Reaction to Neil Armstrong's passing

CINCINNATI - Neil Armstrong, an Ohio native and the first man to walk on the moon, died at the age of 82 in Cincinnati. Since his passing, close friends, political figures and officials with Cincinnati landmarks have reacted to his death. Read what they had to say about the American hero below.

Friend and fellow Apollo 11 Astronaut Buzz Aldrin: "I am very saddened to learn of the passing Neil Armstrong today.  Neil and I trained together as technical partners but were also good friends who will always be connected through our participation in the mission of Apollo 11.  Whenever I look at the moon it reminds me of the moment over four decades ago when I realized that even though we were farther away from Earth than two humans had ever been, we were not alone.  Virtually the entire world took that memorable journey with us.  I know I am joined by millions of others in mourning the passing of a true American hero and the best pilot I ever knew.  My friend Neil took the small step but giant leap that changed the world and will forever be remembered as a landmark moment in human history.  I had truly hoped that, in 2019, we would be standing together along with our colleague Mike Collins to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of our moon landing.  Regrettably, this is not to be.  Neil will most certainly be there with us in spirit.  On behalf of the Aldrin family, we extend our deepest condolences to Carol and the entire Armstrong family.  I will miss my friend Neil as I know our fellow citizens and people around world will miss this foremost aviation and space pioneer."

U.S. Senator Rob Portman (R-Ohio): "Neil Armstrong was a true American hero, both because of his extraordinary service to his country and the honorable life he led.  He was  a groundbreaking Naval aviator and the world's most famous astronaut, but it was his humble and gracious response to the torrent of attention that followed his accomplishments that may have set him apart from most.  For my family and me, he was a dear friend whose ready smile, quick wit, and thoughtful gestures will be greatly missed.  Our love and prayers go to his wife, Carol, and the other members of his wonderful family."

Ohio Third District Congressman Michael R. Turner: "As a boy, born and raised in Ohio, the legends of the Wrights have been in my memories as long as I can remember.  Neil Armstrong has gone to join them in heaven, and will live on as a legend as well."

Ohio Second District Congresswoman Jean Schmidt: "I was saddened to learn of the death of astronaut Neil Armstrong,  a resident of Ohio's Second Congressional District.  He was one of our nations greatest heroes.  I had the pleasure of meeting Neil a few years ago at the Smithsonian National Air Museum in Washington, D.C., during an event held in his honor.  It is because of the courage and can-do spirit of Ohio natives such as Neil Armstrong and John Glenn that America is first in space."

The Cincinnati Museum Center released this statement:   "We are deeply saddened by the passing of Neil Armstrong.  He was a long-time friend and advisor to the Museum of Natural History & Science at its Gilbert Avenue location.  In 2004, Armstrong was an honorary co-chair and spokesperson for the Union Terminal operating levy campaign.  Through NASA's ambassadors for science program, Armstrong chose Cincinnati Museum Center to receive a moon rock collected during his Apollo 11 mission.  His moon rock is on display in the Museum of Natural History & Science at Cincinnati Museum Center along with a replica of his Apollo 11 space suit and tools."  Douglass W. McDonald, president and CEO of Cincinnati Museum Center said, "Neil has been an inspiration to so many, here locally and around the world.  He is truly and American hero and a man of quiet dedication to science.  We hope his contributions to science and humanity will continue to inspire future scientists and engineers in generations to come."

The Cincinnati Symphony and Pops Orchestra: "We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of legendary astronaut and American hero Neil Armstrong.  The Cincinnati Pops had the honor and privilege to collaborate with Mr. Armstrong on a number of occasions, most recently at Riverbend Music Center in 2009 when he narrated Aaron Copland's Lincoln Portrait.  We were also honored to have him attend a Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra concert this past season.  We join with the rest of the world in honoring his remarkable contributions, and are keeping his family in our thoughts and prayers."