Tom Feeney: “this is a great occasion because 35 years ago a mesmerized world watched as Americans landed on the Moon. Behind me…”

“this is a great occasion because 35 years ago a mesmerized world watched as Americans landed on the Moon. Behind me stands a moon rock that was brought back by our Apollo astronauts, and next to me is a picture of a man standing on the Moon. Thousands viewed Apollo as their calling. They assembled and launched the Saturn V from Kennedy Space Center. They overcame the tragedy of Apollo 1 and guided Apollo 11 through harrowing moments. Many of today's science and engineering leaders throughout our country were inspired as children by this adventure. We will be able to surpass our current discoveries. The space vision that the President has laid out will take us beyond imagination. Recently Americans watched in awe at pictures coming from the Mars rovers. Soon thousands will come to Florida's space coast to watch the Shuttle return to space. We are a restless, inquisitive, pioneering people. We yearn to go. We yearn to explore. We are Americans. Mr. Speaker, I rise to commemorate this great 35th anniversary of Apollo 11.”