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The Kennedy Detail: JFK's Secret Service Agents Break Their Silence
THE SECRET SERVICE. An elite team of men who share a single to protect the president of the United States. On November 22, 1963, these men failed—and a country would never be the same. Now, for the first time, a member of JFK’s Secret Service detail reveals the inside story of the assassination, the weeks and days that led to it and its heartrending aftermath. This extraordinary book is a moving, intimate portrait of dedication, courage, and loss.
Drawing on the memories of his fellow agents, Jerry Blaine captures the energetic, crowd-loving young president, who banned agents from his car and often plunged into raucous crowds with little warning. He describes the careful planning that went into JFK’s Texas swing, the worries and concerns that agents, working long hours with little food or rest, had during the trip. And he describes the intensely private first lady making her first-ever political appearance with her husband, just months after losing a newborn baby.
Here are vivid scenes that could come only from inside the Kennedy JFK’s last words to his tearful son when he left Washington for the last time; how a sudden change of weather led to the choice of the open-air convertible limousine that day; Mrs. Kennedy standing blood-soaked outside a Dallas hospital room; the sudden interruption of six-year-old Caroline’s long-anticipated sleepover with a friend at home; the exhausted team of agents immediately reacting to the president’s death with a shift to LBJ and other key governmental figures; the agents’ dismay at Jackie’s decision to walk openly from the White House to St. Matthew’s Cathedral at the state funeral.
Most of all, this is a look into the lives of men who devoted their entire beings to protecting the presidential the stress of the secrecy they kept, the emotional bonds that developed, the terrible impact on agents’ psyches and families, and their astonishment at the country’s obsession with far-fetched conspiracy theories and finger-pointing. A book fifty years in coming, The Kennedy Detail is a portrait of incredible camaraderie and incredible heartbreak—a true, must-read story of heroism in its most complex and human form.
***
A medic burst out of the trauma room, and instinctively Clint Hill took a step toward Mrs. Kennedy. “He’s still breathing,” the man said as he rushed past. Mrs. Kennedy stood up. “Do you mean he may live?” she asked.
No one answered.
Kellerman handed the phone back to Hill and rushed back into the trauma room.
“Clint, what happened?” Jerry Behn asked earnestly.
“Shots fired during the motorcade,” Clint said as he kept an eye on Mrs. Kennedy across the hall. “It all happened so fast. We were five minutes away from the Trade Mart. . . . The situation is critical. Jerry, prepare for the worst. . . .”
The operator cut into the line, “Attorney General Robert Kennedy wants to talk to Agent Hill.”
“What’s going on down there?!” Bobby Kennedy demanded.
“Shots fired during the motorcade,” Clint repeated. “The president is very seriously injured. They’re working on him now. Governor Connally was hit too.”
“Well, what do you mean, seriously injured? How serious?”
Clint swallowed hard. It was all he could do to keep it together. “It’s as bad as it can get.”
—From The Kennedy JFK’s Secret Service Agents Break Their Silence
Drawing on the memories of his fellow agents, Jerry Blaine captures the energetic, crowd-loving young president, who banned agents from his car and often plunged into raucous crowds with little warning. He describes the careful planning that went into JFK’s Texas swing, the worries and concerns that agents, working long hours with little food or rest, had during the trip. And he describes the intensely private first lady making her first-ever political appearance with her husband, just months after losing a newborn baby.
Here are vivid scenes that could come only from inside the Kennedy JFK’s last words to his tearful son when he left Washington for the last time; how a sudden change of weather led to the choice of the open-air convertible limousine that day; Mrs. Kennedy standing blood-soaked outside a Dallas hospital room; the sudden interruption of six-year-old Caroline’s long-anticipated sleepover with a friend at home; the exhausted team of agents immediately reacting to the president’s death with a shift to LBJ and other key governmental figures; the agents’ dismay at Jackie’s decision to walk openly from the White House to St. Matthew’s Cathedral at the state funeral.
Most of all, this is a look into the lives of men who devoted their entire beings to protecting the presidential the stress of the secrecy they kept, the emotional bonds that developed, the terrible impact on agents’ psyches and families, and their astonishment at the country’s obsession with far-fetched conspiracy theories and finger-pointing. A book fifty years in coming, The Kennedy Detail is a portrait of incredible camaraderie and incredible heartbreak—a true, must-read story of heroism in its most complex and human form.
***
A medic burst out of the trauma room, and instinctively Clint Hill took a step toward Mrs. Kennedy. “He’s still breathing,” the man said as he rushed past. Mrs. Kennedy stood up. “Do you mean he may live?” she asked.
No one answered.
Kellerman handed the phone back to Hill and rushed back into the trauma room.
“Clint, what happened?” Jerry Behn asked earnestly.
“Shots fired during the motorcade,” Clint said as he kept an eye on Mrs. Kennedy across the hall. “It all happened so fast. We were five minutes away from the Trade Mart. . . . The situation is critical. Jerry, prepare for the worst. . . .”
The operator cut into the line, “Attorney General Robert Kennedy wants to talk to Agent Hill.”
“What’s going on down there?!” Bobby Kennedy demanded.
“Shots fired during the motorcade,” Clint repeated. “The president is very seriously injured. They’re working on him now. Governor Connally was hit too.”
“Well, what do you mean, seriously injured? How serious?”
Clint swallowed hard. It was all he could do to keep it together. “It’s as bad as it can get.”
