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HE CALLED HER MRS. KENNEDY. SHE CALLED HIM MR. HILL.
For four years, from the election of John Fitzgerald Kennedy in November 1960 until after the election of Lyndon Johnson in 1964, Clint Hill was the Secret Service agent assigned to guard the glamorous and intensely private Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy. During those four years, he went from being a reluctant guardian to a fiercely loyal watchdog and, in many ways, her closest friend.
Now, looking back fifty years, Clint Hill tells his story for the first time, offering a tender, enthralling, and tragic portrayal of how a Secret Service agent who started life in a North Dakota orphanage became the most trusted man in the life of the First Lady who captivated first the nation and then the world.
When he was initially assigned to the new First Lady, Agent Hill envisioned tea parties and gray-haired matrons. But as soon as he met her, he was swept up in the whirlwind of her beauty, her grace, her intelligence, her coy humor, her magnificent composure, and her extraordinary spirit.
From the start, the job was like no other, and Clint was by her side through the early days of JFK's presidency; the birth of sons John and Patrick and Patrick's sudden death; Kennedy-family holidays in Hyannis Port and Palm Beach; Jackie's trips to Europe, Asia, and South America; Jackie's intriguing meetings with men like Aristotle Onassis, Gianni Agnelli, and André Malraux; the dark days of the year that followed the assassination to the farewell party she threw for Clint when he left her protective detail after four years. All she wanted was the one thing he could not give her: a private life for her and her children.
Filled with unforgettable details, startling revelations, and sparkling, intimate moments, this is the once-in-a-lifetime story of a man doing the most exciting job in the world, with a woman all the world loved, and the tragedy that ended it all too soon— a tragedy that haunted him for fifty years.
Clint Hill is a former United States Secret Service agent who was in the presidential motorcade during the John F. Kennedy assassination. Hill remained assigned to Mrs. Kennedy and the children until after the 1964 presidential election. He then was assigned to President Lyndon B. Johnson at the White House. In 1967, when Johnson was still in office, he became the Special Agent in Charge (SAIC) of Presidential protection. When Richard Nixon came into office, he moved over to be the SAIC of the Vice Presidential Protective Division. In 1972, Hill was promoted to the position of Assistant Director of the Secret Service, responsible for all protective forces. He retired in 1975.
Lisa McCubbin is an award-winning journalist who has been a television news anchor and reporter, hosted her own radio show, and spent more than five years in the Middle East as a freelance writer. She is the coauthor of the New York Times bestseller, The Kennedy Detail. Visit her at LisaMcCubbin.com.
Part 1 1960
1 Meeting Mrs. Kennedy 3
2 The Family 14
3 A Palm Beach Christmas 29
Part 2 1961
4 Glen Ora 45
5 Traveling with Mrs. Kennedy: Paris 61
6 Traveling with Mrs. Kennedy: Greece 73
7 A Summer in Hyannis Port 86
8 Fall 1961 99
9 Another Palm Beach Christmas 112
Part 3 1962
10 Traveling with Mrs. Kennedy: India 125
11 Traveling with Mrs. Kennedy: Pakistan 135
12 André Malraux and Marilyn Monroe 150
13 Another Summer in Hyannis Port 157
14 Traveling with Mrs. Kennedy: Ravello 164
15 October Crisis 184
16 The Third Palm Beach Christmas 197
Part 4 1963
17 Mona Lisa and New York City 207
18 The Sunshine Highway 215
19 Camp David and the Kama Sutra 223
20 Losing Baby Patrick 235
21 Onassis and the Christina 248
22 Preparing for Texas 265
23 That Day in Dallas 272
24 Parkland Hospital 294
25 The Funeral 308
Part 5 After The White House
26 Our Final Year 325
Epilogue: May 1994 337
Acknowledgments 341
Photograph Credits 344
Bookworm3264
Posted April 6, 2012
One of the loveliest, most interesting books I've read in a long time. I read the book in two days--couldn't put it down. Agent Hill was just 28 years old when he first met then 31-year-old Jackie Kennedy, who was 8 months pregnant. Neither of them were too happy about being thrown together--Hill wanted to be on the President's Secret Service detail and thought the First Lady assignment felt like a demotion, while Jackie didn't like the idea of having someone around 24/7. Two weeks later, Agent Hill is there when Jackie gives birth to John, Jr. and sees the baby before President Kennedy. From this point on, you see the relationship between the two develop into a wonderful relationship. You can sense the chemistry between them, and how they become so close they can communicate just by looking at each other. The book is filled with marvelous, often funny anecdotes that take you around the world--to Italy, Pakistan, India, France and yes, to Greece, aboard Aristotle Onassis' yacht. No one knew Jackie Kennedy during this time better than Clint Hill, and he has written a beautiful memoir that reads like a love letter to the most iconic woman in American history. The other review seems to think this is a Secret Service book which--I guess it is because it is written by a Secret Service agent, but it is so much more than that--it is one of those books that will stay in your heart forever, having transported you back to a different era, a time that was filled with so much hope, before it ended in the tragic assassination of our nation's president. I'm buying a copy for my mother and grandmother for Mother's Day because I know they will appreciate it even more than me, having grown up in that era.
