Last Thursday, former National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Administrator James Beggs passed away in his home. As a graduate of the United States Naval Academy, Mr. Beggs served in the Navy as a submariner and later briefly served as NASA’s Associate Administrator of Advanced Research and Technology during the Apollo program. Following a career in both government and industry, Mr. Beggs went on to become NASA Administrator in 1981 during the beginnings of the Space Shuttle Program, a pivotal time at the space agency.
Chairwoman Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX) made the following statement.
“Throughout his life, former Administrator James Beggs ably served his country. His contributions to rebuilding NASA’s workforce and his tireless commitment to development of a Space Station helped establish our Nation’s leadership in research and operations in low Earth orbit, something that will help us to achieve the goals of returning humans to the Moon and on to Mars. Mr. Beggs’ legacy will continue to live on as we advance into the future of space exploration and discovery. I send my sincere condolences to Mr. Beggs’ family and loved ones.”