Communication Professor's Reaction to Ronald Reagan's Challenger Shuttle Speech

[@alexanderlyon]

Get a Free pdf download to help you speak confidently: www.alexanderlyon.com/free-resources

[@jpburnez5655]

President Reagan was an AMAZING SPEAKER, A TRUE PATRIOT AND ONE OF THE GREATEST COMMANDERS IN CHIEF!!!!! RIP PRESIDENT REAGAN YOU ARE TRULY MISSED!!!! HOOOAAHHH!!!! 🙏🏼🇺🇲🦅

[@Christopher_Bachm]

How to pull the wool by the master... Pathetic!

[@bradleysmall2230]

That surly bonds of earth made me tear up that day and was known to reagan and peggy noonan put that in his speech. Reagan called peggy the next day about the speech and asked how she knew he knew that line also from shakespere.. it was a coincidence that they both knew it and reagan congradulated her.. She said on meet the press the writers learned the man reagan and were told by carters speech writers that they did not know the man carter so well and it was hard to connect with him...the speech made me feel better that day.....

[@dgc0120]

@@Christopher_Bachm Truly spoken by someone who neither lived through his Presidency nor has the decency or integrity to accurately assess his achievements both within and outside that Office. Just to remind you: he won both of his elections OVERWHELMINGLY, both popularly and electorally. (That meant a 49 state win!) That was a time that was far better for America and the world because he, along with Margaret Thatcher and Pope John Paul 2, formed an alliance that was utterly unapologetic in advocating for freedom, especially against a truly despotic Soviet Union. We would be better served to have leaders like him, as opposed to the soulless baby booming grifters and petulant, intolerant millennials we have had since!

[@tony6834-h6h]

I Admire Ronald Reagan, one of the best Presidents to have been Inaugurated, he certainly had the Russians on the backfoot most of the time AND got Gorby to the table in a very intimate way, without him, where would the World be now ??

[@kingcurmudgeon8685]

Don’t care what side of the aisle you’re on. Reagan was one of the best speechgivers of all time. And looking back he proved to be quite prophetic.

[@Rootword7]

Well he was an actor.

[@netcowboy]

Let’s not forget Peggy Noonan wrote the speech.

[@stevew2996]

@@Rootword7 All politicians are. Some are just better than others.

[@ivansanta-maria1328]

And I think he was one of the greatest Republican presidents we ever had they just don't make them like that anymore one of the last true president they're all puppets now

[@pinth]

Best speechgiver of all time? Reagan is nothing compared to Hitlr.

[@davidnikoloff3211]

When the man was shot he joked with his doctors saying he should have ducked and asking if they were Republicans. His surgeon responded, “Today we are all Republicans Mr President.” Great man.

[@gbonkers666]

When he was shot, the guy actually walked into the ER with a bullet less than 10 cm from his heart....that's ballsy, man...real ballsy...

[@moremoney2]

I remember seeing him speak at large arena in Bowling Green KY sometime after he had recovered from his gunshot wound. During the middle of his speech two balloons popped simultaneously. He paused, then said; “You missed me.” Hilarious laughter broke out everywhere.

[@McPh1741]

I like when we woke up after surgery and asked “Anybody find out what that guy’s beef was?”

[@ArdentLion]

His first words to his wife were, "Honey, I forgot to duck."

[@dr.pendyke4887]

We went on to learn that we actually came within minutes of losing our President that day, the surgery was tense and not easy.

[@ohmightywez]

People always mention his career as an actor, and yes that gives him fluency and pacing. But the emotion, the sincerity, the pride, the connection, his real devotion to the people and to our country are what made him the Great Communicator.

[@alexanderlyon]

Yes, agreed.

[@mjjm6220]

Lets get real. That entire speach was written by someone else. Those were not his own words. Reagan had a photographic memory. He could read an entire script and memorize 100%. But according to James Garner, Reagan could not put together two complete sentences of his own words.

[@richardlug6139]

@@mjjm6220 Well I think you should look up some interviews he did, thru out his life, and you will find you are mistaken about his ability to say complete sentences.. BTW I never was a RR fan.

[@rafal2959]

@@mjjm6220 A guy who hated Reagan, called him dumb. Amazing. I'm shocked.

[@bradleysmall2230]

@@alexanderlyon anayyse bidens speeches please... past and present

[@none-jc3xr]

When listening to Ronald Reagan, you feel a sense of security and comfort that tomorrow will be a better day.

[@lococomrade3488]

Yall boomers sure are simple and naive.

[@chrismiranda2051]

I remember this day like it was yesterday, I was 11 years old, in the 5th grade. The schools sent us home, and I remember going to my room. My father left work early, very unlike him to do so, because he knew that I would need him. We watched the president speak and my dad said that he needed to go to his room. I heard him crying and praying to God to watch over the families of the Challenger 7 crew and to watch over the children of this nation for having to witness something so tragic. I heard that he did the same thing after the attacks on 9/11. I was serving in the Marine Corps. My father passed away in 2008, and I can count on one hand the times that I saw or heard him cry. This will always make me cry because of that.

[@alexanderlyon]

Thank you for sharing your story, Chris. This was one of those defining moments, no doubt.

