Michael Collins (October 31, 1930 – April 28, 2021) was an American astronaut who was a pivotal member of the historic Apollo 11 mission, the first crewed landing on the Moon. While Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin walked on the lunar surface, Collins piloted the Command Module Columbia in lunar orbit, an essential role that earned him the nickname 'the loneliest man in history' as he orbited solo. A graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point, Collins served as a U.S. Air Force fighter pilot and experimental test pilot before being selected as part of NASA's third group of astronauts in 1963. His first spaceflight was Gemini 10 in 1966, during which he performed two spacewalks. After retiring from NASA in 1970, Collins had a distinguished career, including serving as Assistant Secretary of State for Public Affairs and as the first director of the National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C., overseeing its construction and successful opening. He was also an accomplished author, known for his insightful book 'Carrying the Fire: An Astronaut's Journeys'.
Michael Collins's work history includes a series of influential roles in various companies. Here is a detailed list of his professional journey:
Successfully piloted the Command Module Columbia in lunar orbit during the first crewed Moon landing in July 1969, enabling Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin to land on and return from the Moon.
As pilot of the Gemini 10 mission in 1966, he performed two successful extravehicular activities (EVAs), becoming the first person to meet another spacecraft in orbit and retrieve an experiment package.
Awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1969, the highest civilian honor in the United States, for his contributions to the Apollo 11 mission.
Served as the first director of the Smithsonian Institution's National Air and Space Museum from 1971 to 1978, leading its development, construction, and opening to become one of the world's most popular museums.
Posthumously awarded the Congressional Space Medal of Honor in 2023 for his meritorious efforts and contributions to the welfare of the Nation and mankind.
Authored 'Carrying the Fire: An Astronaut's Journeys' (1974), widely regarded as one of the best astronaut autobiographies, offering a candid and articulate account of his experiences.
University of Central Florida - Year 1990
University of Florida - Year 1987
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Vertical Bridge is the largest private owner and operator of communications infrastructure in the United States. The company acquires, develops, owns, and operates towers, rooftops, small cells, and other digital infrastructure sites that support the growing demand for wireless and broadcast communications. They partner with wireless carriers, broadcasters, and other enterprises to provide critical infrastructure for connectivity.
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