploration. What was once improbable,
is now inevitable.
The time has come to look beyond brief encounters. We must
commit ourselves anew to a sustained program of manned
exploration of the solar system -- and yes -- the permanent
settlement of space.
Today the U.S. is the richest nation on Earth -- with the
most powerful economy in the world. And our goal is nothing less
than to establish the United States as a permanent, spacefaring
the pre-eminant
SAT 15 JUL 89 09:51
PG.07
a poor analogy since
we only hought it, didn't
explore or discover it.
- 5 -
nation.
(or expeditions)
explaration/of Lewis & clark
From the voyages of Columbus -- to the purchase of Alaska
to the journey to the Moon itself -- history proves that we have
never lost by pressing the limits of our frontiers.
L Indeed -- it is now estimated that -- for every dollar
research and development
invested in the Moon program -- Apollo returned seven to eight
dollars in benefits to our economy. of (I'd definitely leave in)
In 1961, it took a crisis -- the space race -- to speed
things up. Today we don't have a crisis. We just have an
opportunity.
To seige this opportunity
(weak) [To do this, I don't have propose a 10-year plan like Apollo. I
have three of them.
propou
First, for the coming decade -- for the 1990's -- Space
Station Freedom -- the critical next step in all our space
endeavors.
Then, for the new century -- for the first decade -- back to
the Moon. Back to the future. And this time -- back to stay.
And third -- for the second decade of the new millennium --
a journey into tomorrow, a journey to another world -- a manned
mission to Mars.]
Each mission will lay the groundwork for the next. And the
pathway to the stars begins, , asit with you -- the American people. And
did 20 years ago,
it continues just up the street there -- to the American Congress
-- where the future of the space station -- and our future as a
spacefaring nation -- will be decided.
Yes, we are at a crossroads. Hard decisions must be made
SHI 15 JUL 89 09:52
PG.08
- 6 -
now as we prepare to enter the next century.
As William Jennings Bryan said -- just before the last turn
of the century: "Destiny is not a matter of chance -- it is a
matter of choice. It is not a thing to be waited for -- it is a
thing to be achieved."
To those who may shirk from the challenges ahead -- or who
doubt our chances of success -- let me say this:
To this day, the only footprints on the Moon are American
footprints. The only flag on the Moon is the American flag. And
the know-how that accomplished these feats is American know-how.
What Americans can dream -- Americans can do.
[And 10 years from now -- on the 30th anniversary of this
extraordinary and astonishing flight -- the way to honor the
Apollo astronauts is not by calling them back to Washington for
another round of speeches. It is to have Space Station Freedom
up there, operational, and underway -- a new bridge between
(a bugy
worlds -- and an investment in the growth, prosperity and technilogical
word to our
superiority
international security of our Nation.
actners in
Station that it
would us
The space station is a first and necessary step for
used by
the military)
sustained manned exploration -- one that we're pleased has been
endorsed by Senator Glenn, and Neil Armstrong, and so many of the
veteran astronauts we honor today. But it is only a first step.
Today I am asking Vice President Quayle to lead the National
Space Council in considering determining what's needed for the next round of
exploration -- the necessary money, manpower and material -- the
possibility feasibility of dramatic international cooperation -- and
already cooperating with many countries in space, 00
to do so wouldn't deconsidered dramatic)
- 7 -
milistones
realistic timetables and steps along the way. The Space Council
will report back to me as soon as possible with concrete
and beyond
recommendations -- a roadmap for the year 2000 charting a new
and continuing course to the Moon and Mars and beyond.]
There are many reasons to explore the universe, but
There are at least 10 reasons specific why America must never stop
seeking distant frontiers -- the 10 courageous astronauts pioneers who
(actually
all
weren't
astronants)
made the ultimate sacrifice to further the cause of space
exploration. They have taken their place in the heavens -- so
that America can take its place in the stars.
Like them, and like Columbus, we dream of distant shores
we've not yet seen.
[Why the Moon? Why Mars?] Because it is humanity's destiny
"to strive, to seek, to find " And because it is America's
destiny to lead.
Neptune and
Six years ago, Pioneer 10 sailed beyond the orbit of Pluto -
- the first man-made object to leave the solar system. Its
destination unknown. It has now journeyed through the tenures of
five Presidents -- four billion miles from Earth.
In the decades ahead, we will follow the path of Pioneer 10.