[@chrismiranda2051]

@@alexanderlyon It definitely left a mark on my life. Thank you for your reaction. I was in my emotions when I wrote before and forgot to say that.

[@sandman3159]

I was like 16, and watched it live. I don't recall why I was at home (probably faked something), but I remember calling my mom into the room to watch. We both stared in horror at the aftermath. To this day I remember the smoke trails and radio calls.

[@chrismiranda2051]

@@sandman3159 I hear you. It was a loss of innocence for the children of this nation, and for most of the younger adults. It was a moment of serious reflection on how precious life is.

[@sarahschmidt4177]

You had a great father. You were very blessed to have a father who was such a man of God. Thank you for your service in the Marines.

[@alrightalright4585]

Man, it'd be nice to have another President who could speak even half as eloquently as Reagan, again some day...

[@WxPickman09]

I’m not an Obama fan, but he was our last great speech giver as president. Imo

[@alrightalright4585]

@@WxPickman09 Yeah, if only his policies were even half as good as his speeches

[@SD4Health]

@@alrightalright4585you didn’t talk about their policies, you talked about their oration skills.

[@alrightalright4585]

@@SD4Health 👾

[@jdubsteachings]

I agree. I don't love Barry O but he was a great speaker. One of the best

[@simgingergirl]

There's such a sense of grandpa sitting down and having a personal talk with you.

[@Jimmy911ism]

Yes, you nailed it. I feel this way about him too.

[@timc3066]

Exactly! That's how I've explained it to younger people. I always felt that way.

[@flouisbailey]

Crazy Joe could never do this, past or current.

[@fredthompson1279]

I'm Canadian, and I always enjoyed listening to President Reagan's speeches. He truly was a great communicator. By contrast, our current Prime Minister comes off as an over the top drama teacher. He only speaks in empty platitudes.

[@geraldkrieghofer7106]

A ''

[@fredthompson1279]

@@geraldkrieghofer7106 it’s “eh”😀

[@bill9923]

The jet black hair and grey beard just bother me.

[@fredthompson1279]

@@bill9923 pretty sure he gets his hair dyed. He shaved the beard for the recent election.

[@simiangimp2282]

Jesus. It's like everyone has forgotten that you made an actual actor, POTUS.

[@dr.medieval1131]

I still get choked up with the last line of that beautiful and well delivered speech. It's almost like Reagan was meant to be President at that exact moment in time. Like fate almost.

[@Yobbie72]

for this reason and many others in the 1980s, in particular, the revival of national pride and the end of the Cold War.

[@projectjster]

That last line gives me goose bumps and chokes me up every time! Absolutely beautiful speech by President Reagan.

[@A.E.Lanman777]

God puts whom he will, where he will, when he will.

[@Neat0_o]

Man. I’m crying over a speech made decades ago. Fantastic speech. The ending gave me cold chills so hard that it was almost overwhelming.

[@stevenmiller3300]

I was 16 years old and in High School when this happened. It was Generation X's moment in history that we won't forget. I recall vividly, everyone in my house stopped to watch President Reagan give this speech. It felt like your wise old grandfather comforting the entire family after a tragedy. Only Ronald Reagan could communicate on such a way.

[@richdenver8460]

I was also 16. It truly was the day Gen X grew up. Well stated.

[@ahjort100]

All these years later, and I still cry when I watch this speech. I was a school kid in Florida when this happened and we all ran outside to watch them takeoff. I’ll never forget that moment. I didn’t understand what happened at first and our science teacher burst into tears when she finally understood what we all just witnessed. It was then I knew. My family watched President Reagan’s speech and it wasn’t just the words but the sincerity that comforted the entire nation.

[@alexanderlyon]

Agreed. I clearly get emotional too when I watch it. It all comes back. I remember seeing numerous adults crying in school that morning, a professional setting. That leave an emotional mark.

[@robfriar6570]

I agree. While he spoke, I began to cry. He was an amazing man who had a gift to inspire, comfort and challenge.

[@johnbutler4631]

I got teary eyed, and it happened 35 years ago!

[@aset317]

Save your tears my friend. The event was a psy-op. There was nobody on board.

[@frankanda9288]

@@aset317 Evidence?

[@Christobanistan]

I remember when I was 10 years old, in 4th grade, being brought in to watch the Challenger launch in the morning, then a few hours later, watching Reagan's speech. It was exactly what we all needed. RIP President Reagan, and the Challenger seven, and all our national heroes! ♥

[@Ri5004]

im 10 years old and i like president regan too!

[@Christobanistan]

@@Ri5004 Cool, dude!

[@na5681]

Wasn’t he the devil?

[@abramquinn7726]

3rd grade right before lunch

[@FatdogBlues]

I was in 3rd grade. The clarity of the memories from that day still surprise me. We all sat on the lunchroom floor, several classrooms together, circled close to a tv up on a roller stand. Half of us jumped to our feet in shock, teachers trying to stay composed, unsure of what to do, what to say, letting us stay there until we were sent home shortly after.

