For those that say that nothing is accomplished by putting man in space, I would suggest that you think about how productive flying was after man had achieved its first 100 or so flights in powered aircraft! Lots of people were killed for something that didn't move a whole lot faster than a horse and carried a whole lot less!
The simple act of flying man in space is important in the natural progesssion of humanity. If we are ever to leave this planet ( and some day we must, it is our nature to expand ) it starts with baby steps, just like the wobbly short flight the Wright brothers took 100 years ago.
The astronauts knew the risks and took them willingly. They accept that 1 in 75 chance that comes with flying on the Shuttle because this is what they do! This is not a commercial airplane ride. This is research and developement, which is not always the safest thing in the world. While not safe, it is important. The Astronauts CHOSE to go.
I admire the courage, and am comforted in knowing that they died for something they loved, at the pinacle of their game. They won't be forgotten.
Cheers
Wino