I’ve never liked the use of “legendary” to describe a real hero. He is not fictitious or mythical nor fabled. He was distinguished, esteemed and honored. I believe he flew to space on more missions than any other astronaut. RIP John.
Military and NASA insignia and decorations
Navy Astronaut Wings
Navy Distinguished Service Medal with gold award star
Distinguished Flying Cross with two gold award stars
China Service Medal
National Defense Service Medal with bronze star
Korean Service Medal with two stars
Presidential Unit Citation (Korea)
United Nations Service Medal
Congressional Space Medal of Honor (1981)
NASA Distinguished Service Medal (1969) with two oak leaf clusters (1981, 2004)
NASA Outstanding Leadership Medal (1992)
NASA Exceptional Achievement Medal (1994)
NASA Exceptional Service Medal (1965, 1966)[22]
“...I believe he flew to space on more missions than any other astronaut....”
Only Jerry Ross and Franklin Chang-Diaz flew more flights. Seven each. RIP John Young.
Young had The Right Stuff.