[@chrisnorman2879]

As usual with politics there are a myriad of views on his presidency, however I believe this man's love for our country and it's people are unequalled in our time. Growing up in the 80's there were some fairly tense moments between us and the Soviet Union and when they happened it was him that came on television to explain what was going on and to help alleviate our fears. Even as a kid you /knew/ this man was going to move heaven and earth if necessary to keep you safe. I highly recommend watching his farewell speech as well if you've never heard it. Rest in peace Mr. President.

[@conservativehippie9736]

Perfectly said 👏 ❤🇺🇸❤

[@sean_connors]

When Reagan was elected, I was guarding a fence-line that stretched nearly the length of a country. When this tragedy occurred, I was working in an aerospace machine shop. Parts I made may have been on-board Challenger. A foreman came to me that morning and said “Challenger just blew up in flight”. I looked at him or what seemed a long time, finally saying “That’s not funny”. I went to my car and turned on the radio - it was true. President Ronald Reagan got us (as America) through these challenges, and others. He bound the nation together by sheer force of love and respect for Americans, and sorely missed by many of us who were there in those times.

[@conservativehippie9736]

@@sean_connors I was 18 and home was Democrat yet Reagan changed those views for us and taught me so much...I waved my flag proudly and never stopped 🇺🇸❤

[@bodyandsoulwork]

ppp

[@joyperry2719]

Amen. President Reagan is sorely missed. I remember this tragedy. It was awful. It was obvious Reagan felt this loss

[@philipprice171]

This was a beautiful eulogy to the nation delivered with heartfelt sincerity.

[@OkOk-kk5ys]

His voice is warm, calm and reassuring.

[@chrisbera7952]

Reagan wasn't called " The great communicator" for nothing. He honed his speaking skills starting with acting, but really working for GE, traveling the country giving speeches. His caring and strength came through.

[@vinceinhouston-01]

Yes! That is what I found out too. He was capable of connecting because he spoke on what he believed.

[@stephanieredden8861]

Yep and in the Army

[@AluminumOxide]

@@stephanieredden8861 and an Air Force captain

[@3YearsApart1613]

I was one of those children he was talking to. I remember being in the 5th grade and going outside to watch the shuttle. We saw the explosion, but didn't understand what had happened. The teacher called us back into the classroom and the TV was on as she sat their weeping. I'll never forget it.

[@OverandOutChief1]

Wow, I was in the 5th grade as well. Tragic day.

[@randycarstens1100]

I also feel like crying every time Joe Biden speaks.

[@alexanderlyon]

Probably for different reasons?

[@patrickhentges977]

Oh $hit, just spit my drink all over my keyboard. You win tonight's 'Best Comment' award

[@misspad7282]

@@alexanderlyon - I knew someone would have to mention Joe....Alex, I don't think you could react to one of his speeches because they are so short and so few. lol You are good at what you do Sir.

[@pontifixmax]

I felt like vomiting whenever Trump spoke.

[@Nedula007]

Hehehehehehehe

[@hoganfan924]

I’ve seen this speech many times and it still puts a lump in my throat, and tear in my eye. I don’t know how he could have done it any better. Truly the right man at the right time.

[@frankscarborough1428]

Loved Ronald Reagan. Still appreciate him so much. He wasn’t called the great communicator for nothing.

[@alexanderlyon]

Agreed, Frank.

[@bitcrafter]

Peggy Noonan actually wrote this speech. As with everything, I'm sure Reagan added his notes, he had an amazing ability to put his stamp on it.

[@pirateboyfearless]

Awesome, while listening i was feeling it was written by a female. Its such a word perfect article and id never heard it before. Glad you knew this.

[@bitcrafter]

@@pirateboyfearless Peggy likes to talk about it, a lot. LOL. That said, if you've ever explored Reagan's speeches and letters, he was notorious for editing the speech writers and putting it in his own voice. He had mad skills. Check out "Reagan: A Life In Letters" and "Reagan, In His Own Hand: The Writings of Ronald Reagan that Reveal His Revolutionary Vision for America."

[@chriscron5253]

Noonan is not just a great speech writer but also an historian. She is well read and it is no surprise that she can reach back hundreds of years to cite a long since past event to put a current event into a desired context. And Reagan's ability to recite a speech with the proper tone, inflections, emotions, the way he looks at the camera; No wonder he has been called "The Great Communicator". (Sure beats the hell out of the last two POTUS!!)

[@sheLovesG]

That’s correct, but I’m sure a couple other people had input.

[@jennawildah6514]

@@bitcrafterYES. "Reagan: A Life in Letters" is a fantastic book! Personal & illuminating

[@colinpumpernickel2605]

I think most of us in the UK were very fond of Ronald Reagan. He always seemed genuine and was a great communicator. The way he met Mikael Gorbechov half way and did his part in improving U.S. Soviet relations was very impressive.

[@alexanderlyon]

Even his adversaries in government respected him. That says a lot.

[@tomshourd2601]

What a wonderful speaker, and your reaction to it is very moving, thank you

[@freebirdtony]

I'm so pleased to have lived through the Reagan years. I was a Marine Recruit in Parris Island, South Carolina when President Reagan was elected in November of 1980. The morning after the election, my Senior Drill Instructor Staff Sergeant Bostic, in a proud and forceful tone of voice announced to our platoon the following statement. "As of last night, we have a newly elected acting Commander in Chief, Ronald Wilson Reagan!" I remember how thrilled I was that morning, two weeks shy of graduation. My first time casting a vote in an election was the 1984 presidential election, when Reagan won 49 states to Mondale's 1, btw that one state was Mondale's home state of Minnesota, which he barely won 50.1% to 49.9% I highly recommend President Reagan's speech at Brandenburg Gate Germany on June 12th 1987, it was very moving.

