Lot 568
Apollo Program, 1949, Theodore (Ted) Freeman Midshipman's Appointment. As issued by the US Navy Department. This 1949 document reads: By direction of the President of the United States, you are hereby appointed a Midshipman in the United States Navy…". There is a large negative seal at left and the document is signed by Francis P. Matthews, Secretary of the Navy. Freeman went on to become an astronaut (1963, Group 3 Astronaut Candidates) and a Captain in the Air Force. He was killed in the crash of his T-38 jet in October 1964 when a goose smashed through the cockpit canopy of his trainer. To avoid the plane crashing into residential housing near Houston, Freeman tried to steer toward Ellington AFB. By the time he was able to eject, he was too close to the ground for his parachute to open properly.His loss was felt strongly by NASA and his fellow astronauts. This early document chronicles the beginning of his journey into history.
Estimated Value $250 - 350.
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| Realized $72 |
