Robert Springer
By William D.Hinsch
Robert Springer
From a small town in Ohio to the boundless realms of space, Robert Springer’s biography narrates an extraordinary journey of courage, seizing opportunities, and unwavering dedication. His tenet to grasp every chance has led him to achieve remarkable milestones, both as a military hero and as a pioneering astronaut.
Born in St. Louis, Missouri but raised in Ashland, Ohio, Springer’s early life was devoid of astronauts to aspire to. However, his ambition and thirst for challenge led him from Ashland High School to the prestigious halls of the United States Naval Academy, and later to the U.S. Naval Postgraduate School, where he earned his Master of Science in operations research and systems analysis.
Springer’s military service is marked by valor and skill. As a pilot, he completed 300 combat missions in Vietnam and flew 250 helicopter missions as an advisor to the Republic of Korea’s Military Corps. His pursuit of excellence continued as he attended the Navy Fighter Weapons School and later the U.S. Navy Test Pilot School, testing over twenty types of aircraft.
His accolades in the military are numerous, including the Defense Distinguished Service Medal and the Navy Distinguished Flying Cross, among others. Springer’s transition from military service to NASA was almost serendipitous, spurred by a friend who recognized his potential and encouraged him to apply.
Selected by NASA in May 1980, Springer’s contributions were significant, involving him in the STS-3 Columbia Space Shuttle test flight, remote manipulator system development, and Mission Control operations for seven flights. His resilience and teamwork were further tested in the aftermath of the Challenger disaster, which claimed the life of his close friend and fellow astronaut.
Springer’s space missions on the Discovery and Atlantis shuttles were not only technical achievements but also contributions to science, environmental awareness, and national defense. His work on the Atlantis mission provided critical intelligence for Operation Desert Storm, for which he was awarded the Intelligence Achievement Medal.