Space Shuttle Discovery
When the United States first landed a man on the moon, astronaut Neil Armstrong commented, “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.” His concern was with all mankind, the accomplishments of and benefits to mankind in general.
As the shuttle Discovery completed its voyage, the comment of mission specialist David Hilmers typified the attitude in this country: “I want you to remember what this flight meant to America.” The narrowed focus on America is in stark contrast to that of years before, and is a sad commentary on the mind-set of the country.
ALAN TITUS
Los Angeles
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