Sensenbrenner Congratulates Discovery Crew and NASA on Job Well Done
Sensenbrenner Congratulates Discovery Crew and NASA on Job Well Done
August 9, 2005
(WASHINGTON, D.C.) -- Representative F. James Sensenbrenner, Jr., (R-Menomonee Falls), former Chairman of the House Committee on Science from 1997 to 2001, and former Chairman of the Science Subcommittee on Space and Aeronautics from 1995 to 1997, issued the following statement congratulating NASA and the crew of the space shuttle Discovery:
"Americans all around the world breathed a collective sigh of relief today as they applauded the safe landing of Space Shuttle Discovery early this morning in California.
"I congratulate the seven courageous astronauts aboard the Discovery, led by Commander Eileen Collins, the first woman to ever fly a space shuttle. I would also like to extend my appreciation to all of the folks at NASA who helped make this a safe and productive trip. With the memories of the Columbia tragedy still fresh in everyone's minds, this became an even more critical flight, resulting in increased scrutiny by the people at NASA, the media, and by fellow Americans.
"After a less-than-perfect launch on July 26, during which a chunk of foam insulation came off the fuel tank, NASA engineers and the crew of the Discovery had to work overtime to fix the problem. During the course of the mission, the crew conducted three spacewalks, including one to test new techniques for fixing the shuttle's heat shield while in orbit.
"With Discovery's smooth and near-perfect landing at a little after 5:00 AM Pacific time today, the people at NASA demonstrated their determination and 'can-do' spirit in the risky realm of space exploration. As NASA evaluates the future of the shuttle program in the months ahead, we can all take comfort in the knowledge that American grit and ingenuity prevailed to safely bring home the Discovery and it's seven-member crew.
"When President Bush spoke to the Discovery crew last week, he thanked them for being risk-takers for the sake of exploration, and for setting great examples of courage for fellow Americans. I couldn't agree more. And as I echo the President's sentiments, I would also like to say to the seven astronauts: welcome back!"
http://www.house.gov/sensenbrenner/pr20050809.html