Clint Hill, the Secret Service agent renowned for his brave actions in shielding President John F. Kennedy and First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy during the fatal shooting in Dallas on November 22, 1963, has passed away. Hill’s courageous leap across the limousine to cover Mrs. Kennedy and protect the mortally wounded president became one of the defining moments of that tragic day.
The Secret Service released a statement honouring Hill’s unwavering dedication and exemplary service, recognising his career as an embodiment of the highest standards of public service. They expressed their sorrow at the loss of a respected colleague and cherished friend, whose legacy will be etched in the agency’s history.
On that fateful day, Hill, who was part of the first lady’s security detail, was positioned in the vehicle behind Kennedy’s as the motorcade passed through Dealey Plaza. When gunshots erupted, he instinctively jumped onto the limo’s back, focusing on the president and signalling to fellow agents to hold their positions. In the years that followed, Hill reflected on the harrowing events and often shared his feelings of torment over his perceived failure to protect Kennedy. He once stated, “I had a sense that we had a responsibility to protect the president that day, and we failed.”
Hill maintained that he was the only agent in a position to intervene. Haunted by the memory of that day, he felt profound regret over his inability to reach the president in time. He served as an agent under five U.S. presidents—Eisenhower, Johnson, Nixon, Ford, and notably, during the Kennedy administration. After experiencing severe post-traumatic stress from the assassination, he retired at the age of 43.
Born in Larimore, North Dakota, Hill’s distinguished service spanned critical moments in American history, including the Cold War, the Cuban Missile Crisis, the assassinations of both JFK and his brother RFK, Martin Luther King Jr., the Civil Rights Movement, the Vietnam War, and Watergate.
Hill is survived by his wife, Lisa McCubbin Hill, his sons, and grandchildren. His considerable contributions to the Secret Service and the nation will undoubtedly be remembered as part of his enduring legacy.