—From The Kennedy JFK’s Secret Service Agents Break Their Silence
427 pages, Hardcover
First published October 25, 2010
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4485 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 360 reviews
March 10, 2016
I wrote the Foreword to this book and contributed information to the authors, Gerald Blaine and Lisa McCubbin. My stipulation in being involved was that I could review the book and that there be no salacious material or gossip. Lisa McCubbin did a remarkable job writing about the events surrounding the assassination of President Kennedy from the perspective of the Secret Service agents. Unlike other books that are based on theory, this book is based on factual evidence and first hand eyewitness accounts. Those of us on the Kennedy Detail were a band of brothers and I think that camaraderie comes through in the book.
December 7, 2010
A pretty compelling account of the Kennedy assassination by the Secret Service agents themselves. I'm convinced: one gunman (Oswald), three bullets, no government conspiracy. The book doesn't address Oswald's motives in detail, as the Secret Service agents have no particular insight into that. Well-written and super detailed. Excellent history of this tragic event, with great background information.
February 4, 2013
Five stars, absolutely. And here is why! I began my research (1980) into the Assassination after the HSCA released its’ findings around 1979 I think it was. My Assassination library is extensive. By 1980 I had been in Law Enforcement 4 years. I had an understanding of how investigations come together, how the physical evidence relates to the case, what is needed to complete an investigation and most of all the ability to separate true needed facts from what is interesting, but not really relevant (the last 7 words of the previous sentence resound through many books and theories perpetrated by dozens as “investigation” into the Assassination). Little did I know then that my research (which included a visit in 1994 to Dealey Plaza, The Book Depository, Oak Cliff, North Beckley St, 10th & Patton and The Texas Theater) would continue, albeit at different levels, for the next 33 years.
Reading and research. Patience and time. I quickly found most written works focused on “what is interesting, but not really relevant”. The……what…… maybe a dozen or so different theories of what happened, who was involved, i.e. bums from a train car, sniper in the sewer, grassy knoll fence, overpass, Dal-Tex Bldg., Mafia, Agent Greer, Agent Hickey…etc. It seemed absolutely ridiculous that anyone could lend credibility to all these many “theories”.
Think about it, doesn’t it seem profoundly ridiculous that every one of these dozen or so final analyses conducted by intelligent people (Note: most had no skill in legal investigations) have a different final word on what happened.
There is but only one conclusion that is fact based if you do your own thorough, unbiased research. Researching this case will not be easy, it cannot be done in a few days. There is much material to sift through, much of it is interesting, but not really relevant. You must have the ability to determine what is needed in an investigation of this nature. Lacking that ability can easily take one off into an interesting, but not really relevant vein. There are many “veins” in this case. There is but one fact based conclusion to this homicide investigation. The Dallas Police apprehended the right person.
During the course of my investigation/research the one thing that soon occurred to me was the lack of any in depth public book/story involving the Secret Service Agents from that day. From a Law Enforcement perspective, I always thought I would like to have seen an in depth account of what they saw and experienced during that time. Sure there are some statements and investigative/research blurbs in The Warren report, Manchesters book, Roberts book and a few others. One tv interview with Clint Hill in 1975. All in all I wanted more, I knew there had to be more. I had my own ideas as to why there wasn’t more.
When I first heard about The Kennedy Detail I was personally excited and gratified that this was finally done. However honestly, I did not know much about Jerry Blaine. I quickly found that Clint Hill was involved and of course, I knew who he was. I went out, bought the book and began reading what I hoped would be the piece of research that I always desired to know. A piece of research that I felt was crucially needed. I finished the Book in four days. When I finished the Book, I knew exactly who Jerry Blaine was.
There are but a few historically significant books on the subject of the Assassination and this one is at the top of the list. This Book is a deeply personal experience from the men who lived it. They were there. I believe to really “get it”…..that is to say completely understand the meaning of this book number one you have to believe in the integrity of the writer and those involved. The integrity of these men, all the Agents, is above reproach! These clearly were dedicated, honorable men that swore to an oath and upheld it. We must understand that this oath meant something; it meant honor, integrity, honesty, sacrifice and respect for the position. This Book is a true and factual account. When this is blended with the true facts of this case the reader comes away with the feeling that the circle is complete. History is now complete and an accurate historical aspect is clearly and honestly laid out.
I have read other reviews on this forum, I disagree with a few. One in particular has taken off on the interesting but not really relevant vein and has chosen to ignore fact based research. The fact that President Kennedy used the Lincoln bubble top on many prior occasions DOES NOT prove anything with regard to Tampa and Dallas. The fact that President Kennedy on many prior occasions allowed Agents to ride on or run beside the Presidential Limousine DOES NOT prove anything with regard to Tampa and Dallas. The Presidents’ mindset along with his assistants was different for Tampa and Dallas. He especially wanted to be seen and wanted Mrs. Kennedy (in Dallas) to be seen. His chief assistant O’Donnell made the call on the morning of the 22nd to leave the bubble top off because he knew that is what the President wanted. This information is not coming from me, those who wish to research these topics will find them in several factual sources. The Agents were requested to stay off the rear of the Presidential Limousine, this IS what the President wanted and he wanted it especially for this motorcade on the 22nd.
Pure fate took its’ course that day. The rain stopped and the skies cleared. The rain stopped and the skies cleared!!!
Pure fate took its course that day. Just the way many American tragedies had before and after the 22nd. Every historical American tragedy can be armchair quarterbacked. Realistically, in life things just happen. The most brilliant minds in America could not prevent pure fate from taking its course in history: the 3 astronauts in ‘67…….the Space Shuttle disasters in ‘86 and ’03. But for pure luck we did not lose President Reagan at the hands of Hinckley. Imagine the books and finger pointing, and the conspiracy theories that would have arisen had He died that day. But for pure luck, we did not lose President Ford at the hands of a gun wielding Fromme. The unpredictable nature of the human being will surely be the source for American tragedies yet to come. They too will not be prevented.
