Originally Posted By: jbowman This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
Eileen Collins - born and raised in Elmira, NY is making history again. Eileen was the first female pilot of a shuttle and is now the first Shuttle Commander.
Eileen attended High School at the Elmira Free Academy and completed her associates degree at Corning Community College, in Corning N.Y. prior to her induction in to the USAF.
The whole community of Elmira, N.Y. is excited about her success.
This small city has been home to such people as:
Samuel Clemons (Mark Twain) - Married a local woman (Langdon) from Elmira and lived here during the summers. Wrote "Tom Sawyer" in a small study that was located on the Quarry Farm (Owned by the Langdon Family) and is now on display at the Elmira College. Buried in the Elmira Woodlawn Cemetery.
Hal Roach - Great Director. "Our Gang" movies. Buried in the Elmira Woodlawn Cemetery.
Ernie Davis - Great Syracuse Running Back. First Black Heisman Trophy Winner. Graduate of Elmira Free Academy. Drafted by the Cleveland Browns. (He was Jim Brown's replacement). Diagnosed and died of Leukemia never playing professional ball.
Tommy Hilfiger - Yup the famous clothes designer. Another graduate of Elmira Free Academy.
Brian Williams - NBC News Anchor. Born in Elmira and lived here briefly. We'll take credit for anything we can.
Joey Sindelar - Golf Pro. Won one of the majors in 2004. (I can't remember which one  )
We are a small but proud city. Join us in celebrating and supporting our newest Hero, Eileen Collins, who takes off into history tomorow morning as Commander of the Shuttle. We are so proud...
Originally Posted By: Nick Gromicko This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
I think you are forgetting someone… NACHI’s own Exectutive Director and war hero John Bowman is from Elmira. John’s military awards include:
Navy Distinguished Service Medal
Silver Star
Purple Heart Medal
Defense Meritorious Service Medal
Navy Commendation Medal (Two awards)
Navy Achievement Medal (Two awards)
Combat Action Ribbon (Two awards)
Navy Presidential Unit Citation
Navy Unit Commendation
Navy Meritorious Unit Commendation (Two awards)
Navy "E" Ribbon (Two awards)
Navy Good Conduct Medal (Three awards)
Navy Expeditionary Medal
National Defense Service Medal
Vietnam Service Medal
Vietnam Gallantry Cross Unit Citation
Vietnam Presidential Unit Citation
Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal
Navy Rifle Marksmanship
Navy Pistol Markmanship