Alcee Hastings: “from the earliest of time, man has yearned to explore the unknown--to chart the distant stars. This unquenchable spirit…”

“from the earliest of time, man has yearned to explore the unknown--to chart the distant stars. This unquenchable spirit to learn what is beyond the horizon, or over the next hill, is part of who we are. As Americans, this character is, more than anything, a defining part of us as a people. Indeed the America that we lovingly call home is far from the distant lands of most of our early roots. From Lewis and Clark to the ``iron horse'' and the wagon train, the earliest quest for manned flight and, yes, even the first efforts to explore the heavens are celebrated mileposts on our journey for discovery. The Space Shuttle Columbia and the brave crew that she carried into space were, and is, part of this long voyage. We have always known and accepted the risks associated with our most daring of efforts. This does not, however, lessen the deep pain in our heart or fill the empty void in our soul brought on by this tragedy. Space Shuttle flights were never without risks, though many had grown to view them that way. Mr. Speaker, it is appropriate that this Congress, indeed, the nation and the world, honor and remember the members of this diverse and international space crew that was lost. We must express our deepest appreciation to them and their families for the sacrifice that they made for the advancement of humanity. For their mission was a noble one. As a Floridian, the Columbia tragedy hits very close to home.”