[@blessed8543]

Thank you for your service sir!

[@freebirdtony]

@@blessed8543 It was my pleasure.🇺🇸

[@vinceinhouston-01]

He would have won it too, but if you remember, he decided not to point out Mondale's inexperience when Mondale tried to make an issue if Reagan's age! 😁 Just kidding. It would have been too embarrasing if Mondale didn't at least win his own state. 😉

[@freebirdtony]

@@vinceinhouston-01 That line Reagan layed in a debate about his opponent's youth and inexperience.🤣

[@vinceinhouston-01]

@@freebirdtony Oh yes! It was classic and funny as hell. Even Mondale laughed at it. You know there were a group of people in Reagan's camp worried that he would be (at that time) the oldest President to take office and Reagan had to be like, "Don't worry, I got this" It's just part of how amazing this man was.

[@marksmith9176]

“The future doesn’t belong to the faint hearted, it belongs to the brave.” We need some of that spirt to be endowed upon us now, right now more than ever before. What a great President. I was able to vote for him. I had just turned of age.

[@maureensebek4712]

I watched the Challenger on TV, as it exploded right before our eyes. I was at work, half paying attention until it blew up. I, along with most of the nation, was in shock. It was shocking, overwhelming and heart breaking. President Reagan spoke to and for a nation that was speechless and in shock. He was the perfect man to be our President that day. He acknowledged our grief and comforted a nation. We were so blessed to have him as President during that time. I will never, never forget…

[@kerrymadgett9852]

A master orator Ronald Regan speaks YOU listened and felt the moment. Major credit to the writers of this speech to remember. These words spoke for the heart of the people of America.

[@markquartullo2978]

Agree - but his name is spelled REAGAN, not Regan (FYI) 😎

[@grandadneal8114]

Nancy knew what a master orator he was.....3 times a week and twice on Sundays.......

[@nobodyforgets1552]

"Touch the Face of God" - Such a wonderful closing. It is a promise to the fallen heroes and a reminder to all rest of us.💕

[@okie-kan9240]

I was one of those kids watching it in school. It was sad. I just love Reagan and miss him, they don't make them like that any more.

[@zerocool160]

All these years later, and I still cry when I watch this speech I still get choked up with the last line of that beautiful and well-delivered speech.

[@LucidDream]

I love this speech. Especially the part to the children who were watching.

[@alexanderlyon]

Agreed. Reagan really knew how to handle hard conversations well.

[@chancethompson8686]

I was one of those children watching this happen, still tugs at my heart strings, and makes my eyes tear up, when I see it replayed.. Sad day.. ✌♥️🇺🇸

[@josephblowhard1659]

They slipped the bonds of earth and got splattered all over the face of god.

[@hyfy-tr2jy]

@@josephblowhard1659 all I can say is that I truly, honestly, and deeply feel bad for an upbringing in life that would make you feel that typing those words was something worth doing. I hope, someday you see the error in that choice

[@michaelfrancisco7949]

I was one of those kids.

[@professorbuc7375]

I grew up with the "surly bonds of earth" on the wall of our family house, as my Dad was a pilot. It dropped me cold when I watched Reagan say it live in 1986. He is part of the Reason I love teaching Public Speaking. Great Reaction, Alex! Thanks!

[@sarahschmidt4177]

Very well analyzed, Mr. Lyon. Your emotion at the end of Mr. Reagan's speech was very genuine and touching and mirrored the feelings of millions.

[@alexanderlyon]

Thanks, Sarah. It brought back some emotions, for sure. He did a great job.

[@banj59]

I remember watching the Challenger lift off on t.v. also. I also listened & watched President Raegan's speech. It was very comforting. He was so personal. And thank you for doing these videos! You are very good at your analogy. I'm so glad I stumbled upon this channel! Thank you!

[@Laura0IN]

Stumbled across your channel today with this video. I was in high school when this happened, and I remember it clearly. I do not recall seeing the Presidents address though. The speech was in stark contrast to my experience. I was not in a class where we were watching. Our principal got on the PA system to make the announcement, he started off with the words “ I regret to inform you that the United States has just launched…“ And then broke up because of emotions and had a long talk… I recall looking around the classroom, both the students and the teacher looked like a deer in the headlights, frozen and terrified. Sharp contrast between this great communicator’s speech.

[@fitfanatic1995]

I was born in 1996, and as long as I can remember seeing news or politics on TV, I've always been impressed with Regan. Even when I was a staunch liberal I thought Regan was the epitome of an American president and what they should aspire to.

[@alexanderlyon]

People may have disagreed with him but he set a Presidential tone like few others and really no others in the age of mass media.

