(ALAN SHEPARD) (1923-88) American astronaut, the first American to fly into space on May 5, 1961. Shepard later participated in the third successful moon landing aboard Apollo XIV. A truly humble person, shortly before launch in his Mercury capsule, he prayed: "Please, dear God, don't let me f--- up". Offered here is an unusual piece, an Autograph Note Signed by Shepard's father, Colonel ALAN B. SHEPARD, SR. , "Col. & Mrs. Alan B. Shepard, Sr." 1p. 12mo., Spacetown, May 5, 1961, the proud parents of the first American in space write a short note on a card bearing a 2.25" x 3.25" black and white photo of their son in his flight suit, to then Captain Donald K. "Deke" Slayton -- on the day Shepard was shot into space! In full: "Dear Capt. Slayton, As I am sending my thanks or the White House picture, I would like to send you my personal greetings - From Alan's Parents Col . & Mrs. Alan B. Shepard Sr., Spacetown U.S.A. May 5, 1961." Very fine. $300-400