This part work We will travel to neighboring stars, to discover whatever lies waiting
needs
Dt needs
It will not happen in my lifetime, and probably not during the for us.
that well
the point
lives of my children. But a dream to be realized by future
be discount
all along generations must begin with this generation. We cannot take the
not start
the way
something
now for
next giant leap for mankind tomorrow -- unless we start with a
wen my
single step today.
won't live
child
to realize!
To all of you here -- and especially the astronauts -- we
wish you good luck in your quests, wherever they may take you.
See next pg.
65:60 68 700 CT IHC
PG. 10
- 8 -
Godspeed you, one and all. And God bless the United States.
# #
This seems a weak ending for two reasons:
/. It again recognizes just the actionalis, who are
arguably the least important to these great the
undertaking - at least compared to
designers, engineers, etc-the men and women who make
it happen, not to mention political leadership.
2. "Wishing them good buck on their quest" i.e. is
just plain not how it will happen! They, have a
"all of you here and astionants" don't
quest unless the Pres. -N- Cong. approve one!
a ringing endorsement for the quest and doesn't YR's
have to be specific. It could he as general
support would be more concrete - and as
"Some ash how can are dream such dreams the
or a such programs ? & say How that can
United propose states of america- the country put
these atseronants on the Moon- do any less?"
On some such.
Thanks for opportunity to comment
Shirley Green
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
July 18, 1989
MEMORANDUM FOR CHRISS WINSTON
FROM:
BOB SIMON
SUBJECT:
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS ON MOON LANDING SPEECH
On page 5, graph 2, I have had trouble checking this
assertion.
NASA Administrator Richard Truly has used similar language
in a recent speech and is rather widely quoted by other NASA
types. To back this up, NASA has two studies, one from 1971 and
one from 1988. Frankly, I question a number of the key
assumptions used in the studies and don't think their conclusions
are supported by the evidence. For this reason, I recommend
deleting this sentence.
As a substitute, Ed and I suggest restoring this paragraph
from the first draft:
Indeed, earlier this month, one news magazine
reported that Apollo paid down-to-earth
dividends -- declaring that man's conquest of
the Moon "would have been a bargain at twice
mart A
the price." They called Apollo "the best
return on an investment
since Leonardo da
Vinci bought himself a sketch pad."
If you decide to keep this sentence, given NASA's
willingness to support its accuracy, I suggest the following
rewrite:
"Indeed -- it is now estimated that -- for
every dollar NASA invested in research and
development, seven to eight dollars in
benefits were returned to the economy."
This wording reflects the studies' conclusions more closely
without addressing the studies' underlying assumptions.
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
Date: 7/17/89
TO:
Ed McNally
FROM:
JUSTINE D'ANDREA jda
Associate Director
Office of Cabinet Affairs
Ed, attached are draft remarks that Admiral
Truly has suggested that the President give.
Let me know if you have any questions.
x2800
JUL 14 '88 12:54 NASA HQTS
PAGE. 02
DRAFT
Thank you, Dan. And thank all of you here for the opportunity to join
you in paying tribute to these great explorers here on the platform, and to
the great national effort that put them on the moon twenty years ago.
I don't think there is anyone in the world who does not envy them that
visionary experience or who does not remember in detail that gripping
moment when the world we live in was changed forever. When America
decided to accept the Apollo challenge, we rolled up our sleeves and did that
terribly difficult and dangerous job just as well as we could. When Apollo
11 proved we could meet our commitments to ourselves and to the world,
we felt the powerful surge of pride, of relief, of delight, and wonder. These
three men of Apollo 11 are the testament to what America can achieve.
They lifted the spirit of a generation and raised forever the horizons of the
human race.
Today, we are still enjoying the dividends that flowed from Apollo's
outpouring of new science and new technology; today we take for granted
JUL 14 '88 12:54 NASA HQTS
PAGE. 03
2
knowledge and capabilities that simply were unthought-of when President
Kennedy enunciated the objective of a manned lunar landing and return
within the decade. One legacy we often overlook is that the Apollo objective
forced a technical reeducation throughout the country; during that short
decade we tripled the number of graduating physical scientists, more than
doubled the engineers, and doubled the mathematicians. Apollo energized a
generation of intellect, a generation we have relied on for the past twenty
years to make our complex modern society work competitively and
successfully.
There is another legacy from America's first steps away from the Earth
that the whole world has taken to heart, a legacy that is especially important
to us today. When astronauts looked back at the Earth, back toward
mankind's home, they saw no boundaries or nations, just one blue planet of
continents and oceans and clouds bright and beautiful against the black of
space. That poetic and prophetic vision of our fragile planetary home,
repeated again and again by every space traveler, awakened a careless world
to the reality and immediacy of global environmental issues.
