On this day in 1965, Jackson, MI native Brigadier General James McDivitt (USAF, Ret.)

On this day in 1965, Jackson, MI native Brigadier General James McDivitt (USAF, Ret.) and Ed White launched on the second manned mission of the Gemini program, Gemini IV.  The early astronauts did not want the title “Co-Pilot”, so McDivitt served as Command Pilot while White served as Pilot.

Gemini IV launched from Cape Kennedy’s Launch Complex 19 at 10:15am EDT.  After McDivitt had depressurized the cabin, White opened his hatch at 2:34pm EDT.  Two minutes later he stood up out of his seat, beginning the first American extravehicular activity (EVA, or spacewalk).  After spending 23 minutes outside on a 25 foot tether, White was ordered back in before the spacecraft passed out of communications and into darkness.  With assistance from McDivitt, White closed his hatch at 3:10pm and the cabin was repressurized. 

The first photo shows McDivitt (front) and White (rear) walking up the ramp at the launch pad before riding the elevator to the top.  The second photo shows the launch of Gemini IV.  McDivitt took the third photo of White during his spacewalk. Gen. McDivitt’s Air Force uniform, astronaut flightsuit and other items he has donated can be seen at Michigan’s Military and Space Heroes Museum 10am-5pm daily.  Honor.  Respect.  Remember.