Every American owes a deep sense of gratitude to Jerry Blaine, Clint Hill and all the Secret Service Agents that contributed to this historically significant book, they should be respected and admired.
Pure fate reared its head that day in November and gave all of us another American tragedy that CANNOT be blamed on anyone other than Lee Harvey Oswald.
This Book gets 5 Stars+, you better believe it; Thank you Jerry, Clint and Lisa for this needed chapter of American History
Reading and research. Patience and time. I quickly found most written works focused on “what is interesting, but not really relevant”. The……what…… maybe a dozen or so different theories of what happened, who was involved, i.e. bums from a train car, sniper in the sewer, grassy knoll fence, overpass, Dal-Tex Bldg., Mafia, Agent Greer, Agent Hickey…etc. It seemed absolutely ridiculous that anyone could lend credibility to all these many “theories”.
Think about it, doesn’t it seem profoundly ridiculous that every one of these dozen or so final analyses conducted by intelligent people (Note: most had no skill in legal investigations) have a different final word on what happened.
There is but only one conclusion that is fact based if you do your own thorough, unbiased research. Researching this case will not be easy, it cannot be done in a few days. There is much material to sift through, much of it is interesting, but not really relevant. You must have the ability to determine what is needed in an investigation of this nature. Lacking that ability can easily take one off into an interesting, but not really relevant vein. There are many “veins” in this case. There is but one fact based conclusion to this homicide investigation. The Dallas Police apprehended the right person.
During the course of my investigation/research the one thing that soon occurred to me was the lack of any in depth public book/story involving the Secret Service Agents from that day. From a Law Enforcement perspective, I always thought I would like to have seen an in depth account of what they saw and experienced during that time. Sure there are some statements and investigative/research blurbs in The Warren report, Manchesters book, Roberts book and a few others. One tv interview with Clint Hill in 1975. All in all I wanted more, I knew there had to be more. I had my own ideas as to why there wasn’t more.
When I first heard about The Kennedy Detail I was personally excited and gratified that this was finally done. However honestly, I did not know much about Jerry Blaine. I quickly found that Clint Hill was involved and of course, I knew who he was. I went out, bought the book and began reading what I hoped would be the piece of research that I always desired to know. A piece of research that I felt was crucially needed. I finished the Book in four days. When I finished the Book, I knew exactly who Jerry Blaine was.
There are but a few historically significant books on the subject of the Assassination and this one is at the top of the list. This Book is a deeply personal experience from the men who lived it. They were there. I believe to really “get it”…..that is to say completely understand the meaning of this book number one you have to believe in the integrity of the writer and those involved. The integrity of these men, all the Agents, is above reproach! These clearly were dedicated, honorable men that swore to an oath and upheld it. We must understand that this oath meant something; it meant honor, integrity, honesty, sacrifice and respect for the position. This Book is a true and factual account. When this is blended with the true facts of this case the reader comes away with the feeling that the circle is complete. History is now complete and an accurate historical aspect is clearly and honestly laid out.
I have read other reviews on this forum, I disagree with a few. One in particular has taken off on the interesting but not really relevant vein and has chosen to ignore fact based research. The fact that President Kennedy used the Lincoln bubble top on many prior occasions DOES NOT prove anything with regard to Tampa and Dallas. The fact that President Kennedy on many prior occasions allowed Agents to ride on or run beside the Presidential Limousine DOES NOT prove anything with regard to Tampa and Dallas. The Presidents’ mindset along with his assistants was different for Tampa and Dallas. He especially wanted to be seen and wanted Mrs. Kennedy (in Dallas) to be seen. His chief assistant O’Donnell made the call on the morning of the 22nd to leave the bubble top off because he knew that is what the President wanted. This information is not coming from me, those who wish to research these topics will find them in several factual sources. The Agents were requested to stay off the rear of the Presidential Limousine, this IS what the President wanted and he wanted it especially for this motorcade on the 22nd.
Pure fate took its’ course that day. The rain stopped and the skies cleared. The rain stopped and the skies cleared!!!
Pure fate took its course that day. Just the way many American tragedies had before and after the 22nd. Every historical American tragedy can be armchair quarterbacked. Realistically, in life things just happen. The most brilliant minds in America could not prevent pure fate from taking its course in history: the 3 astronauts in ‘67…….the Space Shuttle disasters in ‘86 and ’03. But for pure luck we did not lose President Reagan at the hands of Hinckley. Imagine the books and finger pointing, and the conspiracy theories that would have arisen had He died that day. But for pure luck, we did not lose President Ford at the hands of a gun wielding Fromme. The unpredictable nature of the human being will surely be the source for American tragedies yet to come. They too will not be prevented.
Every American owes a deep sense of gratitude to Jerry Blaine, Clint Hill and all the Secret Service Agents that contributed to this historically significant book, they should be respected and admired.
Pure fate reared its head that day in November and gave all of us another American tragedy that CANNOT be blamed on anyone other than Lee Harvey Oswald.
This Book gets 5 Stars+, you better believe it; Thank you Jerry, Clint and Lisa for this needed chapter of American History
January 17, 2018
Can I give this book 10 Stars, I mean really? For a battle for best book I have ever read in my life it would be at the top. Not only am I a historian, and political scientist, I am a citizen of the United States, unfortunately for me I am only 33 years old so I was not alive in 1963 when the subject of this book occurred. And maybe this is a good thing. In reading this book though, I feel like I WAS there.
Where do I begin? How I learned JFK was so much more than a Politician? He was a human being? He had a sense of humor? He tried to learn all of his Secret Service Agent's names and their familie's names too? He wanted to be among the people, in an open car, reaching his hands into the crowd shaking hands- really he was a Secret Service nightmare in protecting him. But that is just who he was. He was a real, down to earth, person. Even when he was in severe pain, he rode in his motorcades and greeted the people. He went to the South where he was not in favor with very many people at all because he was a Democrat. Following the events in Cuba- with the Bay of Pigs Fiasco. And even in Texas, his own Vice President's State that they barely got enough votes from in the election.
