Astronaut and U.S. Navy Officer Jessica Williams is set to receive the prestigious Patriots’ Award at the Boston Marathon on April 20, an honor bestowed by the Boston Athletic Association (BAA). The award recognizes an individual, group, or organization from New England that exemplifies patriotism, philanthropy, and inspiration while promoting sportsmanship and goodwill.
The BAA praised Williams, a native of Needham, for embodying the spirit of perseverance, service, and curiosity. In addition to receiving the award, she is also registered to run the marathon, showcasing her commitment to both athletics and her community.
Williams recently retired from NASA, marking the end of a remarkable career that included her role as a crew member on Boeing’s Starliner capsule test flight in 2024. This mission intended to last just a week but extended to over nine months due to technical issues with the spacecraft. Ultimately, Williams and her crewmate, Butch Wilmore, were able to return to Earth thanks to assistance from Elon Musk’s SpaceX.
Even during her time in space, Williams maintained her athletic spirit by participating in races. Notably, she took part in the Falmouth Road Race in August 2024, running from the International Space Station. As the race commenced, she motivated fellow competitors from hundreds of miles above, expressing her support and encouragement for every participant.
As Williams prepares to run in the Boston Marathon, thousands of spectators are expected to applaud her commitment and determination, contributing to a festive atmosphere at the finish line in Copley Square. Her journey exemplifies the essence of resilience and community spirit, inspiring many to pursue their dreams.