The first Alabamaian in space. Born in Birmingham, Alabama, November 21, 1933. Graduated Auburn University in 1954. Commissioned USAF through Reserve Officers Training Program (ROTC). Served as tactical fighter pilot and distinguished test pilot. Joined USAF Manned Orbital Laboratory as astronaut in 1966. Became NASA astronaut in 1969. Member of astronaut support crew for Apollo 16. Member astronaut support crew for Skylab 2,3, and 4 missions. Retired USAF 1977. Member of group which developed space shuttle entry flight control system. Pilot of space shuttle Columbia on 7-day, 112-orbit mission which terminated at Edwards AFB, California July 4, 1982. Had key assignments as crew on subsequent space shuttle missions.