How I learned a Secret Service Agent's most important duty is protecting the Office of the President. How before Kennedy- they didn't protect Presidential Candidates. These are people that are born and bred to follow orders, put their lives on the line day in and day out, physically and emotionally exhaust themselves day in and day out, just to do their jobs. But to these Agents- President Kennedy wasn't just a job- he was their friend.
When people think of the Kennedy Assassination- they just look at what they THINK happened. These agents referenced in this book were there. They were sitting with the President and Mrs. Kennedy, they were in the car ahead of him, or the car behind him. They had been planning his trip to Dallas for over a month. They did the route the motorcade traveled time after time indicating every risk there was possible- or so they thought.
They unfortunately were not God, and could not control the weather. And that day, being the person of the people he was, Kennedy wanted the top down on the Presidential Convertible. Their biggest nightmares had come true. He was a lame duck. There were so many buildings with open windows, so many people. In the prearrangement they had gone over Kennedy's biggest threats in Texas. And made sure most of them were contained. There was no mention of Oswald- til after the events occurred.
Three shots, and every single person there can remember them all. The first one they thought was a fire cracker going off until they saw Kennedy reach for his neck, then the Governor of Texas slumped over in his seat- he had been hit in the back- then the third shot- the part that gave me an anxiety attack reading this all play out. The back of President Kennedy's head was blown off. Jackie Kennedy was literally holding pieces of her husband's skull and brain in her hands. Agent Clint Hill had gotten there a fraction of a second too late.
They made their way to the closest hospital that wasn't even prepared for their arrival? Here's the President of the United States and the Governor of Texas that have both been wounded and there were no stretchers waiting for them when they arrived at the hospital- this still shocks me. The Agents that stayed with Jackie as she refused to leave Jack's side the entire time the Drs fought for his life.
Then the one whom had to tell her he had not made it. The one who had to tell LBJ he was now the President. And LBJ refusing to take Air Force One back to Washington because he is not the President, and refusing to be sworn in until Jackie can be there. It was all so intense.
Moving on I don't want to tell the entire book here in my review- but the part that shredded my heart and had me in tears came towards the very end. Clint Hill telling about his interview with 60 Minutes and how even 12 years after the Assassination, none of the agents that were there had ever discussed it with each other, and most certainly not with their families- that was against code. And he is being interviewed by Mike Wallace and completely falls apart- thinking it should have been him, if he had gotten there fractions of a second before the third shot, Kennedy would have made it and he would not be here to tell the story himself. Then he fell into a life of alcohol and cigarettes, but his fellow agents got him help. They all helped each other. They had to live with this one event the rest of their lives, and they could only share it with each other.
Jerry Baine, felt he owed the public this book. We all needed to know the true story of what happened that day in Dallas. He throws aside all the Conspiracy theories and gets to the facts he knows from himself and his fellow agents.
This book will impact me the rest of my life too. I've always been fascinated by Kennedy's assassination but THIS BOOK, this EYE WITNESS ACCOUNT from the men whose jobs it was to protect the President's life- and their feelings of failure when they could not do so. This will stick with me forever.
Should you read it? Yes and tell everyone you know to read it. BEST BOOK I HAVE READ IN AGES. And it's Non-Fiction!
Where do I begin? How I learned JFK was so much more than a Politician? He was a human being? He had a sense of humor? He tried to learn all of his Secret Service Agent's names and their familie's names too? He wanted to be among the people, in an open car, reaching his hands into the crowd shaking hands- really he was a Secret Service nightmare in protecting him. But that is just who he was. He was a real, down to earth, person. Even when he was in severe pain, he rode in his motorcades and greeted the people. He went to the South where he was not in favor with very many people at all because he was a Democrat. Following the events in Cuba- with the Bay of Pigs Fiasco. And even in Texas, his own Vice President's State that they barely got enough votes from in the election.
How I learned a Secret Service Agent's most important duty is protecting the Office of the President. How before Kennedy- they didn't protect Presidential Candidates. These are people that are born and bred to follow orders, put their lives on the line day in and day out, physically and emotionally exhaust themselves day in and day out, just to do their jobs. But to these Agents- President Kennedy wasn't just a job- he was their friend.
When people think of the Kennedy Assassination- they just look at what they THINK happened. These agents referenced in this book were there. They were sitting with the President and Mrs. Kennedy, they were in the car ahead of him, or the car behind him. They had been planning his trip to Dallas for over a month. They did the route the motorcade traveled time after time indicating every risk there was possible- or so they thought.
They unfortunately were not God, and could not control the weather. And that day, being the person of the people he was, Kennedy wanted the top down on the Presidential Convertible. Their biggest nightmares had come true. He was a lame duck. There were so many buildings with open windows, so many people. In the prearrangement they had gone over Kennedy's biggest threats in Texas. And made sure most of them were contained. There was no mention of Oswald- til after the events occurred.
Three shots, and every single person there can remember them all. The first one they thought was a fire cracker going off until they saw Kennedy reach for his neck, then the Governor of Texas slumped over in his seat- he had been hit in the back- then the third shot- the part that gave me an anxiety attack reading this all play out. The back of President Kennedy's head was blown off. Jackie Kennedy was literally holding pieces of her husband's skull and brain in her hands. Agent Clint Hill had gotten there a fraction of a second too late.
They made their way to the closest hospital that wasn't even prepared for their arrival? Here's the President of the United States and the Governor of Texas that have both been wounded and there were no stretchers waiting for them when they arrived at the hospital- this still shocks me. The Agents that stayed with Jackie as she refused to leave Jack's side the entire time the Drs fought for his life.
