2 years ago I got 3 hours notice that Pam Melroy was in Melbourne talking to a crowd at a girl's secondary school. I did get to the talk, and several of us took her to dinner after the talk. I got to sit next to her and talk at tea for 20 minutes with her. Here is the link describing that evening.
http://www.ifta.com.au/melroy.htm
I also got to meet my namesake, Joseph P. Allen, over 20 years ago in Indianapolis. He grew up near my hometown of Indianapolis.
That night with Pam will live with me forever. There is something special in meeting a female astronaut like Pam. Much more of a thrill than meeting an athlete or politician, or even a musician.
Joseph Allen, Melton