For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
August 26, 2003
Statement by the President
Today the Columbia Accident Investigation Board released its report
on the tragic accident that claimed the lives of seven brave
astronauts. These men and women assumed great risk in service to all
humanity. On behalf of a grateful Nation, I once again recognize their
sacrifices and those of their loved ones. Their service will never be
forgotten.
Our Nation also owes its appreciation to Admiral Harold Gehman,
Jr. (retired) as well as the other 12 members of the Columbia Accident
Investigation Board. As Board Chair, Admiral Gehman and his team have
worked tirelessly over the past seven months conducting an exhaustive
review of the circumstances surrounding this accident. The next steps
for NASA under Sean O'Keefe's leadership must be determined after a
thorough review of the entire report, including its recommendations.
Our journey into space will go on. The work of the crew of the
Columbia and the heroic explorers who traveled before them will
continue.
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