Growing Bolder Community

When Joe Kittinger parachuted from space, he not only made history, he also paved the way to save the lives of future space travelers.

This week's guests include actor Ernest Borgnine, space pioneer Joe Kittinger, cancer survivor, heart transplant recipient and Ironman triathlete Kyle Garlett and we go Inside the Story with musician Wayne Gratz.

Col. Joe Kittinger has a passion for teaching children and for sharing his passion in aviation, engineering, lifelong learning and the U.S.A. With our help, Colonel Kittinger is finding that live video chats can instantly take him into any classroom.

An aviation pioneer, hot air balloon adventurist, war hero and space legend -- Col. Joe Kittinger is also one of the kindest people you'll ever meet. Hear what he says about living legacies and giving back.

In 1984, at the age of 56, fighter pilot, daredevil and American aviation hero Joe Kittinger completed the first solo trans-Atlantic balloon flight from Maine to Italy. 25 years later, he shares his story with Growing Bolder. Here's a sneak peek.

50 years ago this summer, Joe Kittinger rode a balloon to the very edge of space and jumped. To commemorate man's longest leap, 50 of the world's best skydivers gathered to honor Kittinger with a very unique tribute, high above the ground.

Col. Joe Kittinger is well-known for his legendary leaps forward in aviation. But there was a chapter left out of his amazing ballooning career. For several years, Kittinger was Michael Jackson's private pilot.

In 1972, decorated combat pilot and legendary aviator Joe Kittinger was shot down and imprisoned in the "Hanoi Hilton." The man in the next cell was John McCain. For the first time, Kittinger speaks out on camera about their experiences.

Decorated combat pilot Joe Kittinger has been pushing the envelope since he jumped out of a high-altitude balloon just past the edge of space. At age 80, he's still flying high and telling remarkable stories about his legendary life.

You may have noticed our friend Col. Joe Kittinger popping up on your TV screens a lot this week. As we first revealed earlier this year, Joe is advising Felix Baumgartner as Felix attempts to break Joe's 50-year-old record.