Deputy NASA Administrator Was Three-Time Shuttle Flier

NASA's first black shuttle commander, now a deputy administrator, is stepping down after a 31-year career with the space agency. Fred Gregory says it's time to move on.

"I've had an exciting career in NASA, but it is now time to step down so that someone younger and highly motivated can have the same experience," Frederick Gregory, 64, wrote in his resignation letter to President Bush. The letter was quoted by the Associated Press.

Gregory said he'll stay on the job until the Senate confirms a replacement.

In 2002, Gregory, who's now 64-years old, was the first African American to be confirmed as NASA's second-in-command.

He briefly took over as administrator when Sean O'Keefe resigned earlier this year.

"He is the best of the best, and we have been fortunate to have his steady hand at NASA's helm during the most troubled period in NASA's history," said current Administrator Michael Griffin.

NASA says Gregory will likely stay on in some capacity even after his resignation becomes official. A spokesman for the agency didn't elaborate.

FMI: www.nasa.gov