It is our position that with the passing of Neil Armstrong we have lost a true American hero.  The Purdue graduate and first man to walk on the moon passed away on Aug. 25  due to complications from a cardiovascular procedure.

Neil Armstrong’s famous walk on the moon both captivated and inspired a nation.  As the world sat glued to its television screens, Armstrong firmly placed himself into history as one of the greatest explorers as he stepped down that ladder and said his famous line.  It helped us realize that, with a little teamwork and perseverance, anything is possible.

Even after his last flight on Apollo 11, Armstrong stayed true to his values and did not let his fame become a distraction.  He held on to his Indiana roots by staying connected to his alma mater, Purdue University.

The fearlessness that Armstrong showed during his Apollo 11 flight and throughout his career as a U.S. Navy pilot and test pilot is a model character for generations to come.  For someone who could have had the nation in his palm, he stayed humble and committed to his passion.