Then the one whom had to tell her he had not made it. The one who had to tell LBJ he was now the President. And LBJ refusing to take Air Force One back to Washington because he is not the President, and refusing to be sworn in until Jackie can be there. It was all so intense.
Moving on I don't want to tell the entire book here in my review- but the part that shredded my heart and had me in tears came towards the very end. Clint Hill telling about his interview with 60 Minutes and how even 12 years after the Assassination, none of the agents that were there had ever discussed it with each other, and most certainly not with their families- that was against code. And he is being interviewed by Mike Wallace and completely falls apart- thinking it should have been him, if he had gotten there fractions of a second before the third shot, Kennedy would have made it and he would not be here to tell the story himself. Then he fell into a life of alcohol and cigarettes, but his fellow agents got him help. They all helped each other. They had to live with this one event the rest of their lives, and they could only share it with each other.
Jerry Baine, felt he owed the public this book. We all needed to know the true story of what happened that day in Dallas. He throws aside all the Conspiracy theories and gets to the facts he knows from himself and his fellow agents.
This book will impact me the rest of my life too. I've always been fascinated by Kennedy's assassination but THIS BOOK, this EYE WITNESS ACCOUNT from the men whose jobs it was to protect the President's life- and their feelings of failure when they could not do so. This will stick with me forever.
Should you read it? Yes and tell everyone you know to read it. BEST BOOK I HAVE READ IN AGES. And it's Non-Fiction!
November 9, 2022
This is without doubt one of the worst accounts of the assassination I've even encountered (and I've read quite a few). Gerald Blaine, who was on the Kennedy Secret Service detail, spends the first section of the book lauding himself for his courage to write the story. He spends the next section of the book lauding how brave and wonderful all of the secret service agents were. Throughout these sections he adds superfluous dialogue (recreated after 45 years) that are supposed to add a human touch to the book but instead seem silly and pointless. For example, there are myriad places where the author adds dialogue about agents saying "hi" to each other or talking about the weather (using "he said" repeatedly). The author is also overly prone to cliches and hyperbole. On numerous occasions he talks about the agents "knowing" President Kennedy "like a brother" or of agents knowing the Kennedy children as well as they knew their own children. Any Kennedy scholar will tell you that that was not the Kennedy way; the family was warm and kind but also carefully distant from outsiders and White House staff. The author even equates the secret service agents' loss of President Kennedy to that of Mrs. Kennedy, Robert Kennedy, and President Kennedy's closest friends and aids. Such hyperbole detracts from the magnitude of the tragedy and the seriousness readers should take from this account.
What might be most disturbing about the book--an issue that also differentiates it from Clint Hill's far better account--is that the author never wants the Secret Service to take any responsibility for Kennedy's death. Blaine repeatedly heaps praise on the service but conveniently ignores a crucial detail: they failed miserably in their sole mission. Only Clint Hill seems to have shown any remorse or guilt, and he was in Dallas that day to protect Mrs. Kennedy.
This book is a waste of time. There are many other accounts--namely that of Hill--that are far better, more balanced, and far less cheesy.
The unabridged audio book is even worse. The narrator has the voice and inflections of a cheesy movie-trailer voice actor—one that just doesn't fit the context. Worse, he reads a sentence and then there's a huge, audible sucking in of air. And despite 60+ years of Caroline Kennedy’s notoriety and public service, the narrator never seems to have grasped how to pronounce her name correctly!
What might be most disturbing about the book--an issue that also differentiates it from Clint Hill's far better account--is that the author never wants the Secret Service to take any responsibility for Kennedy's death. Blaine repeatedly heaps praise on the service but conveniently ignores a crucial detail: they failed miserably in their sole mission. Only Clint Hill seems to have shown any remorse or guilt, and he was in Dallas that day to protect Mrs. Kennedy.
This book is a waste of time. There are many other accounts--namely that of Hill--that are far better, more balanced, and far less cheesy.
The unabridged audio book is even worse. The narrator has the voice and inflections of a cheesy movie-trailer voice actor—one that just doesn't fit the context. Worse, he reads a sentence and then there's a huge, audible sucking in of air. And despite 60+ years of Caroline Kennedy’s notoriety and public service, the narrator never seems to have grasped how to pronounce her name correctly!
November 22, 2014
Fifty-one years ago President Kennedy was assassinated. For many years the Secret Service have maintained their silence about that day. Their job was to protect the president, and they had failed. Their feelings of loss and failure had to be buried because they still had a job to do, they had to protect the new president. Since most of what happened in their job was confidential they couldn’t even talk to family members about their feelings.
There is much controversy concerning the assassination of John Kennedy. Was it conspiracy? Was there more than one shooter? Did Oswald even fire a shot? Just this week there is a show about a mafia hit man who confessed to shooting John Kennedy from the ‘grassy knoll’. These theories are briefly mentioned along with the belief that the Dallas police got the right guy, but the focus of this book is the Secret Service agents, the men who had to be “Worthy of Trust and Confidence”.
With the personal accounts of other agents, made possible because of the extensive records they were required to keep and most of the agents saved we learn many intimate details about the president, first lady and agents. The agents had to adjust to fit the new personality of the presidents. Eisenhower was a former military man who treated the Secret Service agents as if they were soldiers standing post. He didn’t take unnecessary risks and ran things with military precision. Kennedy was completely different. He was the youngest man elected president, he had a wife and young children. He was popular and loved interacting with people. Which caused many security headaches for the Secret Service.
