CHARLESTON, WV (WOAY)- West Virginia’s first astronaut Jon McBride passed away on Wednesday. Mcbride was 80 but would have turned 81 on the 14th. Even though he’s a Charleston native, he always considered Beckley his home.
Senator Joe Manchin released a statement today expressing his gratitude for McBride’s services and calling him a hero.
“Gayle and I are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of our dear friend and American hero Jon McBride. While both running for governor for our respective parties in 1996, we would debate issues and then fly together to the next event. This showed that Jon prioritized friendship and character over politics and division,” said Manchin in a press release. “As a Beckley native and West Virginia University alum, Jon inspired generations of West Virginians to see new opportunities and possibilities in space and in our skies. Whether his work was behind the scenes doing outreach for NASA or on full view as the 13th person to fly as the pilot on a space shuttle mission, Jon cemented his legacy as a leader and pioneer for our nation’s space program. Gayle and I send our deepest condolences to Jon’s family, friends and loved ones and we join all Americans and West Virginians in mourning the loss of an incredible explorer and paying homage to his service.”
