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Text Box: Alan Shepard: America's First AstronautBorn: November 18, 1923 in East Derry, NHDied: July 21, 1998Alan Shepard was one of the seven Americans chosen for the first American manned mission into space.  His flight was a historic event watched by millions all of the world.  He could actually maneuver the space capsule Freedom 7.  After this flight, he continued his career in space aeronautics.  He became chief of the astronaut office.  He finally flew again in 1971 on the Apollo XIV.  This was the flight that he hit golf balls on the moon.  He was promoted admiral before retiring from the Navy and NASA.  He then served as President of the Mercury Seven Foundation, a non-profit organization providing college science scholarships for students.  Among Shepard's many accomplishments were the Congressional Medal of Honor, NASA Distinguished Service Medals, NASA Exceptional Service Medal, Langley Award, etc.  He also served as a delegate to the 26th United Nations General Assembly.  Stephani Shannon                            References               http://www.jsc.nasa.gov             http://www.achievement.org                 http://www.space.com                           [Alan Shepard portrait]