48 out of 49 people found this review helpful.
Was this review helpful? Yes NoThank you for your feedback. Report this reviewThank you, this review has been flagged.VincePalamara1
Posted March 31, 2012
OUTSTANDING: SECOND ONLY TO “WITHIN ARM’S LENGTH”!
I so wanted to dislike this book. As the leading civilian literary expert on the Secret Service, I had previously—-and rightfully—lambasted Lisa McCubbin’s prior effort entitled “The Kennedy Detail” for its rewriting of history, blaming JFK for his own death and putting words in the late president’s mouth that he never once uttered, as verified by the prior accounts of numerous top agents and White House aides, many of whom WERE there in Dallas (unlike former agent Gerald Blaine). As previously stated, it was my 22-page letter to former agent Clint Hill that angered him and his best friend to whom I had also spoken to, the aforementioned Blaine, that directly led to the writing of “The Kennedy Detail” and, by extension, the need to write a follow-up tome, “Mrs. Kennedy & Me” (whenever a book is even a mild best-seller, which their first effort was, it is almost a guarantee that, if there is any gas left in the tank, so to speak, a further literary work will be forthcoming). In fact, both agents Blaine and Hill debated the merits of my research on television and, if that weren’t enough, I was mentioned on pages 359-360 of “The Kennedy Detail” (without naming me, of course). One could argue several other pages refer to my work, directly or indirectly, but I digress from the matter at hand.
Simply put, “Mrs. Kennedy & Me” is stupendous: a literary home run, second only to another brand new work, the outstanding 2012 book “Within Arm’s Length” by former agent Dan Emmett, as attaining the mantle of being the greatest book on the Secret Service by a former agent ever to date (1865-2012 and counting). I almost cannot believe I am writing this but, alas, honesty prevails: Mr. Hill and Ms. McCubbin have alot to be proud of for this book—it is consistently everything “The Kennedy Detail” is not: truthful, honest, no axe to grind, not dry or boring, well written, and coming from the perspective of a brave and dedicated public servant who WAS truly there (to be fair, even “The Kennedy Detail”, and certainly the documentary it was based on, had its moments, although my judgment is rightfully clouded by what I and others feel are the purposeful untruths and propaganda contained throughout, as well as the exasperating third-person narrative interwoven throughout the book, making it hard to pin down exactly WHO was responsible for specific passages. President Kennedy did NOT order the agents off his limousine in Tampa, in Dallas, or anywhere else, for that matter- SAIC Behn, ASAIC Boring, ATSAIC Godfrey, many of their colleagues, and several prominent White House aides said so).
Do I still have misgivings about some of the agents on the Kennedy Detail? Sure; that will never change. Am I also an ardent admirer of the Secret Service? You bet: the agency has a whole lot to be proud of. Clint Hill at least TRIED to do something that fateful day inDallasand carried much guilt and depression over the sad events of that time and place. That is a whole lot more than several of his colleagues can lay claim to.
That aside, “Mrs. Kennedy & Me” is highly recommended to everyone for its honesty and rich body of true, first-hand accounts of guarding First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy. Too bad this book wasn’t even longer and “The Kennedy Detail” did not exist, but one cannot ask for everything. Please purchase this fine book as soon as possible!
30 out of 47 people found this review helpful.