[@Jerseybytes2]

@@alexanderlyon another thing I believe he was excellent in was, disarm his opponents with humor. for example, during one of the debates when he said, ""I want you to know that also I will not make age an issue of this campaign. I am not going to exploit, for political purposes, my opponent's youth and inexperience.". so, even if you didn't agree with what he said, you couldn't help but like him as a person. I've read other comments where they mention President Reagan was an actor etc. But, not sure if many know that he was also a lifeguard in his youth, and during those 6 years he worked as a lifeguard, he performed 77 rescues. I also heard that, when he was Governor of California, they were having a party at the Governor's mansion, and a little girl fell in the pool. First person who jumped in the pool to help her was President Reagan.

[@kevinburke6055]

Born in 1979 Reagan was the first president I ever knew. I was in first grade during Challenger. We talked about in class so in general he was talking to me when he said I want to talk to the school children in this speech. Great president my favorite during my lifetime.

[@Christopher_Bachm]

The architect for extreme inequality - awesome!

[@Christopher_Bachm]

@@alexanderlyon The tone of a con man - no thanks.

[@redriver6541]

I was in 6th grade.... In the auditorium getting ready for a play. We went back to the classroom to watch the launch... It was surreal, kind of like 9/11. Took awhile to sink in what had happened. I'll never forget it as long as I live....even the way I felt when I watched it. Just this video alone put me back into the moment so many years ago. Thanks for this man.

[@donaldsherman5913]

I wasn't alive then, but I still feel like Regan was one of the best presidential speakers we have ever had, as when he speaks you just want to listen, and that quote hit home for all but especially for the families of Michael John Smith and Dick Scobee, who were both Aviators before joining NASA and both flew combat missions over Vietnam.

[@jeremybeau8334]

@HardNews TV14 Is lzheimer just as funny to you as AIDS was to Ronnie? What about the crack epidemic he created? Such a "glorious" president.

[@strohrum001]

I saw this when i was a kid.never forgot it.

[@aragorn50th]

The Great Communicator. One of our greatest Presidents. ❤🇺🇸

[@couespursuit7350]

He was "THE GREAT COMUNICATOR" !!

[@rjburras9306]

Crack epidemic was created by this administration. What do you mean?

[@rjburras9306]

Plus he was a Hollywood actor before becoming president, Pretty good actor might I say. His best performance was as President!

[@smeegle3000]

Great liar.

[@KarmicPatina]

Just saying his lines….nothing more

[@kimjohnson8471]

21 years old. Found out when I turned on my radio after getting out of class. This speech is brilliant.

[@here4thecomments210]

I appreciate being able to witness your true raw emotions. Thank you.

[@alexanderlyon]

Thanks, Dionne. I did my best to hold it together but it was difficult. I sure didn't want to have to start over and redo the whole thing so I left the moment on there as a honest reaction. He's a powerful speaker addressing a difficult moment in history.

[@chancethompson8686]

@@alexanderlyon I was right there with you choking up, and teary eyed.. It was a sad day, and I still cant watch a replay of it without having those same emotions.. ✌♥️👍

[@uraniumu242]

Alex, you are a gem. I have spent a lifetime relishing the nuances of the spoken word and your lifelong love of and commitment to understanding and explaining for us laymen is wonderful. Thank you for these insights.

[@rebeccaanderson8305]

I remember sitting in class and listening to this. I will never forget.

[@alexanderlyon]

It was a hard day. I remember it well too.

[@IllyaLeonovMorganFreepony]

Please do not forget the superb camera work that was done during the speech. One image, framed perfectly, with pushes at just the right moment. I cannot imagine it being done better.

[@jeffgarner3903]

Thank you Alex, thank you for reminding me of this event. I was one of those school children. As well thank you for also reminding me what real leadership looks and sounds like. Yes he didn’t write the speech but those words have meaning for him and he is sincere. Thank you again.

[@alexanderlyon]

Thanks, Jeff. I'm glad it resonated.

[@chancethompson8686]

I was one of those children watching this happen, still tugs at my heart strings, and makes my eyes tear up, when I see it replayed.. Sad day.. ✌♥️🇺🇸

[@Lunar_Films]

that speech made you choke. Its moving. We lack leaders these days that can offer a speech like this

[@machtnichtsseimann]

Oh, my! Just now came across this coach and video. Good job on the breakdown, Professor. Suddenly remembering the Challenger tragedy and watching Reagan's subsequent beautiful speech brought this man to tears. R.I.P. Challenger Crew and President Reagan

[@tonianderson7341]

I was one of those school children watching live. I was in 4th grade, and I remember realizing immediately that I had just watched people die. As a 10 year old child I realized how fragile and fleeting life really is.

[@alexanderlyon]

Hi, Toni. I was a little older but I felt much the same way.

[@jeremiahrose4681]

I remember that incident, the shuttle explosion, like it was yesterday. I was in school (Phoenix AZ) computer class (Ms. Putman) and we just ended class and every during recess was talking about it.....we watch the news in school....still brings back strong emotions. RIP shuttle members.

[@mylesross5712]

I can remember this tragic event vividly while at work in January, 1986, a week or so after my 31st. birthday. This explosion was very upsetting and President Reagan’s address to the nation was amazing, and eloquent. I wept

[@PhillipChalabi]

You can see how much this speech impacted you as it went along. I have watched a few of your videos now, but this one grabbed my sub. Many thanks!

