John Glenn, U.S Senator and pioneer astronaut died surrounded by family at the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center in Columbus, according to a statement from the hospital.
In 1962, he became the first American to orbit the Earth. After a successful political career, including as U.S. Senator for his beloved home state of Ohio, he made history again by returning to space in 1998 at age 77.
Ohio Gov. John R. Kasich said in a statement that John Glenn is and will always will be Ohio's ultimate hometown hero and that his passing today is an occasion for all of them to grieve.
President Barack Obama issued a statement praising Glenn as a pioneer: "When John Glenn blasted off from Cape Canaveral atop an Atlas rocket in 1962, he lifted the hopes of of a nation. And when his Friendship 7 spacecraft splashed down a few hours later, the first American to orbit the Earth reminded us that with courage and a spirit of discovery, there's no limit to the heights we can reach together. With John's passing, our nation has lost and icon and Michelle and I have lost a friend.
President-Elect Donald Trump called Glenn "a truly great American hero," during a visit to Columbus, Ohio on Thursday: "I met him on two separate occasions. Liked him, always liked him. But he was indeed an American hero."
Former President Bill Clinton and Former Secretary Hillary Clinton released a statement mourning the loss of "a uniquely American hero and one of the finest men we have ever known."
Former President George H.W. Bush also released a statement in which he praised Glenn for bringing hope and opportunity to the nation: "By his long and able service in the United States Senate, John Glenn helped bring hope and opportunity not only to his beloved Ohio - but to every corner of America as well. Few risked more for, or showed greater dedication to, our nation, and Barbara and join our countrymen in extending our most sincere condolences to his widow Annie and the extended Glenn family. "
Senator Glenn was a decorated U.S. Marine aviator, legendary NASA astronaut, tireless public servant, and an unparalleled supporter of The John Glenn College of Public Affairs at Ohio State, where he served actively as an adjunct professor until just recently. He was an authentic hero whose courage, integrity, sacrifice and achievements inspired people, young and old, around the world.
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