Clint Hill is a former United States Secret Service agent who was assigned to protect the President of the United States. Hill is best known for his bravery during the assassination of President John F. Kennedy in 1963. He has become a well-known figure in United States history and has written several books about his experiences.
Early Life and Career
Clint Hill was born on January 4, 1932, in Larimore, North Dakota. He grew up on a farm and attended Concordia College in Moorhead, Minnesota. After college, Hill joined the United States Army and served in the Korean War. After his military service, Hill joined the Secret Service in 1958.
Protecting the President
Hill was assigned to protect President Kennedy in 1960 during the presidential campaign. He was present during several key events during Kennedy's presidency, including the Bay of Pigs invasion and the Cuban Missile Crisis.
On November 22, 1963, Hill was riding in the motorcade in Dallas, Texas, when shots were fired at the President's car. Hill immediately jumped onto the back of the car and shielded the President and First Lady with his body. He remained there until the car arrived at Parkland Memorial Hospital, where Kennedy was pronounced dead.
Later Career
After the assassination, Hill continued to work for the Secret Service and was later assigned to protect President Lyndon B. Johnson. He retired from the Secret Service in 1975 and worked in the private sector for several years.
In 2009, Hill co-authored a book with journalist Lisa McCubbin called "Mrs. Kennedy and Me," which detailed his experiences protecting First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy. He has since written several more books about his experiences in the Secret Service.
Awards and Honors
Hill has received numerous awards and honors for his service, including the Secret Service Distinguished Service Award and the National Intelligence Distinguished Service Medal. He was also inducted into the North Dakota Aviation Hall of Fame in 2015.
Conclusion
Clint Hill is a true American hero who dedicated his life to protecting the President and the First Family. His bravery and quick thinking during the Kennedy assassination will never be forgotten. Hill's legacy will continue to be an inspiration to future generations of Secret Service agents and to all Americans.