It was some night. We flight students were stationed at NAS North Island, most of us ensigns and lieutenants junior grade, all crammed into the TV room of the BOQ (no one had a private TV in 1969). Packed with people, the non-air conditioned room was sweltering and sweat ran freely down our faces. We were mesmerized by the ghostly black and white pictures on the TV screen. A-3s and A-5s were doing night takeoffs and landings 300 years away; the turbojet noise was deafening and prevented conversation. We watched, riveted, as former Navy pilot Neal Armstrong slowly made his way down the ladder to step onto the Moon. As his foot touched the surface, we broke-out into a huge, rolling cheer. We slapped each other on the back, smiling hugely. Our beers were momentarily forgotten. A giant wave of pride and fellowship swept through the room. An event never to be forgotten.
Now, Obama is ending the manned space program, as he disapproves of American greatness.
we were kids staying up all night to watch IIRC....spreading blankets on the floor....we did the same thing for the March of Dimes telethon and for the annual showing of Oz.....
back when Americans celebrated America...