[@petems3283]

Reagan could convey empathy with his audience. Also being a trained actor gave him extra presence in front of the camera.

[@alexanderlyon]

Yes, Peter. Agreed.

[@edschultheis9537]

Another great communicator, and a contemporary of Reagan was Pope John Paul II. He was also professionally trained as an actor and spoke/understood 8-11 languages fluently. The trio of Ronald Reagan, British prime minister Margarette Thatcher, and Pope JP-II (native of Poland) were an irresistible force to help bring about the largely-peaceful collapse of the Soviet Union.

[@cristianzapparoli1421]

I was 14 and I looking live coverage TV at home: I was born and grew up in Italy: became an astronaut was my dream. This speech is something unbelievable: I 'can't crying every time I see it. Peggy Noonan write it down , probably with assistances, they have so few hours to do that and they did a great job. One of the greatest Speach I never heard.

[@swbrand]

That's why he was called "The Great Communicator". I miss him.

[@alexanderlyon]

One of a kind.

[@bigjake2061]

A great man, a great president.

[@donjohnston4215]

Contrast this to other grades like JFK, or even FDR even though I didn’t agree with his politics. Today we have stumbling bumbling Joe Biden literally asking what am I doing here when he couldn’t remember the name of a port near Los Angeles. Very sad how low our expectations for our leaders is today.

[@honolulublues5548]

@@donjohnston4215 even in his later years when Alzheimer's was setting in, he was more coherent than Uncle Joe.

[@bigjake2061]

@@donjohnston4215 during the very first Russian revolution, not the Bolshevik coup, the Bolsheviks who were not in power observed flawlessness, famine and death...chaos everywhere. Linens reported response was "worse is better ". He knew that the worst things got the more easily it would be for their coup to be accepted in October. I see our government constantly making serious errors. These errors come down to either an incompetence at the job, or this was their intended outcome all along. Entertain for a moment that the people who are pulling Biden strings are not interested in improving the state of this country. Worse is better in their minds.

[@JRPLawyeress1]

I remember the day clearly. I was in my late 20s. There was a lot of talk and excitement about the Challenger. The explosion was so shocking and horrifying after the anticipation we all had. President Reagan really comforted us. I still get choked up watching the speech many years later. He really honored the astronauts.

[@jennifergroeneweg8727]

I remember this day well- was in grade 10 science class watching it. Even though I am Canadian, I had a lot of respect for President Reagan, and remember watching his address later that day as well- brought me to tears then, just as it did all these years later watching it again today! Thank you for this video

[@AurorXZ]

I'm much too young to have lived through this tragedy, but this speech just brought tears to my eyes. Wow.

[@alexanderlyon]

It was powerful at the time, too.

[@chrisf2288]

I was 8 years old when this happened, and remember it like yesterday. Reagan was a special human being and President, and probably the last one who was humble and truly for the people. You may not have agreed with some of his policies, but I believe he did what he thought was best for the nation, nowadays political actions are based on what will help generate more votes for one party or help them gain more power. A true Orator, his speeches still amaze me today and always bring out an emotion whether it be laughter, tears, or pride and thankfulness of being so lucky to live in this great nation.

[@JamesBond-qv2ht]

I became choked up too. Powerful and heartfelt. And he didn’t check his watch even once. RIP Presiden Reagan.

[@perniciousreaper4393]

The poem you refer to at the end is called "High Flight." When I was an officer candidate in the Air Force, it was tradition to learn and recite it. It is THE unofficial poem of aviators worldwide: Oh! I have slipped the surly bonds of Earth And danced the skies on laughter-silvered wings; Sunward I’ve climbed, and joined the tumbling mirth of sun-split clouds, - and done a hundred things You have not dreamed of - wheeled and soared and swung High in the sunlit silence. Hov’ring there, I’ve chased the shouting wind along, and flung My eager craft through footless halls of air . . . Up, up the long, delirious, burning blue I’ve topped the wind-swept heights with easy grace Where never lark nor even eagle flew - And, while with silent lifting mind I’ve trod The high untrespassed sanctity of space, Put out my hand, and touched the face of God.

[@helenwalker716]

I love this. Thank you for posting this.

[@chadloveless1871]

If you stayed up late as a kid in the early 70s when the TV would sign off - a video of a pilot and this poem would be what was played - beautiful

[@budbundy4014]

President Regan truly loved this country. He loves his fellow Americans. You can tell he meant every word he said. And for him to address the school Children was absolutely compassionate and amazing. One of the greatest Presidents of all time.

[@FatheredPuma81]

Imagine having a president this Charismatic in 2020. Sure would be something.

[@valeriesmith3218]

We had Trump but the Democrats and the Media choose to make every day of his Presidency a Living Hell and working against him and never mentioning All the good things he managed to get done regardless and all the things he could have done if they weren't So Self Serving in their hatred for him and not their love for us and our Country.

[@dianej8779]

@@valeriesmith3218 Good for You! Loved your response!!

[@JamesBond-qv2ht]

@@valeriesmith3218 I agree completely. I hope to have another chance to vote for him in 2024. Let’s go Brandon!

