I had mixed feelings today watching the last shuttle liftoff from Kennedy Space Centre – something I saw often while a Florida snowbird with my husband, Larry. I wish the crew a safe journey.
Unfortunately, I saw a tragic disaster while standing in front of my trailer and looking up at the sky as the shuttle cleared the horizon so near and yet several miles away. It seems so many years ago now but the image is seared in my memory.
Watching in horror as the explosion happened clearly, we knew something was not right. We rushed indoors to see and hear the tragic report on television.
I will never forget those smiling faces before the launch; so full of anticipation and hope. We cried when we realized they will not return. But we learned from their sacrifice just as we learn from explorations everywhere.
I, for one, will always be grateful to those who put their lives on the line for the good of others.
