ALS on an Apollo 11 NASA card, bearing a preprinted message of thanks from the Apollo 11 crew on the cover, one page, 5.5 x 4.25, no date. Armstrong writes to a woman in Australia. In full: “Thank you for your kind letter. I’m sorry we didn’t live up to your hopes, but we were trying not to offend anyone while building international understanding. You appreciate I’m sure, that probably less than 30% of the people we met on our trip were of the Christian faith. Best wishes in your important work.” Accompanied by the original NASA transmittal envelope addressed in Armstrong’s hand. On August 13, 1969, the astronauts exited quarantine to the cheers of the American public. Parades were held in their honor in New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles on the same day. On that evening, an honorary state dinner in Los Angeles was attended by members of Congress, forty-four governors, the Chief Justice, and ambassadors from eighty-three nations. President Nixon and Vice President Spiro T. Agnew honored each astronaut with the presentation of the Presidential Medal of Freedom. This celebration was the beginning of a 45-day “Giant Leap” tour that took the astronauts to twenty-five foreign countries and included visits with such prominent leaders as Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom. Many nations would honor the first manned moon landing by issuing Apollo 11 commemorative postage stamps or coins. In fine condition overall, with a few light bends, wrinkles, paperclip marks, and light soiling to front of card. COA Scott Cornish and R&R COA..
