Marine Forces Reserve would like to take a moment to recognize the example and inspiration Col. John Glenn Jr. – astronaut, senator, and Marine -  left with us after his passing on Dec. 8, 2016.

As a Marine Aviator, Col. Glenn earned some of the highest awards for bravery and combat from the air, while further “pushing the envelope” and setting records when jet aviation was just coming out of its infancy.

As the only Marine astronaut in the Mercury program, he inspired the country by becoming the first American to orbit the Earth, and manually guiding his spacecraft through re-entry when its automatic control systems failed.

After his time in the Marine Corps, he continued to serve as a Senator from Ohio, standing up for his beliefs and fighting for the future of our country.

Our deepest condolences go out to the family and friends of Col. Glenn. His example will be followed for generations.