Buzz Aldrin's life story is a veritable saga of the human spirit, brimming with courage, unbridled curiosity, and limitless ambition. As Editor-in-Chief, it gives me profound joy to share his awe-inspiring American journey with our readers.
Buzz's life, rich in groundbreaking milestones, recently added yet another series of impressive feats. On May 5, 2023, at a solemn ceremony at the Los Angeles Air Force Base in California, Buzz was conferred with the honorary rank of Brigadier General, or one-star officer, in the U.S. Air Force. Bestowed by U.S. Space Force Lt. Gen. Michael Guetlein, commander of Space Systems Command, and championed by Rep. Ken Calvert and Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall III, among others, this honor arrived over half a century after Aldrin's retirement from the Air Force, underlining the enduring significance of his contributions. On the same day, Buzz Aldrin was also named the official Space Force Honorary Guardian.
Buzz's 21 years of service, from his valiant days as a Korean War fighter pilot, through his service as flight commander in W. Germany on border patrol and nuclear alert, to his legendary role as an astronaut and his influential contributions to space exploration, have firmly etched his name in the annals of history as an inspiration and a pathfinder.
Earlier this year, Dr. Aldrin delighted us by announcing his marriage to Dr. Anca Faur on his 93rd birthday, January 20th, the day he was also honored by the Living Legends of Aviation. Adding to the plethora of milestones this year, on February 23rd, Aldrin gave the opening address at the National Space Council’s Users Advisory Group.
I hold Buzz's wife, Anca, in the highest regard, a sentiment deep-rooted in profound admiration and respect. Buzz's affection for Anca is unmistakable, a powerful fusion of intellectual, emotional, and physical ties. The depth of Anca's feelings for Buzz is equally apparent, casting them as a perfectly matched duo. The harmonious unity they share further enriches the awe-inspiring narrative of Buzz Aldrin's extraordinary life.
Without a shadow of doubt, he is the most fascinating mentor I've ever had the privilege to learn from. The connection that Buzz and I share, rooted in our joint commitment to Freemasonry, transcends typical friendship. Our shared Masonic status, with Buzz revered as a 33rd degree Mason and myself a step behind at the 32nd degree, nurtures a profound appreciation for the ideals of self-betterment, community contribution, and ethical probity championed by this Fraternity.
Amidst the many accolades, Aldrin's extraordinary career shines through. His relentless commitment to service, unending advocacy for space exploration, and the legacy of the Apollo 11 Lunar Module Pilot, West Point military engineer, and MIT astronautics Sc.D. aerospace engineer extend from our home planet to the moon and have significantly broadened our comprehension of the cosmos.
In recognition of his exceptional accomplishments, I am immensely proud to present Buzz Aldrin with the Monaco 40 over 40 Award. This award transcends the acknowledgment of his past achievements, honoring his enduring passion and unwavering dedication that continue to inspire us all.
Buzz, as your friend and on behalf of this publication, I am deeply privileged to celebrate your well-deserved recognition. Thank you for your service, for your bravery, and for your ever-burning curiosity. To you, our very own Guardian of the Galaxy, here's to many more years of reaching for the stars and inspiring us to do the same.