Robert L. Hinshaw Poet Rhyme

Big Bird's Final Flight

(To commemorate the final flight of the Space Shuttle Discovery)

A majestic bird flared for a picture perfect landing on this historic day.
Its tires gently kissed the welcoming earth in a magnificent display!
With 39 missions and 5000 earth orbits, Discovery was put to the test!
Today, she returned home from her final flight for a well-deserved rest!

In August of 1984 she flexed her wings for her first giant leap into space!
Roaring flame lit her tail leaving a graceful contrail as she left earth's face!
With a thunderous blast, Discovery loosed the fettering bonds of earth.
Her many creators wished her Godspeed for a safe return to her berth!

Mere mortals' exploration of The Creator's universe is ever expanding,
To define the mysteries of space and add to humankind's understanding.
Brave astronauts comprised her crew with both men and women commanding.
The performance of those fearless heroes and Discovery was truly outstanding!

Ah! The splendid view the crews had of the wondrous handiwork of God!
The planets, moon, stars, the vast celestial dome seen from their tiny pod;
The beauty of their beckoning earthly home as in the realm of space they flew;
Beautiful and wonderful things that earth-bound dwellers will never view!

'Tis fitting that this stalwart old workhorse of America's space shuttle fleet,
Will repose nigh the Wright Brothers frail craft in the nation's seat.
We salute you, Discovery!  Your mission is ended!  You did marvelous things!
We can almost sense a satisfied sigh as you proudly fold your wings!

Robert L. Hinshaw, CMSgt, USAF, Retired
© All Rights Reserved - 9 March 2011

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Linda-Marie Sweetheart March 11, 2011 at 5:32 AM Happy weekend my friend.. judging my contest this weekend too.. so enjoy ...luv..

Carolyn Devonshire March 10, 2011 at 3:24 PM I hate to see the space shuttle launches put on hold, Bob. There's so much out there to explore! You can even see the launches from the beach here. Surely there is more to discover out in space and I do envy the view the astronauts had. Let's also salute the crew of Challenger. Great write on Discovery, my friend. Love, Carolyn

Linda-Marie Sweetheart March 10, 2011 at 9:19 AM Great history lesson in your words Bob and two more yet to take their last flights as of yesterday's newscast my friend.. a worthy tribute to the space endeavors of our dynamic country luv..

Mitch White March 10, 2011 at 8:37 AM Great tribute BOB! You never leave out the true justice in your writes. Smiles

Ralph Taylor March 10, 2011 at 8:27 AM Hi, Bob. Got some bad news on Una. Contact me on soup mail. I can't initiate soup mail but can answer if someone contacts me. Thanks Ralph.

Ralph Taylor March 10, 2011 at 7:46 AM Outstanding historical tribute, my friend. Great piece. Kudos to those Pioneers and to you for this awesome write. You guys have a great weekend. All the best. Una/Ralph

Nette Onclaud March 10, 2011 at 4:50 AM a thorough and brilliant expo of the universe's expanse with historical touches, robert! one of the century's higlights! well-done stuff..:) huggs, nette

Joyce Johnson March 9, 2011 at 9:01 PM A wonderful poem about a marvelous accomplishment. The 20th century was truly an amazing century and we can claim it as our own. Thanks for a good read Robert. Love, Joyce