-2-
Walker flew as pilot on STS-51A in 1984, and as commander of STS-30, last year. Gregory has flown twice previously, as pilot for Shuttle mission STS-51B in April, 1985, and as crew commander for STS-33, also a dedicated Department of Defense flight, in November, 1989.
Both Walker and Gibson can become eligible again for Shuttle crew assignment following reinstatement to T-38 flight status.
"Dave and Hoot have each made substantial contributions to the Shuttle and Space Station programs, and have performed in an outstanding manner on ‘their respective Shuttle flights,“ said chief astronaut Daniel C. Brandenstein. "These actions are unfortunate, but they're in the best interests of us all. These policies are vitally important and are to be taken seriously."
# # #
