Political figures react to Neil Armstrong's death
(CNN) - Major political figures, including President Barack Obama and presumptive Republican presidential nominee Mitt Romney, reacted on Saturday to the death of Neil Armstrong, the first man to walk on the moon.
President Barack Obama
"Michelle and I were deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Neil Armstrong. Neil was among the greatest of American heroes – not just of his time, but of all time. When he and his fellow crew members lifted off aboard Apollo 11 in 1969, they carried with them the aspirations of an entire nation. They set out to show the world that the American spirit can see beyond what seems unimaginable – that with enough drive and ingenuity, anything is possible. And when Neil stepped foot on the surface of the moon for the first time, he delivered a moment of human achievement that will never be forgotten.
"Today, Neil's spirit of discovery lives on in all the men and women who have devoted their lives to exploring the unknown – including those who are ensuring that we reach higher and go further in space. That legacy will endure – sparked by a man who taught us the enormous power of one small step."
Mitt Romney, Republican presidential candidate
“Neil Armstrong today takes his place in the hall of heroes. With courage unmeasured and unbounded love for his country, he walked where man had never walked before. The moon will miss its first son of earth. I met and spoke with Neil Armstrong just a few weeks ago–his passion for space, science and discovery, and his devotion to America will inspire me through my lifetime.”
Gov. Rob Portman, Republican of Ohio
"Neil Armstrong was a true American hero, both because of his extraordinary service to his country and the honorable life he led. He was a groundbreaking Naval aviator and the world's most famous astronaut, but it was his humble and gracious response to the torrent of attention that followed his accomplishments that may have set him apart most. For my family and me, he was a dear friend whose ready smile, quick wit and thoughtful gestures will be greatly missed. Our love and prayers go to his wife, Carol, and the other members of his wonderful family."
House Speaker John Boehner
“A true hero has returned to the Heavens to which he once flew. Neil Armstrong blazed trails not just for America, but for all of mankind. He inspired generations of boys and girls worldwide not just through his monumental feat, but with the humility and grace with which he carried himself to the end. Ohio has lost one of her proudest sons. Humanity has gained a legend.”
Reince Priebus, Republican National Committee chairman, via Twitter
"Rest in peace Neil Armstrong - thank you for allowing us all to dream and for your giant leap for mankind"
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Good night ARMSTRONG the great EXPLORER of our generation.
R.I.P, Mr. Armstrong. You were one of those who not only dared to dream, you were lucky enough to live your dream. Thank you!
Neil Armstrong! How do I describe thee? Out of this world!
I remember that day just like it was yesterday...doesn't seem that long ago. May he indeed rest in peace. And it is really odd but you know there are still many who think (my late grandfather being one of them) that man NEVER actually wen to the moon and it was all done on a sound stage in Burbank, Ca. Well Mr. Armstrong just took the most giant step of all.
The Apollo program was, by far, the greatest acheivement in the history of mankind. RIP Neil Armstrong.
An American hero, and fulfilling the dream of a great President, JFK.
Let's not forget though his words on the Moon, we come in peace for all mankind.
Now let's see some new dreams of exploration and peace instead of budget cuts for science and increased funding for defense.
mankind lost what will be talked about throughout mankinds history. Ever history text book will report that moment. I am honored to living when he was. Considering it took over 4 billion years for a life form to step on another celestial body from earth. He will forever be the first. AMAZING! !
Great human being for all world to remember for first ever moon landing. He will never be forgot on.
We have lost a pioneer. I would hope that the first city on the moon be built near his first steps and bear his name. That would be fitting tribute.
Is a great hero indeed, may his soul rest in peace. Davidson from Nigeria
Rest in peace amstrong, ur brave step to d moon has taught me to always believe in my self
r.i.p
Neil Armstrong has set the pace for other scientist to follow and memories will not leave me whenever i look up to the moon.
NEIL is a true hero i say may his gentle soul rest in peace AMEN
Neil Armstrong,the legend of our time. May your soul rest in perfect peace. Amen.
One thousand, ten thousand, one million years from now, man will look back through history and identify one singular moment in time that marked the beginning of mankind's transition from a terrestrial species to one that has traveled the farthest reaches of the Universe. That moment belongs to Neil Armstrong, and the gallant crew of Apollo 11. He will be remembered until the end of time.
Earth will miss the absence of a great HERO who has left a laudable legacy.May his soul R.I.P.
He was the man, he was THE hero of my childhood. RIP.
History remembered kings not warrios,I consider Neil as a king.
I feel very sad to loose someone like that , we could have do much more from him, rest in peace amstron.
Neil Armstrong was a patriotic revolutionarist that contribute greatly to the developed state of science and technology.He was a mentor to mentors.
We should commemorate his historic accomplishment with a national holiday. August could use one, Mr. Armstrong, the United States, and space exploration, at large, all deserve one.
One small loss of a man.. A giant loss for mankind
.......nevertheless huge loss to USA treasury, a very gigantic GAIN to American spirit, human endeavor......great man loss is world loss!!!