House Joint Resolution 487, sponsored by Representative Clemmons, honors Captain Barry "Butch" Wilmore, a Tennessean astronaut, for his remarkable service during his extended mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS). After initially departing Earth as part of Boeing's Starliner first crewed mission, Captain Wilmore faced unexpected technical issues that led to a nine-month stay in space, far exceeding the planned duration. He and his colleague, Captain Sunita Williams, returned to Earth on March 18, 2025, after a successful water landing off the Florida coast, marking the end of a significant chapter in space exploration.

The resolution commends Captain Wilmore for his dedication and resilience throughout his extended mission, highlighting his extensive experience as a retired U.S. Navy captain and NASA astronaut. With over 8,000 flight hours and two spaceflights to his credit, Captain Wilmore's contributions to aeronautics and space flight are celebrated by the General Assembly. The resolution expresses gratitude for his commitment to space exploration and wishes him well in his future endeavors, formally welcoming him back to Earth.