[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 120, 109th Congress, 2nd Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
NOTE: Apr. 7, 2006 -  [H.Con.Res.366]  SPACE SHUTTLE COLUMBIA--25TH
ANNIVERSARY

Whereas Space Shuttle Columbia was the first manned, reusable spacecraft
that was flown into orbit without benefit of previous unmanned
orbital test flights;

Whereas the Space Shuttle Columbia was the first spacecraft to launch
with wings, using solid rocket boosters;

Whereas the Space Shuttle Columbia was the first reentry spacecraft to
land on a conventional runway;

Whereas the Space Shuttle program has allowed the United States to
partner with other nations to build and to inhabit the International
Space Station;

Whereas the successful return to flight of the Space Shuttle represents
the first leg of the Nation's Vision for Space Exploration;

Whereas the men and women of America's Space Shuttle program have been
instrumental in ensuring the Nation's preeminence in space
exploration for 25 years;

Whereas the very specialized and highly valued workforce of the Space
Shuttle program will contribute greatly to the Vision for Space
Exploration as we return to the Moon, and go on to Mars and beyond;

Whereas, like the explorers Lewis and Clark who explored our great
Nation, John Young and Robert Crippen opened a new era of human
exploration beyond our planet; and

Whereas heroes such as John Young and Robert Crippen are a great
inspiration to our next generation of Americans as they

[[Page 3719]]
120 STAT. 3719

stimulate interest in the study of math and science: Now, therefore,
be it

Resolved by the House of Representatives (the Senate concurring),
That the Congress--
(1) congratulates the National Aeronautics and Space
Administration on the 25th anniversary of the first flight of
the Space Transportation System;
(2) honors Commander John Young and the Pilot Robert
Crippen, who flew Space Shuttle Columbia on April 12-14, 1981,
on its first orbital test flight; and
(3) commends the men and women of the National Aeronautics
and Space Administration and all those supporting America's
space program for their accomplishments and their role in
inspiring the American people.

Agreed to April 7, 2006.