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http://edition.cnn.com/2016/12/08/health/john-glenn-dead/index.html

John Glenn, first American to orbit the Earth, dies at 95

December 8, 2016

John Glenn, a former US senator and the first American to orbit the Earth, died Thursday, according to Ohio State University. He was 95.

It was announced Wednesday that Glenn had been hospitalized "more than a week ago," according to Ohio State University spokesman Hank Wilson. He was at the James Cancer Hospital at Ohio State University, but his illness was not disclosed.

Glenn had heart valve replacement surgery in 2014.

President Barack Obama released a statement paying tribute to Glenn.

"With John's passing, our nation has lost an icon and Michelle and I have lost a friend," Obama said. "John spent his life breaking barriers, from defending our freedom as a decorated Marine Corps fighter pilot in World War II and Korea, to setting a transcontinental speed record, to becoming, at age 77, the oldest human to touch the stars. John always had the right stuff, inspiring generations of scientists, engineers and astronauts who will take us to Mars and beyond -- not just to visit, but to stay. ...

"The last of America's first astronauts has left us, but propelled by their example we know that our future here on Earth compels us to keep reaching for the heavens."

NASA Administrator Charles Bolden called Glenn a mentor, role model and dear friend.

"Glenn's extraordinary courage, intellect, patriotism and humanity were the hallmarks of a life of greatness," Bolden said. "His missions have helped make possible everything our space program has since achieved and the human missions to an asteroid and Mars that we are striving toward now."
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