Book SummaryMrs. Kennedy and Me, by Clint Hill

1-Page Summary1-Page Book Summary of Mrs. Kennedy and Me

Clint Hill had the responsibility of safeguarding the Kennedy family, particularly Jacqueline Kennedy, throughout his service in the Secret Service.

The book begins by recounting the author's experiences while serving as a Secret Service agent assigned to safeguard Jacqueline Kennedy, detailing his initial reluctance, the development of their working relationship, and the various trips they undertook together.

Initially, Clint Hill had reservations about taking on his role in the Secret Service assigned to protect the First Lady.

In this section, Hill contemplates the unexpected elements of his assignment, which involved protecting the future First Lady and his initial reservations about the role. He recounts his life's journey, which includes both his professional and personal milestones, leading up to his role, and contrasts it with Mrs. Kennedy's markedly different way of life, highlighting his apprehensions regarding the protection of someone whose existence was vastly unlike his.

Drawing on a unique background of professional expertise, Clint Hill began his role as the personal guardian for Mrs. Kennedy.

Hill highlights the stark contrast between his own upbringing and Jacqueline Kennedy's. He fondly recalls growing up in a nurturing family setting in the charming farming town of Washburn, North Dakota, where he participated in numerous sports and academic activities. After finishing his education at Concordia College, Hill began his career in Denver with the Secret Service and later transitioned to the Presidential Protective Division in 1959. During his time on President Eisenhower's protective team, Hill traveled through multiple continents such as Europe, Asia, and South America, gaining considerable knowledge in the protection of international figures and understanding the complexities of presidential security.

Initially, Clint Hill was skeptical about his assignment and had formed certain assumptions about Mrs. Kennedy.

Hill openly shares his initial discomfort and surprise when he was unexpectedly tasked with the security detail for the First Lady after the 1960 election. He was annoyed by the prospect of being transferred from the President's protective detail, perceiving it as a demotion to a role with less excitement and fewer challenges. Initially, Clint Hill perceived Jacqueline Kennedy through the lens of her public image, which was heavily influenced by her association with fashion, high society, and the arts, but his perspective underwent a considerable transformation after he began working on her security team. Hill initially found it challenging to align his personal history and character with the requirements of safeguarding an individual from a world that was significantly different from his own familiar surroundings.

Clint Hill's professional relationship with Mrs. Kennedy deepened, leading to a growing fondness for her.

The narrative delves into the evolving relationship that develops into a genuine, respectful, and trusting connection between Jacqueline Kennedy and Clint Hill. Hill shares specific instances and conversations that altered his perspective, revealing the hidden strength and delicate feelings of Mrs. Kennedy, as well as her desire for a normal life despite her unique position as the First Lady.

The relationship and trust that evolved between Mrs. Kennedy and her protector, Clint Hill.

Hill narrates the development of his working relationship, highlighting mutual respect and an acknowledgment of their respective duties. He recalls their early conversations while walking along the C&O Canal towpath, discussing everything from security protocols to the local wildlife, and...

Mrs. Kennedy and Me Summary During President Kennedy's term, Clint grew close to the family.

The narrative explores the intimate familial interactions within the Kennedy clan, details the numerous projects led by Mrs. Kennedy, and recounts significant societal and political events that transpired throughout their tenure in the White House. Hill's constant presence allowed him to observe the intimate exchanges that molded the Kennedy family's public image.

Clint Hill often spent time with the Kennedy children.

Hill's narrative intertwines personal stories involving the Kennedy children, underscoring how children invariably influence the adults around them, including the agents tasked with their protection. The writer portrays the distinct personalities and temperaments of the offspring, emphasizing their deep connection with both mother and father, which reinforces his genuine dedication to their safety.

Clint Hill was woven deeply into the daily existence of Caroline and John.

Hill fondly recalls the periods he shared with the Kennedy offspring, reflecting on the affectionate and playful bond he formed with them. He shares memories of his everyday engagements with them, which included accompanying them on walks, building snow sculptures, teaching Caroline...

Mrs. Kennedy and Me Summary The assassination of President Kennedy and the turbulent aftermath.

In recounting the narrative, the author details the tragic occurrences in Dallas, focusing on his direct involvement in the assassination and the profound impact it had on him while he fulfilled his responsibility to escort Mrs. Kennedy and oversee the transportation of the president's body back to Washington.

Clint Hill offers an intimate recounting of the occurrences in Dallas.

Hill narrates the events with meticulous detail and a solemn tone, detailing each moment of the assassination, highlighting his proximity to the president, his desperate efforts to protect Mrs. Kennedy, and the anguish of witnessing the president sustain fatal injuries.

Clint Hill was positioned close to both President Kennedy and the First Lady at the time of the assassination.

Hill offers an in-depth narrative of his time in service, carefully recounting his exchanges with peers and his compliance with, as well as occasional departures from, the established security measures during his time escorting the procession of vehicles. He often opted to run alongside the presidential car instead of riding in the vehicle, providing extra protection for Mrs. Kennedy, particularly in the midst of...

Mrs. Kennedy and Me Summary Clint Hill continued to serve as Jacqueline Kennedy's personal security after her spouse's presidency, reflecting on the time he shared with the Kennedy family.

The narrative culminates with the author detailing his continued dedication to Mrs. Kennedy after the tragic event, narrating their transition to a different phase of life outside the White House, their extended farewell, and the enduring impact of their relationship. Hill presents a deeply moving viewpoint, shedding light on the journey through grief, healing, and the enduring resilience born from shared experiences.

Clint Hill was tasked with the responsibility of safeguarding Mrs. Kennedy and her children for a duration of one year following their time in the White House.

Hill details his continuous duty to protect the well-being of Mrs. Kennedy and her children after they left the White House, highlighting his understanding of her worries, his commitment to maintaining her secrecy, and his resolve to ensure the security of her offspring.

Clint Hill consistently played a pivotal role during the numerous relocations of the Kennedy family.

Hill describes the challenging transition to a life outside the White House, which involved moving to a property in Georgetown owned by the Harrimans, then purchasing a home nearby, and finally establishing a permanent home in...