Gilnockie event curtailed, but family’s visit a great success
Neil Armstrong’s landing on the Moon was far from perfect.
Piloting the fragile Eagle module as it hurtled just feet above the surface, the former test pilot realised the proposed landing site was too rocky and was forced to use all his flying skills in order to touch down safely with just seconds to spare.
And there was something of the Armstrong never-say-die spirit in evidence last weekend, as the astronaut’s surviving family touched down in Langholm.
Led by his sons, Rick and Mark, the 10-strong American party were visiting the Muckle Toon to celebrate the 50th anniversary of his own visit in 1972.
For months beforehand, the Langholm Alliance had been planning the big day, booking pipe bands and Reiver re-enactment groups for a spectacular display at Gilnockie Tower.
But then came news of the Queen’s death. And suddenly, like Neil on the Moon, plans had to change.
Come back next week for more coverage on the Armstrong family’s visit.
Read more in this week’s E&L available at your Newsagent or available online by subscription. Click HERE
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