America Mourns Passing of Neil Armstrong, First Man on the Moon

After being an American icon since his accomplishment in 1969, it is with extreme sadness to report thatNeil Armstrong has died.

The legendary astronaut was reportedly recovering from heart surgery in Cincinnati, Ohio at the time of his passing. He was 82 years old. In a statement to ABC News, Neil's family wrote, "We are heartbroken to share the news that Neil Armstrong has passed away following complications resulting from cardiovascular procedures."

The space icon had undergone bypass surgery earlier this month to relieve blocked coronary arteries, according to his family and close friends. Following the operation, those in Armstrong's inner circle had been under the impression that he was recovering soundly, reports the New York Times. Therefore news of his death came as a surprise to those who knew him best, including his fellow Apollo astronauts.

Armstrong shot to stardom and simultaneously made history when he became the first person to touch foot on the moon on July 20, 1969 after his spacecraft Apollo 11 reached its surface.

His family added, "While we mourn the loss of a very good man, we also celebrate his remarkable life and hope that it serves as an example to young people around the world to work hard to make their dreams come true, to be willing to explore and push the limits, and to selflessly serve a cause greater than themselves. 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."

His famous words "That's one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind," will always be remembered. 

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