These facts are all brought out in great detail in this book. Along with many personal details witnessed only by Secret Service agents such as Kennedy’s last words to his young son when leaving Washington and why the President and First Lady were in a convertible on the motorcade. Overall I was impressed at how the Agents balanced being considerate of people’s feelings while never losing sight of their responsibilities and maintaining their professionalism.
It also helps us to understand the great stress they were under, how they had to adjust instantly from protecting Kennedy to protecting Johnson. How they had to keep secret everything they witnessed while on the job, and how the agents had to work so closely as a team. Also the extreme feeling of guilt they carried with them after the assassination, even the agents who weren’t in the motorcade felt some sense of guilt.
If you are a conspiracy theorist you will probably not like this book, if you are interested in the life and death of JFK, or want to learn about the inner workings of the presidency and the secret service, this is the book for you.
There is much controversy concerning the assassination of John Kennedy. Was it conspiracy? Was there more than one shooter? Did Oswald even fire a shot? Just this week there is a show about a mafia hit man who confessed to shooting John Kennedy from the ‘grassy knoll’. These theories are briefly mentioned along with the belief that the Dallas police got the right guy, but the focus of this book is the Secret Service agents, the men who had to be “Worthy of Trust and Confidence”.
With the personal accounts of other agents, made possible because of the extensive records they were required to keep and most of the agents saved we learn many intimate details about the president, first lady and agents. The agents had to adjust to fit the new personality of the presidents. Eisenhower was a former military man who treated the Secret Service agents as if they were soldiers standing post. He didn’t take unnecessary risks and ran things with military precision. Kennedy was completely different. He was the youngest man elected president, he had a wife and young children. He was popular and loved interacting with people. Which caused many security headaches for the Secret Service.
These facts are all brought out in great detail in this book. Along with many personal details witnessed only by Secret Service agents such as Kennedy’s last words to his young son when leaving Washington and why the President and First Lady were in a convertible on the motorcade. Overall I was impressed at how the Agents balanced being considerate of people’s feelings while never losing sight of their responsibilities and maintaining their professionalism.
It also helps us to understand the great stress they were under, how they had to adjust instantly from protecting Kennedy to protecting Johnson. How they had to keep secret everything they witnessed while on the job, and how the agents had to work so closely as a team. Also the extreme feeling of guilt they carried with them after the assassination, even the agents who weren’t in the motorcade felt some sense of guilt.
If you are a conspiracy theorist you will probably not like this book, if you are interested in the life and death of JFK, or want to learn about the inner workings of the presidency and the secret service, this is the book for you.
March 25, 2011
I do not know why these individuals have waited 48 years to talk about what happened that day. However, in a positive light it offers unique insight into what it was like to work with President Kennedy and Mrs. Kennedy on the Secret Service Detail. It is an oral testimony of history through the eyes of men that were that day and witnessed the assassination first hand. Interestingly, the book was written by one agent that was not in Dallas that day.
One of the problems I have with the book is that I get the sense that the authors are suggesting that President Kennedy invited himself to be assassinated. Much is made of an order that JFK gave during a motorcade in Tampa one week before the assassination in Dallas. It so happens that the advance agent that planned all the security detail for the Tampa visit was the author Gerry Blaine.
Secondly, I do not agree with teh treatment that former Special Agent Abraham Bolden is given in this book. The public should read Mr. Bolden´s story and hear what he has to say before rushing to judgement based on what is written in this book. I should note that Mr. Bolden was the first African-American Secret Service Agent ever chosen to protect the President, and he was chosen personally by President Kennedy.
Next, my biggest disagreement is that the authors discourage consipracy theories. I truly believe, as most of America does, that one man did not act alone on that day. To believe in the Warren Commission findings is a conspiracy of cover up over the eyes and minds of the American people. Although technology and research techniques have advanced, it does not mean that we cannot search for clues in helping understand what happened that day. It is quite the opposite, we are able to understand more.
Finally, just because a person is born after the assassination, does not mean they cannot have an opinion or not have the right to research it and try to help the community pursue the truth. I full heartedly disagree with the authors in their assumption that we young people have no constructive or well thought out opinion on this.
One of the problems I have with the book is that I get the sense that the authors are suggesting that President Kennedy invited himself to be assassinated. Much is made of an order that JFK gave during a motorcade in Tampa one week before the assassination in Dallas. It so happens that the advance agent that planned all the security detail for the Tampa visit was the author Gerry Blaine.
Secondly, I do not agree with teh treatment that former Special Agent Abraham Bolden is given in this book. The public should read Mr. Bolden´s story and hear what he has to say before rushing to judgement based on what is written in this book. I should note that Mr. Bolden was the first African-American Secret Service Agent ever chosen to protect the President, and he was chosen personally by President Kennedy.
Next, my biggest disagreement is that the authors discourage consipracy theories. I truly believe, as most of America does, that one man did not act alone on that day. To believe in the Warren Commission findings is a conspiracy of cover up over the eyes and minds of the American people. Although technology and research techniques have advanced, it does not mean that we cannot search for clues in helping understand what happened that day. It is quite the opposite, we are able to understand more.
Finally, just because a person is born after the assassination, does not mean they cannot have an opinion or not have the right to research it and try to help the community pursue the truth. I full heartedly disagree with the authors in their assumption that we young people have no constructive or well thought out opinion on this.
December 8, 2010
Reads a bit like a petition for sainthood of secret service agents, second only to JFK and Jackie. Doesn't answer any of the perennial questions. Doesn't mention any of JFK's liaisons except to deny his affair with Marilyn in the epilogue. Yes, the SS agents were terribly traumatized by their sense of failure to prevent the assassination, and one has to feel for them. But this book descends into unnecessary and repetitive bathos.
September 29, 2014
This was well worth my time to get yet another perspective on this tragic event that I lived through many years ago. Very well written and gripping and honest.
