Welcome Back To Earth

Blue and white photograph of a man's head in a space suit with red text along the top outer edge on a white background.

On February 20, 1962, as part of Project Mercury, John Glenn became the first American to orbit the Earth and the fifth man in space. The intent of Glenn’s mission was to not only to put a man into orbit but also to observe his reactions to the environment of space and most importantly return him safely to Earth. With Glenn’s safe return he instantly became a national hero. His flight was commemorated with numerous souvenir items including buttons like this.