Clinton J. Hill, known as Clint Hill, was a dedicated U.S. Secret Service agent whose courageous actions during the assassination of President John F. Kennedy left an indelible mark on American history. Born on January 4, 1932, in Larimore, North Dakota, Hill's life was characterized by unwavering commitment to duty, profound personal sacrifice, and a relentless pursuit of excellence in service to his country.
Early Life and Career
Adopted at three months old by Chris and Jennie Hill, Clint was raised in Washburn, North Dakota. He excelled in academics and athletics, participating in football, basketball, and baseball during his high school years. After graduating from Washburn High School in 1950, Hill attended Concordia College in Moorhead, Minnesota, where he continued his athletic pursuits and earned a degree in history in 1954.
Following college, Hill was drafted into the U.S. Army. He received training as a Counterintelligence (CI) Special Agent and served until 1957. In 1958, Hill joined the Secret Service, starting in the Denver field office. His dedication and aptitude quickly led to his assignment on the elite White House Detail, where he was responsible for protecting President Dwight D. Eisenhower. With the election of President John F. Kennedy, Hill was tasked with the protection of First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy, a role that would forever change his life.
The Assassination of President Kennedy
On November 22, 1963, during a motorcade through Dallas, Texas, President Kennedy was fatally shot. Agent Hill was riding on the left front running board of the Secret Service follow-up car, directly behind the presidential limousine. Upon hearing the first gunshot, Hill instinctively ran toward the limousine. As he approached, a fatal shot struck President Kennedy. Hill leaped onto the back of the moving vehicle, shielding the President and First Lady with his body as the car sped to Parkland Memorial Hospital. Despite his valiant efforts, President Kennedy was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. Hill's quick response and bravery were captured in the infamous Zapruder film, etching his actions into the annals of history.
Aftermath and Personal Struggles
The events of that tragic day profoundly affected Hill. He remained assigned to Mrs. Kennedy and her children until after the 1964 presidential election. Subsequently, he served in various capacities, including protecting President Lyndon B. Johnson and later becoming the Special Agent in Charge of presidential protection during Johnson's administration. Hill's career continued with assignments under Presidents Richard Nixon and Gerald Ford, eventually rising to the position of Assistant Director of the Secret Service, responsible for all protective forces. However, the trauma of November 22, 1963, lingered. Hill grappled with feelings of guilt and depression, believing he could have done more to save President Kennedy. These emotions led to his early retirement in 1975.
Later Life and Legacy
In the years following his retirement, Hill sought to come to terms with the haunting memories of Dallas. He co-authored several books, including "Mrs. Kennedy and Me," "Five Days in November," and "Five Presidents: My Extraordinary Journey with Eisenhower, Kennedy, Johnson, Nixon, and Ford." These works provided intimate insights into his experiences and the challenges he faced. In 2018, Hill received North Dakota's highest civilian honor, the Theodore Roosevelt Rough Rider Award, recognizing his exceptional service and dedication. Clint Hill passed away on February 21, 2025, at his home in Belvedere, California, at the age of 93. His legacy endures as a testament to courage, duty, and the enduring impact of personal sacrifice in the service of others.
Comments