State Rep. Beau Baird (R-Greencastle) presented a Sagamore of the Wabash to local retired astronaut Joseph P. Allen, Ph. D., of Crawfordsville.
Baird joined U.S. Rep. Jim Baird (R-IN) for the award presentation ceremony for Allen, 87, on Tuesday at the Wellbrooke of Crawfordville. Baird said Allen's career in public service spanned decades. A retired astronaut, Allen flew on two space shuttle missions, logging over 300 hours in space.
"Joseph Allen's achievements as an astronaut and his contributions to science and exploration are nothing short of extraordinary," Baird said. "His dedication and service to our nation, both in space and here at home, embody the Hoosier spirit and are deserving of the Sagamore of the Wabash award. It's a privilege to honor such an inspiring figure who has not only made history but continues to inspire future generations."
Born in Crawfordsville, he graduated from DePauw University and later earned a Ph.D. in physics from Yale University. His work in space helped advance satellite technology and set the stage for future missions.
"I was indeed a satellite around the Earth, which is out of this world I can tell you," Allen said. "It's a very sobering and somewhat frightening experience. You're traveling at 24,000 miles an hour in complete silence... I tell you that because that is what space is. You, the spaceship literally fall off the edge of the Earth."
Beyond his time with NASA, Allen served as a leader in the both the private sector and government, guiding companies like Space Industries International and Veridian. He's been recognized with numerous awards, including the NASA Exceptional Scientific Achievement Medal and the DePauw University Distinguished Alumnus Award. He was also inducted into the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame and Indiana Aviation Hall of Fame.
Dating back to the 1940s, the Sagamore of the Wabash award was created by former Gov. Ralph Gates. It is the highest honor the governor can bestow and is presented to distinguished Hoosiers who have made significant contributions to the state of Indiana.
More information about Allen and his career is available on NASA's website at https://www.nasa.gov/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/allen_joseph_p.pdf