[@pudder68]

"They slipped they're surly bonds to touch the face of God" is one of the greatest lines ever spoken

[@alexanderlyon]

Yes. Perfect.

[@tracysample6942]

Yeah well he didn't write that. He was a Hollywood actor.

[@pudder68]

@@tracysample6942 wtf does that have anything to do with it? ah... that's right you've been programmed to hate ..

[@bentighe4811]

@@tracysample6942 it's no secret that Reagan didn't write the "surly bonds" line; that's common knowledge. "Surly bonds" was part of a text that was written back in the '60s and filed away at NASA in case of future tragedy. But it might interest you to know that Reagan wrote all of his own speeches until he was elected president in 1980, and in addition to that he was a brilliant extemporaneous speaker. All of that has nothing to do with his having been an actor. He was called The Great Communicator, not because he was good at reading a teleprompter, but because he was gifted at conveying complex thoughts and feelings to people of all persuasions, in a variety of circumstances and mediums.

[@doribellan]

@@pudder68 and hate they never stopped. It has only escalated today: separating people of different shades of skin, putting them against each other then pretending they can bring everyone together. It’s quite sick that some people fully participate and follow these actions.

[@babyboomermemories6150]

This was so amazing. I am writing this with tears flowing. My daughter watched the launch at school that day. She was only 8 or 9 at the time. I think President Reagan felt the pain very deep because he encouraged the Teacher in Space program.

[@nathanaelheide98]

You should react to reagans tear down this wall speech.

[@ivansanta-maria1328]

The great communicator loved reagan

[@henridunant6410]

What a wonderful speech and I'm deeply impressed! Thank you for this emotional Video and for your empathic Reaction!

[@alexanderlyon]

I'm glad it was a helpful video, Henri. It was emotional, indeed.

[@kateg99]

Feelings about this man aside, holy hell he could deliver a speech. This is a master class of both speechwriting and oration.

[@anthonyrossmaund3161]

I was born in 1986, so im to young to remember this. I love watching this because it teaches me style of speaking. Thanks

[@alphamegaradio]

Many of us remember that sad day, and the speech by the President later that evening. This is what a great leader sounds like, folks.

[@msdarby515]

I was 22 years old when this happened and neither a school child nor particularly into the space program. But I remember the national mourning that we experienced. It was devastating. To have such a dramatic loss and to have that include the first civilian to ever go into space. Reagan's words, "As they slipped the surly bonds of earth and touched the face of God" from the poem High Flight brought us so much comfort. He gave us the idea that they were just that little bit closer to heaven when the time came. He recognized that we were all hurting, and reminded us all that it's a dangerous endeavor and just how brave they were.

[@alexanderlyon]

Well said.

[@tamikahinckley7201]

It's already known that si x out off seven are alive and well

[@gaylekerr9826]

@@tamikahinckley7201 what do you mean by that statement?

[@taz1417]

Man, this was a good reminder to look back on this tragic event and what Reagan said later that day. He highlighted bravery and courage in this speech. Today, we keep hearing about hiding and fearing the unknown. "Can't take a chance", or "Stay home", or "Don't take the risk", but I don't want to be comparing here, but as he was aging in the White House for 2 terms, Reagan was very coherent and concise. Do I really need to go on about the current bloke in the White House?

[@swbrand]

He and Nancy went on to attend and and HUG, every family member of each member lost, during the National Memorial given in the Flight Crews Honor. That was intensely moving.

[@chuck7190]

If it were slow Joe he would have checked his watch 15 times.

[@sbeaber]

I bet he didn't check his watch.

[@RobTebaldi]

So on point with this analysis. I remember it vividly as I was one of the thousands of children across the country watching those events unfold live.

[@unidentifiedguy8253]

"The Great Communicator" is a great source for modeling speaking skills on. I know Reagan did some good ones where he tells anti-Communist jokes supposedly sourced from farmers and citizens living in the USSR. He struck a good balance with these as it didn't feel like you were getting Capitalist/Anti-Communist propaganda forced on you. It felt more like a friend was telling you a joke and didn't really have any intentions beyond getting a laugh, rather than a persuasive essay/propaganda. Also, participating in something usually done with friends and co-workers by the water cooler like telling a joke (and especially in his tone) made it feel like you were in personal contact and an actual acquaintance of the president even though he was talking through the radio airwaves. Whatever your politics, for a president to win 49 out of 50 states for his re-election, he has to be a hell of a speaker.

[@teemo8870]

I haven't loved or respected another modern president more than Ronald Reagan. My first vote was for him and it was the best vote I ever made. 🇺🇸 REAGAN 🇺🇸

[@GUFONU]

I remember that entire day and watched the shuttle explode on live television. Later that day, Regan made the speech and I wept like a 18yr old baby. What a wonderful speech for such a devastating experience.

[@goldenretrieverdad]

Greatest President of my lifetime. I was 17 when this happened and skipped school to watch at home, devastating.

[@tomhammack1921]

Listening to how presidential Reagan sounded, makes one feel how far we have fallen. I did not vote for him either time, but we could do with his communication skills today.

[@simiangimp2282]

He was a fucking actor, sweetheart. He could sound however you told him to sound.

