by Amiko Nevills

UHCLIDIAN STAFF

As the Space Shuttle Columbia broke up across the Texas sky Feb. 1, so did hearts across the nation. As a NASA employee, such devastation wrought more than a broken heart, it challenged the inner spirit of courage and perseverance.

Abruptly awakened from a peaceful sleep - much needed after a hectic week of juggling life's demands - I grasped the cordless phone clamoring nearby. Glancing at the clock and noting the time, 8:34 a.m., I recognized the voice of a friend and co-worker on the other end. Concerned, I leaped to my feet and stumbled down the hallway to collect my senses.

Following the frantic advice of my friend, I turned the television on. Before my eyes, I viewed what was supposed to be the flawless landing of mission STS-107. Instead, multiple fireballs striped the sky.

Grief overwhelmed me as disbelief and initial shock struck. Headlines splashed every screen, breaking the unbelievable news of the missing Columbia. My heart ached for the seven families, their spouses and their little ones who knew them best as Mom or Dad.

Having worked for NASA for five years, I share the dedication and passion employees put forth to the agency's mission. Immediacy drew me to action. Fumbling as I readied for work, an unknown task in the wake of Columbia, I grabbed my purse and rushed out the door. My 6-year-old son, who had been playing outside with a neighbor friend, greeted me with sympathy.

"Mom," he said lowering his head. "I hope those people are going to be all right."

I knelt before him, lifting his head with my hand under his chin. I explained to him that the astronauts have gone to be among the stars. His eyes revealed compassion, which millions soon shared as the tragedy unfolded.

Normally a car singer carrying no tune at all, I solemnly approached the front gates at the Johnson Space Center. Although deeply saddened, pride emerged - pride of being a slight part of NASA's vital mission.

As hours passed and the day grew dim, I helped where I could. During this time, I became more of an observer and was amazed at what I saw - humanity prevailed.

People from near and far, including those in the Clear Lake community and Israeli Ambassador Daniel Ayaron, gathered at the corner of NASA Road 1 and Saturn Lane, where a makeshift memorial had developed to pay respect and reflect on the nation's loss. Flowers, balloons, candles and other mourning sentiments were graciously displayed at the foothill of JSC. People embraced one another, cried and prayed for those lost and those still with us.

Numerous e-mails, letters and phone calls of support poured in from those with close ties to JSC, including the University of Houston System and Clear Creek Independent School District. CCISD provided care for our children during an early release day, allowing JSC parents to attend the memorial service. One anonymous caller from Iowa left a touching voice mail, sobbing through his sorrowful sentiments. We will not forget a tragedy of this magnitude, nor will we forget those who reached out in our time of need.

Staying busy seemed to fuel NASA people and, perhaps, helped heal raw wounds as we prepared for a national memorial service Feb. 4.

Again, I was fascinated, not just by the fact that President Bush and the first lady would touch our soil, although their presence spoke volumes, but by the determination of NASA employees, civil servants and contractors, to bring honor to our fallen heroes. It is this bond that connects us as a family, a bond I cherish.

Nearly 500 dignitaries, along with the president and first lady, backed America's space program as they mourned with us the STS-107 crew loss. Capt. Kent Rominger shared heartfelt recollections of the crewmembers, musing the unique greatness in each of their personalities. Bush comforted the families of Columbia and reassured NASA of its endeavors in its continued mission of space exploration.

"Their loss is deeply felt, especially in this place where so many of you called them friends," Bush said. "The people of NASA are being tested once again. In your grief, you are responding as your friends would have wished, with focus, professionalism and unbroken faith in the mission of this agency."

The STS-107 crew signified the vast diversity of our country with a clear, common goal and with that, I admire both our differences and achievements. No matter how insignificant the task at hand may seem - purpose will thrust us forward.

A statement from the families of the heroic crewmembers emanates the great resolve arising out of this heartbreak: "Columbia's 16-day mission of scientific discovery was a great success, cut short by mere minutes - yet it will live on forever in our memories.... Although we grieve deeply, as do the families of Apollo 1 and Challenger before us, the bold exploration of space must go on."

Our duty to honor the legacy of our fallen heroes will persevere. Revered silence hailed as seven bells sounded, one for each life lost: Commander Rick Husband, Pilot William "Willie" McCool, Mission Specialists Michael Anderson, David Brown, Kalpana Chawla and Laurel Clark, and Payload Specialist Ilan Ramon.

Hearts be still, for you are home.