Vijayawada: Vijayawada students had a rare experience and a memorable moment in their lives when they interacted with the man who walked on the Moon, astronaut Charles Moss “Charlie” Duke.
Duke visited Vijayawada along with his wife Dorothy Meade Claiborne on Friday and interacted with the students.
Duke was the chief guest at the programme organised by the Democratic Forum for Better Society and North America Telugu Society, USA. It was an interactive session at PB Siddhartha College of Arts and Science Auditorium.
Duke told the large gathering of students that time was precious and they had one life to lead, so they should make full use of it. “Use every moment to achieve your aim,” he added.
The 83-year-old Moonwalker said that it was a blessing to participate in the programme and to share his experiences with the huge gathering of students in India.
He said that he came from a small town near San Francisco and that his father was in the army. While sharing anecdotes from his childhood days, he said he was filled with pride to introduce his father Charles, a military man, who participated in the World Wars. His father was the inspiration behind his joining the air force.
He said that he had a strong commitment to becoming an astronaut and later underwent test pilot training after graduation.
He said that he was 36-year-old when he became the 10th and youngest person to set foot on the Moon, 47 years ago. He shared with the students about the struggles he faced during the moon landing.
Speaking on this occasion, district collector said that one should be inspired listening to the ‘Moon Man’ and develop the career in the right way. He praised Astronaut Duke for accepting to share his experiences with Vijayawada Students
