Sherman Siers,of the Rocket Boys
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Sherman Siers http://www.homerhickam.com/rocket.htm written by Homer Hickam Jr Sherman Siers became an engineer after attending West Virginia Tech. Then, in the early 1970's, moved into the new world of computers by becoming a Computer Systems Analyst. After contracting polio as child, Sherman surpassed his physical limitations (Sherman contacted Polio as a child )by becoming a 7-handicap golfer and even more amazingly a catcher in local Softball leagues. In addition, he was a diabetic; requiring insulin shots every day. Sherman never let on that he was any different than the next guy. He had a quick mind, which he used to play Bridge at almost a master's level. Sherman died in 1976 from a heart attack at the age of 34. He was survived by his wife, Janet, and three children, John (11), Aimee (9) and Barbie (6) |
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There was a book and a movie produced about
these boys story The Book " The Rocket Boys" was released in 1998 and Universal Studios started making the movie.The Movie will be titled "October Sky" February 16,1999 Mason and mother Audrey went to the movie premier " October Sky" in Knoxville Tn.they had the premier in Knoxville because most of the movie was filmed in and around Knoxville ,actors and actresses,the Goverrnor of Tn. and some of the extra's attended the premier On March 11,1999 Mason and Audrey went to Charleston,WV.. The Governor had a press conference about the movie 'October Sky".the rocket boys received the Distinquished West Virginia Award and a Proclamation from the House of Delegates.Then we went to the Senate and were recognized by them Sherman Lee Siers died of a Heart Attack He contracted Polio at the age of 2 This information was givin to me by my cousin and brother to Sherman. Mason Siers in Nov. 2000 |