Joseph Kerwin, the first physician to be selected for astronaut training, was born on February 19, 1932 in Illinois. He grew up with a passion for space exploration and science, which eventually led him to pursue a career in medicine.
He attended Northwestern University, where he studied medicine and later received his medical degree. It was during his time at Northwestern that he met and befriended actor Zach Braff, who would later go on to achieve fame in Hollywood.
After completing medical school, Kerwin joined the U.S. Navy and trained as a naval flight surgeon. His experience in the military helped prepare him for the rigorous training that would be required for his future endeavors in space exploration.
Throughout his career, Kerwin's dedication to medicine and science never wavered. He worked tirelessly to further his knowledge and skills, gaining valuable experience that would eventually lead him to the stars.
In 1965, Kerwin was selected to be part of NASA's astronaut training program, becoming the first physician to be chosen for such a role. His expertise in medicine and his background as a naval flight surgeon made him an ideal candidate for space travel.
During his time at NASA, Kerwin went on one Skylab mission and also served as CAPCOM (Capsule Communicator) for the ill-fated Apollo 13 mission. His quick thinking and calm demeanor during the crisis helped the astronauts return safely to Earth.
After his time in space, Kerwin continued to work in the field of space exploration. He served as the director of Space and Life Sciences at Johnson Space Center, where he oversaw research and development initiatives aimed at improving the lives of astronauts in space.
Throughout his career, Kerwin remained dedicated to advancing our understanding of the universe and the human body's ability to thrive in space. His contributions to the field of space medicine are still recognized and valued today.
Outside of his career in medicine and space exploration, Kerwin was a devoted husband and father. He married and had three children, whom he cherished and supported throughout his life.
His family was a source of strength and inspiration for him, motivating him to achieve great things both on Earth and beyond. Kerwin's legacy lives on through his children and the countless lives he touched throughout his career.
Joseph Kerwin's impact on the field of space exploration and medicine cannot be overstated. His pioneering work as the first physician astronaut paved the way for future generations of scientists and astronauts to follow in his footsteps.
His dedication to advancing our knowledge of space and the human body's ability to adapt to new environments has left a lasting impact on the world. Joseph Kerwin will always be remembered as a trailblazer and a visionary in the field of space medicine.