Theodore Freeman became the first member of the NASA Astronaut Corps to die in the line of duty when his T-38A jet trainer crashed on October 31, 1964. A veteran pilot with over 3,300 flight hours, he had been selected for the space program just one year prior to the fatal accident at Ellington Air Force Base.
Early Development and Education
Born in 1930 in Haverford, Pennsylvania, Freeman grew up in Lewes, Delaware. By age 16, he earned his pilot's license through part-time work at a local airport. After high school, he attended the University of Delaware before securing an appointment to the United States Naval Academy. He graduated with the Class of 1953, later obtaining a Master of Science in aeronautical engineering from the University of Michigan in 1960.
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Freeman joined the U.S. Air Force, earning his pilot wings in February 1955. Throughout his military tenure, he served in the Pacific and at various bases in Texas, Nevada, and California. He eventually attained the rank of captain. As a graduate of the Experimental Flight Test Pilot School and the Aerospace Research Pilot School, he focused on performance and stability testing.
NASA Assignment and Fatal Crash
In October 1963, NASA selected Freeman as part of its third group of astronauts. He contributed to the development of booster rockets before his death. While returning from training in St. Louis, a bird strike—reportedly a goose—damaged his T-38A air intake during the final approach to Houston. He ejected from the aircraft at a low altitude and horizontal angle, dying upon impact with the ground.
Commemoration and Legacy
Freeman was buried at Arlington National Cemetery with full military honors. His name remains attached to several public sites, including a branch library in the Harris County Public Library system and an artificial island in Long Beach Harbor. Additionally, a highway in Lewes, Delaware, and a plaque at the Cape May–Lewes Ferry terminal serve as formal reminders of his career.
Fast facts
- Born: 1930, Haverford
- Died: 1964, Houston
- Education: United States Naval Academy, University of Michigan
- Military Rank: Captain
- Flight Hours: Over 3,300
- NASA Selection: October 1963
- Burial Site: Arlington National Cemetery
Questions readers ask
What caused the death of Theodore Freeman?
He died following a bird strike during a flight in a T-38A jet, which caused the engine to flame out near Ellington Air Force Base.
Was he ever in space?
No, he died in 1964 before flying on any space missions.
Achievements
- Affiliated with National Aeronautics and Space Administration
- Educated at University of Michigan, U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School and University of Delaware
- Worked as military officer, aircraft pilot and astronaut
