The Village of New Concord is deeply saddened by the passing of Senator and former astronaut John Glenn. His many accomplishments helped to set a course for future generations of public servants in various venues. As stated by so many others, John Glenn was a true American Hero and he lived his life with honor and dignity. However, for the Village of New Concord John Glenn was so much more.
In a rural, working class community on the western edge of Appalachian Ohio John Glenn was a beacon of light. He provided inspiration to school children and University students alike by stating “…in this land a young person from this small town could aspire to anything.” John Glenn was a role model for the residents of New Concord. Not just in his accomplishments as an astronaut and a senator, but as a man who loved his wife, children, and grandchildren. Glenn worked hard his entire life, ensured that the words he spoke meant as much or more than a handshake or a signature, and was humble and gracious in all he did.
John Glenn’s legacy will live on forever in the hearts, minds and everyday lives of the residents of the New Concord Community. We would like to express our sincere gratitude to his wife, Annie Glenn, his children and grandchildren for their great loss. We would also like to thank them for their willingness to share John Glenn with the world. For this we will be forever grateful.