Space Shuttle Columbia

Crew

 

William McCool

McCool, 41, was the pilot. A U.S. Navy Commander, he is also a former test pilot.

An astronaut since 1996, he was making his first spaceflight.

McCool grew up building model airplanes and graduated to being a naval aviator, just like his father. He was also an Eagle Scout.

He was married and had three sons, ages 14 to 22.