JUL 14 '88 12:55 NASA HQTS
PAGE. 04
3
As we are here today to honor our past, I believe it is fitting at the
same time to celebrate our future. I have promised to emphasize our civil
space activities, to place America at the forefront of spacefaring nations, to
provide coherence and continuity as we move thoughtfully toward new
visionary goals and expand the reach and grasp of mankind outward from
the Earth.
We have already begun. We have defined Space Station Freedom as
the doorway to a whole range of space futures. We are building the great
scientific space observatories that will make the universe, both past and
future, more accessible and understandable to all of us. We have embarked
on an intensive robotic exploration of the outer planets. We are committed
to the extensive use of space systems to study and monitor and understand
and repair the stresses to the global environment. I am confident that the
people of America and the Congress are enthusiastic proponents and
supporters of a strong and balanced civil space program. And, I am going
JUL 14 '88 12:55 NASA HQTS
PAGE. 05
4
to be personally involved in making sure we get the people and the money
and the facilities required for a first-class program.
I am equally certain that every part of our society also feels the time
has come to enunciate our nation's long-term goals beyond the projects
already in process of being approved and carried out. It is time to fill out
the national agenda for our country's future in space---to recognize our
destiny and to commit to its pursuit.
I have asked for help. The Vice President and the NASA
Administrator have been soliciting advice and counsel on this matter of our
ultimate place in space. They have engaged a broad spectrum of responsible
opinion. We have consulted with legislators from both Houses and both
parties. We have listened to the views of the top scientists in the country.
We have talked to the leaders of the industries most involved in the
technologies of space exploration. We have heard the informed views of
many individuals, groups, and associations. We have received a wide range
of programmatic suggestions, but virtually all of them agree that it is time
JUL 14 '88 12:56 NASA HQTS
PAGE. 06
5
to forge a new national consensus, to enter into a new lasting partnership
with the Congress, and to take our stand for our future.
I can tell you all today what I see as one of the broad outlines of our
space future: some time in the next century, I know that people will visit
Mars; I want to be certain that Americans will be there. One recommended
way to get there is by building an early, permanent scientific outpost on the
Moon because we need to learn to walk before we run, we need to learn how
to live off-planet before facing the daunting task of exploring Mars, and we
can expect enormous returns from the unique research we can do there. But
there are other valid concepts to examine and understand as well.
I am therefore asking the Vice President today to take the lead in
working with NASA and the rest of my Administration and the Congress to
hammer out the specifics of our program options, including schedules and
participation and costs. This is the critical first step in the dialogue that
will consolidate and define America's space responsibilities into the next
century. I can see a robust acceptance of America's commitment to
JUL 14 '88 12:56 NASA HQTS
PAGE. 07
6
exploration once again energizing our national will, our young people, our
economy, and our knowledge of the nature of the universe.
Today, after twenty years, we all look back with wonder and pride at
our first steps of lunar exploration. At this time, let us also look forward
with excitement and dedication to making the promises of the next
millennium come true.
I have faith in American and in Americans. If we all want to do it, we
will--and we will do it well. Let's get on with it. God bless you all.
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
July 17, 1989
MEMORANDUM FOR CHRISS WINSTON
DEPUTY ASSISTANT TO THE PRESIDENT
FOR COMMUNICATIONS
FROM:
NELSON LUND
M
ASSOCIATE COUNSEL TO THE PRESIDENT
SUBJECT:
Presidential Remarks: 20th Anniversary of
Apollo Moon Landing
This will confirm our oral advice to your office that Counsel's
office has reviewed the captioned draft remarks. We have no
legal objections.
We appreciate having had the opportunity to review these remarks.
CC: James W. Cicconi
STAFFED IN PARIS, FRANCE
Document No.
SENSITIVE
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
07/15/89
NOON Sunday 07/16
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
SUBJECT: PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: 20th ANNIVERSARY OF APOLLO MOON LANDING
(07/15 1:00 p.m. draft two)
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
WINSTON
CARD
Kristol
CICCONI
Pinkerton
R
DEMAREST
Rogers
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please provide any comments/recommendations directly to Chriss
Winston in the Senior Staff Office, Rm. 1051, by NOON, Sunday
07/16, with an info copy to Jim Cicconi, Rm. 1051. Thanks
RESPONSE:
SENSITIVE
Sun
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
(McNally/Simon)
July 15, 1989 1:00 p.m.
