Clint Hill, a former US Secret Service agent renowned for his heroic actions during the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, has died at the age of 93. Hill, who initially deemed his assignment to President-elect Kennedy's wife in 1960 as a demotion, became an integral figure in one of the most pivotal moments in American history. On that fateful day in November 1963, Hill was the only Secret Service agent to rush to the presidential limousine after shots rang out in Dallas, Texas.
Hill, a 31-year-old at the time with five years of service under his belt, responded instinctively when gunfire struck. He leaped onto the back of the presidential limo, a courageous act immortalized in a 26-second film captured by bystander Abraham Zapruder. With his body, Hill shielded the mortally wounded President Kennedy in an unparalleled act of bravery.
Following the assassination, Hill played a critical role in ensuring the President's body was respectfully handled. He helped load Kennedy's body onto Air Force One for its somber journey back to Washington. Hill also accompanied Mrs. Kennedy and the President’s body to the autopsy, continually providing support in those harrowing hours.
Despite receiving a citation for his actions on the day of the assassination, Hill was plagued by thoughts of what could have been done differently. His regret was profound, captured poignantly in his own words:
"If I had reacted just a little bit quicker… I'll live with that to my grave." – Clint Hill
The haunting memory of that day took a toll on Hill’s mental health. He struggled with alcoholism, depression, and recurring nightmares, grappling with guilt over not reaching the car in time to intercept the third shot himself. Reflecting on his conversation with Robert F. Kennedy shortly after the assassination, Hill recounted:
"Well, I didn't want to tell him his brother was dead. I didn't think it was my place. So I said, 'It's as bad as it can get.' And when I said that he hung up the phone." – Clint Hill
In an effort to come to terms with his past, Hill penned four books detailing his experiences, notably "Five Presidents" and "Mrs. Kennedy and Me". He sought solace in revisiting Dallas in 1990, where he retraced his steps from that tragic day. This journey provided him some measure of peace:
"And after a couple hours I came away knowing that I did everything I could that day," – Clint Hill
Hill's legacy is one of dedication and bravery. Despite his internal struggles, he remained committed to telling his story and honoring his duty to the office he served. His close work with five U.S. presidents marked him as an individual deeply intertwined with American history.
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