Astronaut Col. William R. Pogue will discuss his memoir “But for the Grace of God” and sign the book at 7 p.m., tonight, Aug. 25, 2011, at St. Louis County Library Headquarters, 1640 S. Lindbergh Blvd.

The program is free and open to the public.  Books will be available for purchase at the event.

From a library news release:

For decades, Colonel Bill Pogue has been an unsung hero in the astronaut corps. Korean War aviator, U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds pilot, Air Force Academy professor, Apollo 7, 11 and 14 support crew member, and Skylab IV pilot, Pogue has seen it all and escaped death on several occasions. Now his story is told in an inspiring account of a unique and adventure-filled life.

Colonel Pogue flew more than 50 types and models of American, British and Czech aircraft during his 25-year military career. His 84-day space flight aboard the Skylab space station set eight endurance and distance records.

Alan Bean, Apollo 12 Astronaut, called Bill one of the astronauts he admired most during his eighteen-year career at NASA. He says, “‘But for the Grace of God’ will serve as a life-changing inspiration for many. It is a must read for anyone interested in space exploration.” 

Ed Buckbee, NASA Public Affairs and founder of U. S. Space Camp, calls Bill Pogue, “… a country boy from the heartland of America who surpassed his wildest dreams as an aviator, combat fighter pilot, elite Thunderbird pilot, and a member of the brotherhood of astronauts who went higher, faster, and farther. It makes me proud to know this country can produce such patriots, aviators, and space explorers. We only made a few. Bill Pogue was one.”