Michael Collins glanced at his watch as he prepared for the National Air and Space Museum's grand opening. Already ahead of schedule, the Apollo 11 astronaut focused on ensuring that the last 36 minutes would go smoothly.
President Gerald Ford and Vice President Nelson Rockefeller found their seats quickly amid the red, white, and blue bunting that lined the outdoor stage. The Thunderbirds' flyover was brief but impressive. Collins monitored the clock as every segment of the ceremony unfolded: the Presentation of Colors took 20 seconds; the national anthem lasted about 85 seconds.
Warren Burger, chief justice of the United States and chancellor of the Smithsonian, introduced President Ford. At 11:13 am, Ford stepped to the podium. He praised the museum as a perfect gift from Americans to themselves, noting with pride that many of the aircraft and spacecraft on display were 'Made in USA.'
Ford’s speech was succinct yet significant. In his closing remarks, he quoted Thomas Jefferson, invoking dreams of an American empire of liberty, free from nobility or kings—an experiment he hoped would unfold.
