Walter Cronkite's Mission Is Over

Walter Cronkite, Iconic Anchorman, Dies, NY Times
“For his exhaustive and enthusiastic coverage of NASA, Mr. Cronkite was sometimes called “the eighth astronaut.” During the first moon landing in 1969, Mr. Cronkite “was on the air for 27 of the 30 hours that Apollo 11 took to complete its mission,” The Museum of Broadcast Communications notes.”
NASA Mourns The Death of Walter Cronkite
“The following is a statement from NASA Administrator Charles Bolden on the death of veteran journalist Walter Cronkite. “It is with great sadness that the NASA family learned of Walter Cronkite’s passing. He led the transition from print and radio reporting to the juggernaut that became television journalism. His insight and integrity were unparalleled, and his compassion helped America make it through some of the most tragic and trying times of the 20th century. …”
Neil Armstrong Statement on the Death of Walter Cronkite
“Walter Cronkite seemed to enjoy the highest of ratings. He had a passion for human space exploration, an enthusiasm that was contagious, and the trust of his audience. He will be missed.”
Keith’s update: Everyone has Walter Cronkite memories and stories. Like everyone who was alive 40 years ago, to me his words seemed to be the official narrative of America’s space program. On a personal note, although I never met him, I did have the unique honor of being introduced by him on air as “the sign language interpreter” as I stood interpreting for speakers on the podium of the Democratic National Convention in 1980 in New York at Madison Square Garden. Of course, I was a space geek back then so this intro by Cronkite made an already cool experience doubly cool.
That he died amidst the 40th anniversay of the Moon landing is indeed sad yet its almost as if he held on – just for this special moment. And (I guess) “that’s the way it is”.
Your thoughts?