Quick Info
| Details | |
|---|---|
| Name | John Glenn |
| Current Age | 95 (at time of death) |
| Occupation(s) | Astronaut, Senator |
| Date of Birth | July 18, 1921 |
| Date of Death | December 8, 2016 |
| Place of Birth | Cambridge, Ohio |
| Nationality | American |
| Parents | John Herschel Glenn Sr., Teresa Glenn |
| Spouse | Annie Glenn |
| Children | John David Glenn, Carolyn Ann Glenn |
| Net Worth (2024) | $5 million |
| Source of Wealth | Astronaut, Senator |
| Ethnicity | Caucasian |
| Height | 5'10" |
| Notable Works | First American to orbit Earth |
Early Life and Education
Born on July 18, 1921, in Cambridge, Ohio, John Glenn was the son of John Herschel Glenn Sr. and Teresa Glenn. Growing up in a small town, Glenn developed a strong work ethic and a passion for aviation from a young age. He attended New Concord High School and later enrolled at Muskingum College, where he studied engineering.
Military Career and Astronaut Training
Glenn's military career began when he joined the Naval Aviation Cadet Program during World War II. He served as a fighter pilot in both WWII and the Korean War, earning numerous medals for his bravery and skill. In 1959, Glenn was selected as one of the original seven astronauts for NASA's Project Mercury, the United States' first human spaceflight program.
Historic Spaceflight
On February 20, 1962, John Glenn made history by becoming the first American to orbit the Earth aboard the Friendship 7 spacecraft. His successful mission made him a national hero and a symbol of American ingenuity and courage during the Space Race with the Soviet Union.
Political Career and Legacy
After retiring from NASA, Glenn pursued a career in politics and was elected as a U.S. Senator from Ohio, serving from 1974 to 1999. He continued to advocate for space exploration and scientific advancement throughout his political career. Glenn's legacy as both an astronaut and a senator is marked by his dedication to public service and his unwavering commitment to the betterment of society.
Personal Life and Later Years
John Glenn was married to Annie Glenn for 73 years until his passing on December 8, 2016. They had two children, John David Glenn and Carolyn Ann Glenn. Despite his many achievements, Glenn remained humble and grounded, always emphasizing the importance of teamwork and perseverance.
Net Worth and Financial Insights
As of 2024, John Glenn's net worth is estimated to be $5 million. His wealth primarily stems from his careers as an astronaut and senator, as well as from various endorsements and public appearances. Glenn's investments in education and scientific research also contributed to his financial success.
References
- NASA. "John Glenn Biography." https://www.nasa.gov/content/john-glenn-biography
- The New York Times. "John Glenn, American Hero of the Space Age, Dies at 95." https://www.nytimes.com/2016/12/08/us/john-glenn-dies.html