The family of Neil Armstrong, the first man to walk on the moon, says he has died at age 82.
A statement from the family says he died following complications resulting from cardiovascular procedures. It doesn't say where he died.
Armstrong commanded the Apollo 11 spacecraft that landed on the moon July 20, 1969. He radioed back to Earth the historic news of "one giant leap for mankind."
Armstrong and fellow astronaut Edwin "Buzz" Aldrin spent nearly three hours walking on the moon, collecting samples, conducting experiments and taking photographs. In all, 12 Americans walked on the moon from 1969 to 1972.
Family members released a statement on Saturday afternoon that asked for those to honor Armstrong by remembering his accomplishments and service.
"For those who may ask what they can do to honor Neil, we have a simple request. Honor his example of service, accomplishment and modesty, and the next time you walk outside on a clear night and see the moon smiling down at you, think of Neil Armstrong and give him a wink.”
The manager at the Neil Armstrong Air and Space Museum in his hometown of Wapakoneta, Ohio, told 10TV News reporter Maureen Kocot what it was like when he heard the news of Armstrong's passing.
"Shock and sadness. A general sense of disbelief. And it was an emotional moment when I came in and talked to the staff. You could tell people were visibly saddened," Chris Benton said.
Stay with 10TV and 10TV.com for additional information.
Comments