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Posted April 9, 2012
Mr. Hill was, and remains, a true gentleman. This book is a quick read, well written, and thought provoking. It gives you a personal view of Mrs. Kennedy, without being gossipy or overly intrusive. In my opinion, Mr. Hill did not write this book for a “quick buck,” but because he truly cared about the story and this family. There are a few nuggets here and there where a reader could “read between the lines,” but the way it is written remains classy and not crass. This book would be great for a relaxing weekend or a beach vacation – once I started, I finished in one (long) sitting as I wanted to find out the next adventure (Mrs. Kennedy seemed to never be in D.C.). Thank you for your service Mr. Hill.
23 out of 23 people found this review helpful.
Was this review helpful? Yes NoThank you for your feedback. Report this reviewThank you, this review has been flagged.I really really enjoyed this book. I am very grateful Mr. Hill wrote it. I love history and love hearing every little detail over and over. President Kennedy was assasinated before I was born so I never really understood how everyone felt about him and now I do. This book has the highs and lows of any Shakespearean play. I also am grateful that Mr. Hill wrote it from a very respectful point of view. I don't need to hear all the gossip and guessings of small minded people. It has nothing to do with the history. Thank you Mr. Hill and I hope happiness finds you as many days as possible.
12 out of 14 people found this review helpful.
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Posted April 9, 2012
I have so much respect and admiration for Clint Hill. I felt every emotion, every laugh, and every painful memory he wrote about. Best memoir I have read.
Thank you, Mr. Hill, for giving us a vision of JBK through your eyes.
10 out of 10 people found this review helpful.
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Posted May 15, 2012
I wanted this book to last forever, until JFK's tragic death. I was a young teenager when this all occurred, and so viewing Jacqueline now as an adult was wonderful as seen through Agent Hill's eyes. What a gentleman he was and still is. It was wonderful to read about her life as a cultured, educated and refined first lady. I was so surprised at the end of the book to realize that there was only a span of about 3 hours between the shooting and the flying back to D.C. At the time they actually took place, I watched all those events through the eyes of news anchormen, and live television.......
So it was really nice to hear about the wonderful times, the happy times.....thank you so much Mr. Hill for coming forward to write this book, what a wonderful tribute to Mrs. Kennedy. I hope that Caroline is approving of this book--I am very glad to have read it.
8 out of 9 people found this review helpful.
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Posted April 13, 2012
I read this book in about 5 days. I couldn't put it down. It was like being transported into a different world. I laughed and cried and felt the pain of Mr. Hill and Mrs. Kennedy.
8 out of 10 people found this review helpful.
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Posted March 31, 2012
:)
8 out of 23 people found this review helpful.
Was this review helpful? Yes NoThank you for your feedback. Report this reviewThank you, this review has been flagged.I'm not one who usually reads non fiction but the Kennedy family has always sparked interest. I ordered Mrs Kennedy and Me on my nook and could not stop reading and absorbing the details of this well written book. Clint Hill tells a fascinating story of Jackie Kennedy from a different point of view. She was a legend in her time, a beautiful woman, devoted mother and wife and an avid lover of life. What I liked most about this book was that there was no "trash" and the story concentrated on Jackie and her life as first lady. Clint Hill was a constant in her life during this time and there was nothing he would not do for Mrs. Kennedy. (or at least he tried) She was full of adventure and variety and certainly was not cup of tea person. She thrived on life and gave America the first First Lady with class and charm so removed from her predecessors. The world loved her. Mr. Hill's descriptive narrative of the assassination brought back vivid memories of that day in November 1964 but reading it today in his words reawakened that day of horror. In closing I have a new found respect for the secret service men who put their own lives on hold to protect our presidents. I highly recommend this book and thank you Mr Hill for your well written page turning book. Do yourself a favor and read it.
7 out of 7 people found this review helpful.
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Posted April 10, 2012
Clint Hill was a true professional. I enjoyed reading history through his eyes.
7 out of 10 people found this review helpful.
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Posted April 9, 2012
I loved this book. So insightful into both Mrs Kennedy and the secret service. Things I never knew...I highly recommend this book.
7 out of 7 people found this review helpful.
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Posted April 22, 2012
This is one of the best books I have read in a long time and I am an avid reader. Thanks to Mr. Hill for sharing this incredible story! I never feel compelled to write a review but this book is the exception.
