ET-138 Roll Out Party

Today, the final External Tank that is scheduled to fly into space rolled to the barge that will take ET-138 down the Mississippi Rive to the Gulf then to KSC. Michoud threw a big party to commemorate  the successful deliveries of ETs over the last 37yrs. Prior to the roll out, there were a few speakers. Then the Storyville Stompers Brass Band lead the 2nd line and hundreds of handkerchief-waving employees following the ET as it was transported one mile to the Michoud barge dock.  Most employees were not allowed to walk to the barge so I don't have any photos of it.

This tank is special not only because it is the last ET but because my mom is the Hard ware Specific Manager (Missile Mom) for ET-138.  She put in a lot of hard work and time into this, her final tank.  My mom has worked her at MAF for 25 yrs.  The ET has been her life for a long time. I know today was bitter sweet.

My mom, her tank, and Diane

Astronaut Mark Kelly Speaking at the ceremony prior to Roll Out

ET-138 Rolling Down Saturn Blvd

Storyville Stompers

The tank will all the employees 2nd lining behind. 

I was lucky enough to be able to walk in front with my mom, Diane and the Transportation guys.

While it has been a few years since I worked on the ET program, I am proud to say that I did. I am (as are many other people) sad to see the end of the Space Shuttle. I am even sadder that there is and may never be a replacement vehicle.

Good Bye ET-138 have a safe barge ride and a safe Mission.

[Update: Check out the video on the LM webpage. My photography/communications friends at work put it together. They did an amazing job.]