Clint Hill, the Secret Service agent who leaped onto the back of President John F. Kennedy’s limousine after the president was shot, then was forced to retire early because he remained haunted by memories of the assassination, has died at the age of 93.
Although few may recognize his name, the footage of Hill, captured on Abraham Zapruder’s chilling home movie of the assassination, provided some of the most indelible images of Kennedy’s tragic end in Dallas on Nov. 22, 1963.
Protecting JFK
On the day of the assassination, Hill was assigned to protect first lady Jacqueline Kennedy and was riding on the left running board of the follow-up car directly behind the presidential limousine as it made its way through Dealey Plaza.
Hill reacted after hearing a shot and seeing the president slump in his seat. The president was struck by a fatal headshot before Hill could reach the limousine.
Zapruder’s film captured Hill as he leaped from the Secret Service car, grabbed a handle on the limousine’s trunk, and pulled himself onto it as the driver accelerated.
Legacy and Healing
Hill received Secret Service awards and promotions for his actions that day but struggled with survivor’s guilt. In his later years, he was able to start healing and accept what happened.
Decades after the assassination, Hill co-authored several books about his Secret Service years, including “Mrs. Kennedy and Me” and “Five Presidents,” with Lisa McCubbin Hill, whom he married in 2021.
Clint Hill’s bravery and dedication to duty during one of America’s darkest moments will always be remembered.
