During Buzz Aldrin\u27s remarks at the twentieth anniversary of the Apollo 11 liftoff last July r he indicated that this country was not yet ready to commit to a manned mission to Mars* I contend that to put off this commitment or any commitment only lessens the chances of ever doing it.
The United States space program, like the rest of the american industrial complex is at a very critical point. Long range decisions must be made for it to remain in a competitive position worldwide. It must be remembered that not to decide is to decide . During the past thirty years the United States space industry has achieved a level of success which made it the envy of the world. Will the next thirty years be a continuation of that tradition or will we be forced out of the industry by better prepared competition? A comprehensive plan, developed and executed with an unwaiving.dedication will maintain our position. The roles both education and industry play in this plan is the key to its success and must be fully developed
