One of the first things I learned in the Marine Corps is that any military mission has to be defined as precisely as you can possibly define it, and then you size the force and equipment force to accomplish that mission without fail.
John GlennRead
An end of something means the beginning of something else, and I don't think that something else is going to be the death of the manned space program.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Change and transformation are a natural part of progress, often leading to new beginnings.
In this quote, John Glenn emphasizes that the conclusion of one phase, such as the manned space program, should not be viewed as the end, but rather as a transition into a new era of exploration and innovation. It highlights the importance of embracing change and the notion that every ending is accompanied by the potential for a new beginning.
Themes
ChangeBeginningSpaceTransitionInnovation
In practice
Example use cases
This quote could be used in a graduation speech to inspire students about the opportunities that lie ahead.
More from John Glenn
All quotes βI'm not interested in my legacy. I made up a word: 'live-acy.' I'm more interested in living.
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Old folks have dreams and ambitions too, like everybody else. Don't sit on a couch someplace.
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By its very definition, civic responsibility means taking a healthy role in the life of one's community. That means that classroom lessons should be complemented by work outside the classroom. Service-learning does just that, tying community service to academic learning.
John GlennRead
As I hurtled through space, one thought kept crossing my mind - every part of this rocket was supplied by the lowest bidder.
John GlennRead
I was hooked on aviation, made model airplanes, and never thought I would be able to fly myself. It cost too much. But then World War II came along and changed all that.
John GlennRead
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