If parents are looking for a hero for their children to emulate, NASA astronaut Butch Wilmore would be a very good choice.
A decorated U.S. Navy captain, Wilmore retired this week after twenty-five years with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.
Before flying in space, Captain Williams flew in combat in both Iraq and Bosnia. He’s clocked over 8,000 flight hours and recorded 663 aircraft carrier landings
You might also remember that Butch was one of the astronauts marooned on the International Space Station last year into this year.
Steve Koerner, acting director of the Johnson Space Center, was effusive in his praise for the decorated pilot.
“Butch’s commitment to NASA’s mission and dedication to human space exploration is truly exemplary,” he said. “His lasting legacy of fortitude will continue to impact and inspire the Johnson workforce, future explorers, and the nation for generations. On behalf of NASA’s Johnson Space Center, we thank Butch for his service.”
However vaunted and impressive, Captain Wilmore’s legacy will extend well beyond the space program.
A committed believer in Jesus Christ, the NASA astronaut has previously said, “My feeling on all of this [space exploration] goes back to my faith. It’s bound in my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He is working out His plan and His purposes for His glory throughout all of humanity and how that plays in our lives is significant and important.”
In announcing his retirement, the Tennessee native didn’t shy away from sharing how it’s been his faith that’s motivated his professional pursuits.
“From my earliest days, I have been captivated by the marvels of creation, looking upward with an insatiable curiosity,” Wilmore said. “This curiosity propelled me into the skies, and eventually to space, where the magnificence of the cosmos mirrored the glory of its Creator in ways words can scarcely convey,”
He then added:
“Even as I ventured beyond Earth’s limits, I remained attuned to the beauty and significance of the world below, recognizing the same intricate design evident among the stars is also woven into the fabric of life at home.”
What a testimony of a talented man. What a declaration of a profound and enduring commitment born of a lifelog relationship with Jesus Christ.
It’s always exciting to see Christians modeling their faith, boldly and unapologetically demonstrating how a personal belief in Jesus can integrate beautifully with a very public role. Captain Wilmore’s work has afforded him a unique perspective on God’s awesome and wondrous handiwork.
At a press conference earlier this year following his delayed return from space, Captain Wilmore said it was God’s Word that sustained him through the long mission. As an elder at his church, we can be assured that the now retired NASA veteran will also be relying on the Scriptures in the years to come.
Congratulations and thank you, Captain Butch Wilmore!
Photo from Getty Images.
