Michael R. Clifford was born on October 13, 1952 in California. He grew up with a passion for aviation and space exploration, which led him to pursue a career as an astronaut. Before joining NASA, Clifford served as a U.S. Army Aviator, accumulating over 3,400 hours of flying time. His dedication to his craft and his exceptional skills as a pilot eventually caught the attention of NASA recruiters.
Clifford's journey to becoming an astronaut was not an easy one. He faced many challenges along the way, but his perseverance and determination never wavered. Through hard work and sheer determination, he earned a spot on the prestigious roster of NASA astronauts.
During his time at NASA, Clifford had the privilege of flying aboard three different space shuttles: Discovery, Endeavour, and Atlantis. His total spacewalk time amounted to an impressive 12 hours, during which he conducted various experiments and repairs outside the shuttle. Clifford's contributions to these missions were invaluable, and he was widely respected by his peers for his professionalism and dedication to his work.
One of Clifford's most memorable missions was his time aboard the Discovery, where he worked alongside fellow astronaut Ellison Onizuka. Sadly, Onizuka was later killed in the tragic Challenger mission, a loss that deeply affected Clifford and the entire NASA community.
In 1994, Clifford received a devastating diagnosis: Parkinson's Disease. This news came as a shock to him and his loved ones, but Clifford faced this new challenge with courage and grace. Despite his illness, he continued to pursue his passion for space exploration and never let Parkinson's hold him back.
His battle with Parkinson's was documented in a moving documentary that highlighted his resilience and determination in the face of adversity. Clifford's story inspired many people around the world and shed light on the strength of the human spirit.
Outside of his career as an astronaut, Clifford cherished his role as a father. His first son, Richard, was born in March 1980 and brought immeasurable joy to Clifford and his wife. Despite the demands of his job and his health struggles, Clifford always made time for his family and prioritized their well-being above all else.
Throughout his life, Michael R. Clifford exemplified what it means to overcome obstacles and pursue a dream with unwavering determination. His legacy as an astronaut, a father, and a fighter will continue to inspire future generations to reach for the stars and never give up on their aspirations.