Cmdr. Alan Shepard and his wife Louise pose - from our story 'May 5, 1961: Alan Shepard Blasts Off To Outer Space And Comes Back Alive (Photos)'

Navy Cmdr. Alan Shepard and his wife pose with Vice President Lyndon Johnson as they leave the White House for the Capitol in Washington on May 8, 1961. Approximately 250,000 persons lined downtown Washington streets to pay tribute to Shepard, first American to make a space flight. At the Capitol, Shepard and other astronauts were greeted by members of Congress. (AP Photo) Ref #: PA.8776607