I highly recommend it for those who want to refresh their memories or learn more about the JFK assassination.
I highly recommend it for those who want to refresh their memories or learn more about the JFK assassination.
March 8, 2017
While I have nothing but the outmost respect and admiration for the Secret Service personally I do have issues with some of the findings of the Warren Commission. This really is an excellent book and I would encourage all to read it.
November 12, 2025
Digital audiobook read by Alan Sklar
Subtitle: JFK’s Secret Service Agents Break Their Silence
This book was written some fifty years after the events of Nov 22, 1963. Jerry Blaine was one of the agents assigned to the Kennedy Detail, protecting the president, the vice president, their wives and children. He and the other agents on the detail had never spoken about the events in Dallas to one another, nor really to anyone (other than specific testimony they gave to investigators). But none of them had forgotten. When Blaine decided to write this book, “to set the record straight,” he contacted the other agents on the Kennedy detail, including those who were not in Dallas at the time of the assassination, and verified and re-verified their stories to compile this work.
Because he felt the story was not only his, but that of all the agents on the detail, he wrote the book as a third-person narrative. It’s a detailed and informative account of the days leading to the assassination, the chaos and confusion of the event itself, and the weeks / months of investigation following.
I was in eighth grade when President Kennedy came to Texas. He was in San Antonio on Thursday, the day before he flew to Dallas, and his motorcade went right past my school. I’ve seen news reels that show my class lining the street to wave at JFK and Jackie. My mother, who worked at an insurance company across the street, actually was able to go out to the car and shake hands with the President when the motorcade stopped at the intersection. My teacher, noticing the stopped cars, also sprinted into the intersection to shake the President’s hand. The events of that Thursday and Friday, remain vivid in my memory.
Alan Sklar does a fine job of reading the audio version. I was glad I had the text handy, though, as there are many photos in that version.
Subtitle: JFK’s Secret Service Agents Break Their Silence
This book was written some fifty years after the events of Nov 22, 1963. Jerry Blaine was one of the agents assigned to the Kennedy Detail, protecting the president, the vice president, their wives and children. He and the other agents on the detail had never spoken about the events in Dallas to one another, nor really to anyone (other than specific testimony they gave to investigators). But none of them had forgotten. When Blaine decided to write this book, “to set the record straight,” he contacted the other agents on the Kennedy detail, including those who were not in Dallas at the time of the assassination, and verified and re-verified their stories to compile this work.
Because he felt the story was not only his, but that of all the agents on the detail, he wrote the book as a third-person narrative. It’s a detailed and informative account of the days leading to the assassination, the chaos and confusion of the event itself, and the weeks / months of investigation following.
I was in eighth grade when President Kennedy came to Texas. He was in San Antonio on Thursday, the day before he flew to Dallas, and his motorcade went right past my school. I’ve seen news reels that show my class lining the street to wave at JFK and Jackie. My mother, who worked at an insurance company across the street, actually was able to go out to the car and shake hands with the President when the motorcade stopped at the intersection. My teacher, noticing the stopped cars, also sprinted into the intersection to shake the President’s hand. The events of that Thursday and Friday, remain vivid in my memory.
Alan Sklar does a fine job of reading the audio version. I was glad I had the text handy, though, as there are many photos in that version.
February 25, 2014
I grabbed this book as soon as it came out...literally on my way home from Arlington Cemetery in November 2010, after visiting the Kennedy gravesite.
To describe the reading experience as "extremely moving" would be a gross under-statement. To finally hear the story from those who were part of the story was not only refreshing, but extremely memorable. It's important that this book will live to tell the story long after all of us who watched it (on TV, for instance) are gone.
The details of the relationships that were built between the agents and the First Family are an example of the unique authenticity this book provides. Stories of JFK bringing short-sleeved shirts out to agents standing duty in the hot sun in Florida, or coffee to an agent freezing on the steps of the brownstone in Manhattan, provide a perspective on Camelot like no other I've seen in these 5 decades.
I remember sitting on a flight, in an aisle seat, with the book on my tray table. A woman walked by and asked, "Is that what I think it is?" She then picked it up to take a look. She couldn't put it down, nor could the other passengers who gathered to see and talk about it. Yes, we caused a minor disruption. It was amazing, and spoke to the power of the perspective that Blaine and others provided.
This is one of the best and most important books I've ever read! I will read The Kennedy Detail again and again, as I do every GREAT book in my cherished collection, and I strongly recommend it to all readers.
To describe the reading experience as "extremely moving" would be a gross under-statement. To finally hear the story from those who were part of the story was not only refreshing, but extremely memorable. It's important that this book will live to tell the story long after all of us who watched it (on TV, for instance) are gone.
The details of the relationships that were built between the agents and the First Family are an example of the unique authenticity this book provides. Stories of JFK bringing short-sleeved shirts out to agents standing duty in the hot sun in Florida, or coffee to an agent freezing on the steps of the brownstone in Manhattan, provide a perspective on Camelot like no other I've seen in these 5 decades.
I remember sitting on a flight, in an aisle seat, with the book on my tray table. A woman walked by and asked, "Is that what I think it is?" She then picked it up to take a look. She couldn't put it down, nor could the other passengers who gathered to see and talk about it. Yes, we caused a minor disruption. It was amazing, and spoke to the power of the perspective that Blaine and others provided.
This is one of the best and most important books I've ever read! I will read The Kennedy Detail again and again, as I do every GREAT book in my cherished collection, and I strongly recommend it to all readers.
April 19, 2014
A whole new perspective on the Kennedy Administration and assassination. These men adored JFK and his family and lived with the horrific and needless guilt of not being able to save him. An excellent read.