[@Christopher_Bachm]

He gave us the 2008 financial crisis. He gave us the Keating Five. He set the stage for Trump and the criminal organization that we euphemistically call a political party. We don't need anymore of that.

[@simiangimp2282]

@@Christopher_Bachm What? Lol 2008 financial crash? Are you on drugs?

[@Christopher_Bachm]

@@simiangimp2282 See how little you know... Ronnie deregulated financial services.

[@honolulublues5548]

@@Christopher_Bachm you keep pushing this thought that he single-handedly deregulated the finance industry, but you'd be wrong. First, there were two bills past within a few years of each other, the first passed by a Democrat Congress and signed by Carter in 1980 and a second passed in 1982 by a Democrat Congress and signed by Reagan. It is well known that the first law contributed to the collapse of the Savings and loan industry. The second one that Reagan signed is highly doubtful that it had an effect on the S&L industry. But, neither caused the 2008 financial crisis. That was a bipartisan effort in Congress and signed by Clinton. The Keating Five were created out of the S&L scandal, which as I said before, is doubtful that it was caused by the bill that Reagan signed. Additionally, the Keating Five were four Democrat and one RINO Senators. Two (the RINO and one Democrat) were found not guilty. The other three received slaps on the wrists and served out their terms. Reagan had nothing to do with them. Reagan had nothing to do with Trump. By the time Trump was political, Reagan was dead for more than a decade. But, given the choice now, I'd say Trump was the better choice over Biden.

[@mikenixon2401]

You presentation needs to be shown to school children today for many reasons. My son was 10 at the time and I remember we had a good talk that evening.

[@AnthonyFransella]

I watched the launch as a 6 yr old from in front of my house in Central Florida and it was hugely impactful. I'd add to the excellent analysis that his the quote at the end also gives comfort that the victims touched the face of God and are safe now.

[@billjensen401]

Outstanding commentary. I was 23 when this happened. Everyone at work was in shock that morning but President Reagan comforted the entire nation that night as nobody else could. What a great man.

[@martinmouncher9825]

Was 18 that year and had followed the shuttle programme from the start as a young teenager here in the United Kingdom... American was lucky to have Regan as their POTUS back then.

[@BassManNv]

Incredible parallels. I’ve never seen this, but was touched. Thanks for sharing and analyzing this!

[@murgerowitz]

Ronal Reagan was a living legend in this time. Boy we need him now.

[@artigraphmultimedia1489]

We have him now. The legacy of his Administration helped pave the way for where we are today. He's gotta be smiling.

[@Christopher_Bachm]

The architect for extreme inequality - no thanks.

[@honolulublues5548]

I hear he voted for Joe Biden. 😆

[@honolulublues5548]

@@Christopher_Bachm sorry, but you're thinking of Johnson.

[@Christopher_Bachm]

@@honolulublues5548 Johnson was no saint in my book. Guns and Butter was his deal with the devil. Financial sector deregulation was Ronnie.

[@westibbs]

This is a great analysis of my favorite presidential speech of all time. Written by Peggy Noonan, it was perhaps perfect. Comforting, concise, exact, beautiful.

[@anaheimdennis]

Wow, what a great review. You are on point with everything you said. Bravo!

[@alexanderlyon]

Thank you for the feedback. It was a powerful video to react to. He was amazing.

[@nunyabidness1742]

I'm 65 years old, and throughout my entire childhood, when TV stations went off the air at night (yes, that was a thing), they played a recitation of the poem "High Flight." I'm sure Ronald Reagan and his speechwriters took into account how comfortingly familiar that quotation would be to us.

[@cadfire1047]

Wish we had someone like this these days. Thank you, re-watching this is as powerful as it was to me at 15 years old.

[@larryshores9402]

One of the greatest.

[@timprescott4634]

The final words of this speech are simply breathtaking. They have been embedded in my conscience since the moment he first uttered them.

[@martincoronado9232]

I once read that one thing that his dad had taught him was how to tell a story. Ever since then President Reagan has had such a great ability to tell us what needs to be told. That’s why he is known as the great communicator.

[@Yobbie72]

Yes, he said that Jack Reagan was the 'greatest storyteller' that he ever met.

[@sonnynick1]

That was amazing. Ty for reminding us just how special of a man he was at communicating.

[@mrboyer]

Reagan had a lot of classic speeches.

[@OrginialDiamondGirl]

Oh my God that was beautiful. yes I cried. Thank you so much @AlexLyon, it was more than I could have hoped for. Your analysis is impeccable, I thoroughly enjoyed it.

[@FL-Man78]

I was in 5th grade my whole school went out to watch the launch because a teacher was on board ,many schools were watching that day.. Our school was NW of the Center and had a perfectly clear view of the flight path. When we watched it explode we cheered, we had no idea that happened till we got inside and saw teachers were crying then our principal said a prayer over intercom to all the classes and told us what happened. A few weeks later a memorial was built and a tree planted for each that are both there to this day

[@robpolaris7272]

I was in 5th grade watching this live in class. My teacher absolutely broke down crying. It was so surreal. As I watched the second plane hit the tower on 9-11 it reminded me of this childhood trauma.

[@bend4014]

It really is one of the best speeches ever!

[@alexanderlyon]

He crushed it.