Clint Hill, the Secret Service Agent Who Tried to Protect JFK, Passes Away at 93

The nation mourns the loss of Clint Hill, a former Secret Service agent renowned for his heroic attempts to shield President John F. Kennedy during his tragic assassination in 1963. Hill has passed away at the age of 93, leaving behind a legacy of bravery and dedication.

His wife, Lisa McCubbin Hill, shared the news on Instagram, stating, “It is with a broken heart that I must announce the passing of my remarkable husband, Clint Hill. He died peacefully at home, in my arms, on February 21, 2025.”

According to the Associated Press, Hill died at his home in California. At the time of the assassination, Hill was just 31 years old and served as part of the security detail for first lady Jackie Kennedy.

The Historic Day

On November 22, 1963, Hill accompanied the Kennedy couple to Dallas, a pivotal trip that would soon turn into a nightmare. He became a figure of both history and tragedy as he was photographed leaping onto the vehicle that carried the President and First Lady, just moments after gunshots rang out.

In harrowing images from that day, Hill can be seen attempting to shield the First Lady as she crawled out of the convertible amidst chaos. This act of bravery has cemented his place in the narrative of one of the most significant events in American history.

“On November 22, 1963, three shots were fired in Dallas,” Hill remembered in a post on X, previously known as Twitter, marking the 61st anniversary of the assassination. He expressed the haunting memories of that day, saying, “The horrific images are still vivid. I was a 31-year-old unknown Secret Service agent, suddenly thrust into history. At 92, I have come to terms with my place in history. I tried. I was unsuccessful, but at least I tried.”

Legacy of Service and Reflection

After JFK’s assassination, Hill penned several memoirs that reflected on his experiences with the Kennedy family. His writings disclose the profound guilt he felt following the President’s untimely death. He often recalled the anguish that overshadowed his life in the years that followed.

In his memoir titled “My Travels with Mrs. Kennedy,” Hill wrote, “Guilt and anguish consumed me. All I could think about was Dallas.” His deep sense of responsibility compelled him to relive the moments of that fateful day, emphasizing his determination to protect the First Family.

His vivid recollections detail the frantic race to reach the vehicle. He recalled, “I was running as fast as I could, my arm reaching for the handholds on the trunk, but it was like my legs were in quicksand. Mrs. Kennedy climbing out of the back seat, her terrified eyes looking but not seeing me, like I wasn’t there.” These words encapsulate the desperation and urgency that defined that horrifying day.

A Wave of Tributes

Following the announcement of Hill’s passing, tributes began to flood in from various quarters, expressing condolences and admiration. Friends, family, and those who had worked with him remembered Hill not only as a national hero but also as a dedicated husband and friend.

His wife, Lisa, reflected on their life together, sharing, “From the moment we met, there was an undeniable spark between us. We had that once-in-a-lifetime love that everyone hopes for—a relationship filled with passion, respect, admiration, and the pure joy of being together. I am eternally grateful for every day and every moment of the past 15 years we shared. To us, forever. Rest in Peace my Sweet Prince.” This heartfelt tribute underlines the personal loss experienced by those closest to him.

Reflections on a Disturbing Legacy

The legacy of Clint Hill extends beyond his heroic actions during a pivotal moment in American history. He became a symbol of duty and dedication in the United States Secret Service. For many, his story serves as a reminder of the human cost associated with protecting national leaders.

As the nation reflects upon Hill’s contributions, the public is reminded of the fragility of life and the importance of valuing those who serve in dangerous positions to safeguard others. Hill’s life serves as a testament to the sacrifice and commitment required of public servants.

As we remember Hill today, it is essential to honor not just his actions on that tragic day but also the person he was in the years that followed—a man who lived with the weight of his experiences and shared them with future generations.