1921-

American Astronaut

John Glenn achieved two astronautic milestones at different points in his career. In 1962 he was the first American to orbit around Earth, and 36 years later he was the oldest astronaut to fly on a space mission. The first accomplishment bolstered a fledgling space program, reassuring the American public and validating scientists' and engineers' innovations. Glenn's second success renewed Americans' flagging interest in the possibilities of space travel, especially as the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) budget was severely slashed. This flight also recognized that American demographics were reflecting a growing population of senior citizens.

Born on July 18, 1921, in Cambridge, Ohio, Glenn grew up in New Concord. His parents, John Hershel and Clara (Sproat) Glenn, emphasized values of community, patriotism, and duty. Glenn graduated from New Concord High School, which was later renamed John Glenn High School in his...