Neil Armstrong Cause of Death Released After First Man on Moon Dies at 82

The first man to walk on the moon, Neil Armstrong, is dead at the age of 82. His family has released his cause of death in the wake of the bad news.

On July 20, 1969, Armstrong made history when he stepped on the moon. He famously said, "that's one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind." Millions of people heard the live broadcast either on TV or radio that day. Those who were not alive have heard the famous words many times since then.

Armstrong's cause of death was complications from cardiovascular surgery. His family released a statement that said, "We are heartbroken to share the news that Neil Armstrong has passed away following complications resulting from cardiovascular procedures. Neil was our loving husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend."

No doubt the world is heartbroken along with them. This man was truly a national hero. He remained humble and private to the end despite the fame he achieved by piloting Apollo 11.

President Barack Obama got it correct when he said that Armstrong was one of "the greatest American heroes—not just of his time, but of all time.''

On learning of the sobering news, President Obama released a statement that summed up well just what this man meant to an entire generation and to those generations that came after.

"When he and his fellow crew members lifted off aboard Apollo 11 in 1969, they carried with them the aspirations of an entire nation. They set out to show the world that the American spirit can see beyond what seems unimaginable—that with enough drive and ingenuity, anything is possible. And when Neil stepped foot on the surface of the moon for the first time, he delivered a moment of human achievement that will never be forgotten."

Were you alive to see the moon landing on TV? If not, have you watched it? Refresh your memory of that great occasion by watching the first moon landing video below.

If you want to know what you can do to help honor this American hero's memory, simply follow the wishes of his family. They asked,

"For those who may ask what they can do to honor Neil, we have a simple request. Honor his example of service, accomplishment and modesty, and the next time you walk outside on a clear night and see the moon smiling down at you, think of Neil Armstrong and give him a wink."