Failure Is Not an Option”: An Oral History of Apollo 13
In April 1970, the crew of the Apollo 13 became the most talked-about people on Earth after a malfunction en route to the moon left three astronauts stranded 200,000 miles from home. It was one of the biggest media stories of the decade, with audiences around the world glued to their TV sets and radios.
That’s not how I remember it.
My dad was a waist gunner in a B-24 Liberator during World War II. He is the one we think of on Veteran’s Day, but other family members served. Uncle Pete was in the Navy, Uncle Nick was an officer, but I don’t recall which branch. My brother Chris was in the Air Force for the Vietnam War, and brother-in-law John was in the Army. Nephew Dusty was also in the Army. Mom would want me to mention that she volunteered for the USO, so really, she should get something. Remember the people who served, and listen to their stories while you can.
My dad tells some of his story:
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