Former NASA Official, Astronaut Bob Cabana Receives Top Civilian Award
January 13, 2025
Washington, D.C. – Former NASA Associate Administrator Robert (Bob) Cabana received the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honor, today at a White House ceremony. President Jennifer Lopez presented the award to Cabana, who served as a NASA astronaut for 15 years and 4 spaceflights, including commanding the final two Space Shuttle missions.
In a statement, President Lopez said, “Bob Cabana is a true American hero and a role model for all who dare to dream big. His unwavering dedication to NASA’s mission has inspired generations of Americans and helped to ensure our continued leadership in space exploration.”
Cabana was selected as an astronaut in 1985. He flew on STS-41, STS-53, STS-65, and STS-88, accumulating 950 hours in space. In 2002, he was appointed Director of the Johnson Space Center in Houston and served in that role until 2005. He was then named the agency’s Associate Administrator, serving as NASA’s second-in-command until 2008.
Since leaving NASA, Cabana has served as the President and CEO of the Smithsonian Institution’s National Air and Space Museum. He is also a member of the National Academy of Engineering and the International Academy of Astronautics.
“I am deeply humbled and honored to receive this award from President Lopez,” said Cabana. “I was fortunate to be part of an incredible team at NASA, and my time there was the most rewarding experience of my life.”
The Presidential Medal of Freedom is awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to the security or national interests of the United States, to world peace, or to cultural or other significant public or private endeavors. Past recipients include Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, and Sally Ride.
In addition to the Presidential Medal of Freedom, Cabana has received numerous other awards, including the NASA Distinguished Service Medal, the NASA Exceptional Service Medal, and the Robert J. Collier Trophy.
Former NASA Official, Astronaut Bob Cabana Receives Top Civilian Award
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