Joe Frank Edwards Jr. (born February 3, 1958), (Cmdr, USN, Ret.), is an American aerospace engineer, former naval officer, aviator, test pilot and NASA astronaut.

Early life and education

Edwards was born February 3, 1958, in Richmond, Virginia, but considers both Lineville, Alabama, and Roanoke Alabama, to be his hometowns. He graduated from Lineville High School in 1976 and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Aerospace Engineering from the United States Naval Academy in 1980. In 1994, he received a Master of Science degree in Aviation Systems from University of Tennessee in Knoxville.

Edwards was designated a Naval Aviator in February 1982. He was assigned to Fighter Squadron 143 (VF-143) in 1983, after completion of F-14 Tomcat training, and flew fighter escort and reconnaissance combat missions over Lebanon in 1983.

NASA career

Selected as an astronaut by NASA in December 1994, Edwards reported to the Johnson Space Center in March 1995. He worked on technical issues for the Space Shuttle and International Space Station in the Safety Department of the Astronaut Office. He also served as Technical Assistant to the Director, Flight Crew Operations Directorate, NASA Director of Operations (DOR), Russia, and Astronaut CAPCOM representative in Mission Control for Shuttle ascent and entry.

Awards and memberships

Edwards is a member of the Society of Experimental Test Pilots, Association of Naval Aviation, and the U.S. Naval Institute.

He has received the Defense Superior Service Medal, Distinguished Flying Cross, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal, Navy Commendation Medal, Navy Achievement Medal, Daedalian Superior Airmanship Award 1992, Fighter Squadron 143 Fighter Pilot of the Year, 1984, 1985, Fighter Squadron 142 Fighter Pilot of the Year, 1990, 1991, 1992. Carrier Air Wing 7 Pilot of the Year, 1985, 1990, 1991.

He is married to the former Janet Leigh Ragan of Leonardtown, Maryland. His parents, Joe Frank and Jane McMurray Edwards, are deceased and formerly resided in Roanoke, Alabama.

References

  • Space facts biography of Joe F. Edwards Jr.