Draft Two (APOLLO)
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: 20TH ANNIVERSARY OF APOLLO MOON LANDING
THE STEPS OF THE AIR AND SPACE MUSEUM
WASHINGTON, D.C.
THURSDAY, JULY 20, 1989, 10:00 A.M.
Thank you, Mr. Vice President, for your introduction and for
your skillful new leadership on the National Space Council.
And thanks to all of you, who have braved the crowds and
heat to join us today. Behind me stands one of the most visited
&
places on Earth -- a temple to American courage and ingenuity.
And before me stand those on whose shoulders this legacy was
built -- the men and women of the United States astronauts corps.
- Should include the Thousands of unsung behind scenes technicians, engineers, etc.
We hope that neither the motorcade nor the metal detectors
NOT
"residential
caused too much delay. In the future, I'll just signal the Vice
President and say: "Dan -- Beam me up. NO!!
We are very proud to be part of this unprecedented gathering
of America's space veterans -- and to share this stage with three
of the greatest heroes of this or any other century -- the crew
of Apollo 11.
It's hard to believe 20 years have passed. Neil and Buzz --
the originators of the moonwalk.
And we also honor Michael Collins -- former director of this
amazing museum -- and the brave American pilot who flew alone on the dark
side of the Moon, while Neil and Buzz touched down. Mike -- you
must be the only American over age 10 that night who didn't get
to see the Moon landing.
- 2 -
Later this evening, after the crowd disperses and the sun
goes down, a nearly full Moon will rise out of the ocean to the
east and shine down on an America that is prosperous and secure.
qreat
For those old enough to remember that historic night -- step
outside tonight with your children or grandchildren. Lift your
the Americon flage-
eyes skyward, and tell them of the flag that still flies proudly
in the ancient lunar soil of Tranquility Base.
And for those who were not yet born, or then too young to
recall -- you who are the children of the new century -- raise
your eyes to the heavens and join us in a great dream -- an
American dream -- a dream without end.
Project Apollo. The first men on the Moon. They called it
quixotic. Impossible. It had never been done. But America
dreamed it. And America did it.
It began on the morning of July 16, 1969. The sun rose a
second time as the awesome fireball of the Saturn Five lifted
these three American pioneers beyond the clouds. A crowd of one million -
- including half the -- watched live as the Earth
shook beneath their feet -- and our view of the heavens was
changed for all time.
Three days and three nights they journeyed. It was a
perilous, unlikely, breathtaking voyage.
Each of us remember the night.
,
Barbara and Doro were with me in our white frame house home on
the outskirts of Washington, where we had moved to represent
Houston in Congress. Twelve-year-old Marvin was on a trip out
- 3 -
West with family friends, and remembers stopping at a roadside
motel to watch. Jeb was just 16 that summer, teaching English
and listening by radio in a small Mexican village, where
electricity had yet to arrive.
The landing itself was harrowing. Alarms flashed -- and a
computer overload threatened to halt the mission while Eagle
dangled thousands of feet above the Moon. Armstrong seized
manual control to avoid a huge crater strewn with boulders. With
new alarms signalling a loss of fuel -- and the view now blocked
by lunar dust -- Mission Control began the countdown for a
mandatory abort. indeed the whole world
America listened with a lump in our throat and a prayer on
our lips. Only 17 seconds of fuel remained. And then out of the
static came the words: [[PAUSE]] "Tranquility Base here. The
Eagle has landed." [[PAUSE]]
Within one lifetime, humankind had traveled from the dunes
of Kitty Hawk to the dust of another world. Apollo is a
testament to our Nation's unparalleled ability to respond swiftly
and successfully to a clearly stated challenge -- and to
America's willingness to take great risks for great rewards.
We had a challenge. We set a goal. And we achieved it.
And it reminds us that -- not only is this an occasion to
thank our astronauts for their courage and skill -- we also thank
and the entire spacefamily
the American people for their faith -- the drive and daring of an
entire nation committed to a dream.
In the building behind me are the testaments to Apollo and
- 4 -
to what came before -- the chariots of fire flown by Armstrong,
Yeager, Lindbergh, and the Wrights. And across this great
expanse of grass are preserved the founding documents of the idea
that made it all possible -- the world's greatest experiment in
freedom and diversity.
And standing here between these twin legacies, it is a
fitting place to look forward to the future.
