Dr. June Scobee Rodgers
The historic 76th Chattanooga-Hamilton County Armed Forces Week Parade will spotlight the Space Operations Command with General B. Chance Saltzman as the chief reviewing officer and keynote speaker for the Armed Forces Week Luncheon at the Chattanooga Convention Center. General Saltzman is a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, U. S. Department of Defense. All branches of the United States military will be honored at both events.
In recognition of this historic moment in Chattanooga history, two grand marshals will lead the parade.
Captain Robert L. “Hoot” Gibson, USN [Ret], former NASA astronaut will be joined by his colleague and friend, Dr. June Scobee Rodgers as they marshal the longest, continuously-staged Armed Forces Day Parade in the city that has been known as “most patriotic city in the nation” since 1921.
Officials said, "Dr. Rodgers, one of Chattanooga’s most renowned citizens, is the widow of Challenger Space Shuttle Commander Richard “Dick” Scobee. She has dedicated her time and energy to continuing the crew’s educational mission by founding Challenger Center for Space Science Education to foster a new generation of 'star challengers' – young people who will reach for the stars no matter their circumstances.
"Nationally recognized and honored with countless awards during her professional career, in 2015, June received the distinguished Alan Shepard Technology in Education Award, and in 2019, she received the 'Apollo 50th Education Award,' saluting her pioneering work and dedication to motivate our future Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) workforce.
"An active and prominent leader in education throughout her professional life, June holds a Ph.D. from Texas A&M University and an honorary doctor of science degree from the University of Leicester, England. She has been a classroom teacher and university professor, served as a consultant to local, state and federal education agencies, and become a nationally recognized advocate for the advancement of science and math education.
"While best known for her tireless efforts on behalf of Challenger Center, Dr. Rodgers has also gained attention for her work as an author. June created the “Star Challengers” science adventure books for young readers."
“Silver Linings - My Life before and after the Challenger 7” is the expanded story of her book, “Silver Linings - Triumph of the Challenger 7.” More than the story of a ragged teenager who struggles to overcome adversity, it is a coming of age story that deals with issues like personal triumph, perseverance and compassion.
Dr. Rodgers and Dick Scobee had two children: Kathie Scobee Fulgham and LTG Richard Scobee, USAF. Dr. Rodgers was married to recently deceased LTG Don Rodgers for 33 years.
The Chattanooga-Hamilton County Armed Forces Week Parade will begin at 10:30 a.m. this Friday, and follow a Market Street route from MLK Boulevard to Second Street, turning west and processing in front of the Reviewing Stand in front of the National Medal of Honor Heritage Center. Citizens are urged to line the streets in support of active-duty and veteran military servicemen and servicewomen.