What launch anniversary would be complete without the requisite NASA film from the era about the mission. In this case, this hour long video on Mercury-Atlas 6, John Glenn’s historic first Earth orbit by an American in the Friendship 7 spacecraft.
55 Years Ago: The Flight Of Friendship 7
As I said, this is an hour long video, and it somewhat drags on with buildup, but that long, detailed buildup to the actual launch and flight shows just how important this flight was to everyone, both those involved and to the American people. An American had orbited the Earth, and we were damn proud of that accomplishment.
As always, enjoy!