Eileen Collins came from Elmira, New York,
But her parents came from County Cork,
The first female to command and to pilot a shuttle,
A military instructor, with skills really subtle.
She piloted the Shuttle STS-63,
For which she was awarded the Harmon Trophy.
She piloted two others, commanded one more,
And passed into astronautical lore,
She retired from NASA on May Ist, 2006,
A girl who found space missions really gave her the kicks.
Caro Field Author 
I grew up around Elmira, I had no idea.
Well what do you know?!
Very cool poem for a very cool lady!!
She is, isn’t she?
Bet she was a great instructor. Women are usually better communicators… Or at least most are!
I do too!
I’ve never heard of her, but she sounds like a real inspiration!
I agree wholeheartedly
Wow, a real high flying lady. She sounds like a great role model for young women.
Doesn’t she!?
Cool, Sometimes the hero’s go without fanfare, thanks for sharing so that we know this lady
Yes, often William. This one is a pretty amazing role model!
She did it! How cool is it? I love Elmira
She is very cool!