[from a letter to his parents, January 1959, indicating his intention to volunteer for the "Man in Space" program] All volunteers will go through a rigorous elimination process until a handful are selected...I assure you I will analyze the entire picture based upon my past flight experience...There is no reason for expression of fear but merely gratitude to be considered for this very important contribution to science and the country. Will keep you posted. Show less «

[First words on the moon during Apollo 14 mission] And it's been a long way, but we're here.

[5/5/61, to Houston control at blastoff as the first American in space] A-OK, full go.

[1961, upon returning from his space mission] The only complaint I have was that the flight wasn't long enough. Show less «