6 out of 7 people found this review helpful.
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Posted May 11, 2012
Such an insight into America's famous first family. The book helps you understand why and how Mrs. Kennedy became so reclusive until her children were grown. The constant struggle to have a normal family took it's toll on the entire family. The description of the day of the assassination will bring you to tears. And the reader's knowledge of the future death of Bobby Kennedy and young John Kennedy leaves you with a shadow of dread. What an amazing woman JBK was.
5 out of 6 people found this review helpful.
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Posted April 8, 2012
Slow read at first but the last two hundred pages make it worth it. If you are looking for the story of a secret service agent who is a true gentleman, this is the book for you.
5 out of 8 people found this review helpful.
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Posted April 14, 2012
Thank you, Mr. Clint Hill for this beautifully written book. I was 18 when we lost our President. Reading your book brought me back to that time of my life. I celebrated with you as I read about your warm relationship with Mrs. Kennedy and I cried as you so movingly wrote about your experience on that sad and tragic day. You did your best, you should be very proud of what you did and who you are. I LOVED this book. Thank you!
4 out of 4 people found this review helpful.
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Posted July 17, 2012
I was 7 years old on November 22, 1963 at home with my Mom. I remember her scream and that day ended a young president's too short term in office and changed the world forever. Mr. Hill's account of his life as a secret service agent to Jackie Kennedy is a tribute to the times and to both of them. Theres so much trash being written about the Kennedys these days its refreshing to read this. Its funny and tearful at times. How can you put yourself into the mind of Mr. Hill when he tells about the assassination. Clearly he was brave and couragous, not just the training kicking in. That he suffered its plain to see, but he did everything he knew how to do. It was a lucky 3 quick shots in an unpredectible situation by a crazy sharpshooter. But as to Jackie, I can get a feel for now, based on the type of person she was before and after the assassination. I always liked and respected her and even more so now. I will be reading this over alot through the years. Its a great book.
3 out of 3 people found this review helpful.
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Posted May 3, 2012
Everyone's reviews are spot on. This is a wonderful book that I recommend to anyone. However, no one mentions my favorite part of the book and I will not ruin for ones that have not read it. But I will say, I have always believed President Kennedy to be a true American partiot and now because of this book I believe Mrs. Kennedy to be one as well. My children and I would gladly stand with Mrs. Kennedy any day of the week on the south lawn. Thank you Mr. Hill for writing the book. It is now one of my all time favorite books.
3 out of 3 people found this review helpful.
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Posted May 2, 2012
Mrs Kennedy and Me shares an inside look into the first family on a personal level. Mr Hill takes the reader into the Kennedy White House not so much from a political view but shares the everyday personal life of Mrs. Kennedy as she struggles with being a public figure. An enjoyable read it is obvious that this book was written out of respect for the Kennedy family from someone who being in the Secret Service had first hand knowledge of the triumphs and tradgedies.
3 out of 3 people found this review helpful.
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Posted April 26, 2012
Beautiful, Lovely, Heartbreaking, and Interesting is how I choose to describe this book. This is written as a memoir, but is much more of a tribute. It is obvious his deep admiration for the Kennedy family and this book is a testimate to that. Mr Hill made you feel as somehow you were there in those moments with Mrs Kennedy, and I could not put this book down. And while you get a glimpse into the life of this extrodinary first lady, you also feel a deep admiration for Mr Hill, who unselfishly gave up so much time with his own family, to protect our first lady. Thank you Mr. HIll !
3 out of 3 people found this review helpful.
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Posted April 26, 2012
I felt every emotion right along with Mrs. Kennedy & Mr. Hill. This book will never leave me. I so enjoyed that this story told about the Kennedys as a family, not just the president & his wife. Thank you Mr. Hill.
3 out of 3 people found this review helpful.
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Overview
HE CALLED HER MRS. KENNEDY. SHE CALLED HIM MR. HILL.
For four years, from the election of John Fitzgerald Kennedy in November 1960 until after the election of Lyndon Johnson in 1964, Clint Hill was the Secret Service agent assigned to guard the glamorous and intensely private Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy. During those four years, he went from being a reluctant guardian to a fiercely loyal watchdog and, in many ways, her closest friend.
Now, ...