Minute 022: If You Hold Out for Ken

The NASA Director is explaining the options for the Apollo 13 mission to Jim Lovell. “We can either scrub Mattingly, go with Swigert,” says the Director, “or we can bump all three of you to a later mission.” Lovell pauses. “I’ve trained for the Fra Mauro highlands,” says Lovell. “and this is — Flight Surgeon horses–t! Deke –?” “Jim, if you hold out for Ken, you will not be on Apollo 13,” says Deke. “It’s your decision.” The scene changes to Jack Swigert’s apartment. His phone is ringing. Jack is in the shower. “Oh, let it ring!” says a woman. “I gotta take that,” says Jack, climbing out of the shower. The woman is with him in the shower. “Oh why?” says the woman. “Because,” says Jack, “I’m on the backup crew. The backup crew has to set up the guest lists, book the hotel rooms — Swigert!” he says as he picks up the phone.  “Yeah,” he says into the phone, then becomes more formal,  “Yes. Yes, sir. I understand. Thank you, sir. ” He hangs up the phone and rubs his forehead, bewildered. The woman steps into the bedroom, wearing a towel and drying her hair. IN THIS MINUTE: Jim Lovell: Tom Hanks Technician Walter: Walter von Huene Deke Slayton: Chris Ellis Flight Surgeon Dr. Chuck: Christian Clemenson NASA Director: Joe Spano Jack Swigert: Kevin Bacon Woman in Towel: Unknown