October 03, 1962
THE CITIZENS of this nation are again proud of an historic exploration into space. Today's milestone comes as the direct result of our redoubled effort in this scientific venture.
Our country extends special congratulations to Commander Schirra and to all those connected with Project Mercury, and our deep appreciation to the other nations that have helped make this program a success.
John F. Kennedy, Statement by the President on the Orbital Flight of Astronaut Walter Schirra Online by Gerhard Peters and John T. Woolley, The American Presidency Project https://www.presidency.ucsb.edu/node/235767