Because the Apollo astronauts left more than flags and
footprints on the Moon. They also left some unfinished business.
For even 20 years ago, we recognized that America's ultimate goal
was not simply to go there and go back -- but to go there and go
on.
Mike Collins said it best: "The Moon is not a destination -
- it's a direction."
Space is the inescapable challenge to all the advanced
nations of the Earth. And there is little question that, in the
21st Century, humans will again leave their home planet for
voyages of discovery and exploration. What was once improbable,
is now inevitable.
The time has come to look beyond brief encounters. We must
commit ourselves anew to a sustained program of manned
exploration of the solar system -- and yes -- the permanent
settlement of space.
Today the U.S. is the richest nation on Earth -- with the
most powerful economy in the world. And our goal is nothing less
than to establish the United States as a permanent, spacefaring
- 5 -
nation.
settlement of the great American west
From the voyages of Columbus -- to the purchase of Alaska --
to the journey to the Moon itself -- history proves that we have
never lost by pressing the limits of our frontiers.
Indeed -- it is now estimated that -- for every dollar
invested in the Moon program -- Apollo returned seven to eight
dollars in benefits to our economy.
In 1961, it took a crisis -- the space race to speed
things up. Today we don't have a crisis. We just have an
opportunity.
[To do this, I don't have a 10-year plan like Apollo. I
have three of them.
First, for the coming decade -- for the 1990's -- Space
Station Freedom -- the critical next step in all our space
endeavors.
Then, for the new century -- for the first decade -- back to
the Moon. Back to the future. And this time -- back to stay.
And third -- for the second decade of the new millennium --
a journey into tomorrow, a journey to another world -- a manned
mission to Mars.]
Each mission will lay the groundwork for the next. And the
pathway to the stars begins with you -- the American people. And
it continues just up the street there -- to the American Congress
-- where the future of the space station -- and our future as a
spacefaring nation -- will be decided.
Yes, we are at a crossroads. Hard decisions must be made
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now as we prepare to enter the next century.
As William Jennings Bryan said -- just before the last turn
of the century: "Destiny is not a matter of chance -- it is a
matter of choice. It is not a thing to be waited for -- it is a
thing to be achieved."
To those who may shirk from the challenges ahead -- or who
doubt our chances of success -- let me say this:
To this day, the only footprints on the Moon are American
footprints. The only flag on the Moon is the American flag. And
the know-how that accomplished these feats is American know-how.
What Americans can dream -- Americans can do.
[And 10 years from now -- on the 30th anniversary of this
extraordinary and astonishing flight -- the way to honor the
Apollo astronauts is not by calling them back to Washington for
another round of speeches. It is to have Space Station Freedom
up there, operational, and underway -- a new bridge between
worlds -- and an investment in the growth, prosperity and
security of our Nation.
The space station is a first and necessary step for
sustained manned exploration -- one that we're pleased has been
endorsed by Senator Glenn, and Neil Armstrong, and so many of the
veteran astronauts we honor today. But it is only a first step.
Today I am asking Vice President Quayle to lead the National
Space Council in considering what's needed for the next round of
exploration -- the necessary money, manpower and material -- the
possibility of dramatic international cooperation -- and
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realistic timetables and steps along the way. The Space Council
will report back to me as soon as possible with concrete
recommendations -- a roadmap for the year 2000 -- charting a new
and continuing course to the Moon and Mars and beyond.]
There are at least 10 reasons why America must never stop
seeking distant frontiers -- the 10 courageous astronauts who
made the ultimate sacrifice to further the cause of space
exploration. They have taken their place in the heavens -- so
that America can take its place in the stars.
Like them, and like Columbus, we dream of distant shores
we've not yet seen.
[Why the Moon? Why Mars?] Because it is humanity's destiny
"to strive, to seek, to find
"
And because it is America's
destiny to lead.
Six years ago, Pioneer 10 sailed beyond the orbit of Pluto -
- the first man-made object to leave the solar system. Its
destination unknown. It has now journeyed through the tenures of
five Presidents -- four billion miles from Earth.
In the decades ahead, we will follow the path of Pioneer 10.
It will not happen in my lifetime, and probably not during the
lives of my children. But a dream to be realized by future
generations must begin with this generation. We cannot take the
next giant leap for mankind tomorrow -- unless we start with a
single step today.
To all of you here -- and especially the astronauts -- we
wish you good luck in your quests, wherever they may take you.
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Godspeed you, one and all. And God bless the United States.
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