Administration of Joseph R. Biden, Jr., 2021

April 28, 2021

Michael Collins lived a life of service to our country. From his time in the Air Force, to his career with NASA, to his service at the State Department, to his leadership of the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum; Michael Collins both wrote and helped tell the story of our Nation's remarkable accomplishments in space.

Many remember him as the astronaut who was by himself, orbiting the Moon as Buzz Aldrin and Neil Armstrong walked on the lunar surface. He may not have received equal glory, but he was an equal partner, reminding our Nation about the importance of collaboration in service of great goals. From his vantage point high above the Earth, he reminded us of the fragility of our own planet and called on us to care for it like the treasure it is.

Although, in his life of accomplishment, he earned many titles and achieved the rank of general, he demanded that everyone call him, simply, Mike. Our prayers are with General Collins' family. Godspeed, Mike.

Categories: Statements by the President : Deaths :: Collins, Michael. Names: Aldrin, Edwin E. "Buzz," Jr.; Collins, Michael.

Subjects: Deaths : Collins, Michael; Space program : Aeronautics and Space Administration, National; Space program : Moon exploration.

DCPD Number: DCPD202100346.

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