Alan Shepard died today ( July 22, 1998 ) of cancer, at age 74. It is a sad day, but he did live a full life.

He was the first American in space and he walked on the moon. Heck, he played golf on the moon! He will be remembered as the KING of astronauts. He was a true roll model for the kids of today. No politics, no sleazey deals; he was just American, " red, white, and blue ". He seemed to have a great sense of humor.

I am glad he got to see the Astronaut Hall of Fame. It is a shame he didn't live long enough to see the International Space Station become a reality.

I still remember that day he " flew " in space. We were all on pins and needles watching the countdown; in those days noboby knew what would happen.

Call anyone a hero who you want to, but we truely lost one today. I shed a tear for you Alan Shepard.

I know they will probably bury him in Arlington, but I think it would be more fitting to shoot his body or ashes into space!

- Bongo ( He had " The Right Stuff " . )