March 14, 2020
Jedna z najlepszych książek po jakie sięgnęłam ostatnimi czasy. Jak wszyscy dobrze wiemy, teorii spiskowych na temat zabójstwa Kennedy'ego jest masa. Co jakiś czas odżywają te bardziej absurdalne i wszyscy żałują, że na fb nie ma rekacji typu "face palm". Ta książka to relacja agentów Secret Service, odpowiedzialnych za bezpieczeństwo prezydenta. Czytając niby wiesz, jaki jest efekt końcowy, jak kończy się prezydentura Kennedy'ego. A jednak trzyma w napięciu, do ostatnich sekund jego podróży po Dallas masz nadzieję, że jednak nie dojdzie do oddania tych trzech strzałów.
Agenci Secret Service zasługują nie tylko na uznanie ale też na ogromny szacunek. W realiach pierwszej połowy lat 60., jednostka tak mocno niedofinansowana i z tak wielkimi brakami kadrowymi, tylko dlatego, że Kongres nie mógł się dogadać i przyznać odpowiedniego budżetu (pomimo, że już wcześniej w historii zamordowano trzech prezydentów), stawała raz po raz na wysokości zadania. Do tego dochodził tryb pracy Kennedy'ego, który na pewno nie ułatwiał zadania jego ochronie.
Za oburzające należy uznać nie udzielnie agentom pomocy psychologicznej po wydarzeniach z Dallas. Jak można w ogóle zostawić ludzi samym sobie z takimi problemami? Żeby się obwiniali o to, co było poza ich możliwościami? Żeby musieli wysłuchiwać tych wszystkich teorii spiskowych, nie mogąc zabrać głosu, i sami sobie z tym radzili? Nie dziwię się, że pojawiły się u niektórych problemy alkoholowe i depresja.
Dlatego tak bardzo uderza ten fragment: "Agenci czuli się, jak gdyby zostali napiętnowani winą przez laika, przez żadnego sensacji dziennikarza, który tak bardzo chciał się wybić, odsłaniając nowy aspekt najgorętszego tematu stulecia, że nie zadał sobie trudu, aby potwierdzić fakty albo zweryfikować zeznania, czym obciążył na resztę życia tych i tak już zdruzgotanych ludzi."
Agenci Secret Service zasługują nie tylko na uznanie ale też na ogromny szacunek. W realiach pierwszej połowy lat 60., jednostka tak mocno niedofinansowana i z tak wielkimi brakami kadrowymi, tylko dlatego, że Kongres nie mógł się dogadać i przyznać odpowiedniego budżetu (pomimo, że już wcześniej w historii zamordowano trzech prezydentów), stawała raz po raz na wysokości zadania. Do tego dochodził tryb pracy Kennedy'ego, który na pewno nie ułatwiał zadania jego ochronie.
Za oburzające należy uznać nie udzielnie agentom pomocy psychologicznej po wydarzeniach z Dallas. Jak można w ogóle zostawić ludzi samym sobie z takimi problemami? Żeby się obwiniali o to, co było poza ich możliwościami? Żeby musieli wysłuchiwać tych wszystkich teorii spiskowych, nie mogąc zabrać głosu, i sami sobie z tym radzili? Nie dziwię się, że pojawiły się u niektórych problemy alkoholowe i depresja.
Dlatego tak bardzo uderza ten fragment: "Agenci czuli się, jak gdyby zostali napiętnowani winą przez laika, przez żadnego sensacji dziennikarza, który tak bardzo chciał się wybić, odsłaniając nowy aspekt najgorętszego tematu stulecia, że nie zadał sobie trudu, aby potwierdzić fakty albo zweryfikować zeznania, czym obciążył na resztę życia tych i tak już zdruzgotanych ludzi."
April 13, 2018
This was an extremely fascinating audiobook! I would give it 5 stars except for the language used a lot in quoting others. 🤨 However I believe this book puts to rest a lot of conspiracy theories and gives so many interesting glimpses into the inner circle of the Kennedys. This is written by the secret service agents of JFK and I have so much more respect for these hard working men-past and present.
May 4, 2018
Loved the realness of this book! These guys went through so much, and during a time when you just sucked it up and went on. I feel so regretful that anyone would ever think that the Secret Service contributed to the assassination either by conspiracy or cover-up. This book did answer several of my questions— like why were agents out drinking the night before, why did the driver brake after the first shot, why did only Clint Hill race to the car, why did they bypass an autopsy in Dallas, and so on. My disappointment with the book was the plethora of profanity... especially the disrespect to the name of Jesus Christ. ☹️ Otherwise, historically fascinating and clarifying.
August 17, 2016
Last year, one of my students asked me, "Why is history so depressing?" I was flummoxed and took a moment before I could answer. I make sure to always include cultural and technological accomplishments, things that are much more uplifting, but so much of history is sad. You can't dress up wars and tragedies with a pretty bow. So, despite demonstrating the pride and adoration for Camelot, it's impossible to teach about JFK without being depressing. It is simply heartbreaking to relive his assassination each year and especially while reading this book.
After watching Parkland, I knew it was finally time to take the book off the shelf and read it. While watching the film, I was riveted by the heartbreaking depictions AFTER the assassination. So many of the films are about the events preceding it. Here, we saw the chaos in the operating room and the strength of the Secret Service agents. Interestingly enough, we also see the work of the Secret Service field agents as they investigate the Zapruder film. In a twist, we see more of Oswald's brother than himself, witnessing how the family of the assassin could be affected. The film had me questioning the actions of the secret service agents prior to the death and also revisiting all the conspiracy theories and videos I watch every year before I teach the JFK unit.
This book answers so many questions. It may not be the definitive account, because we can't ever have one, but it is written in a third person narrative, based on many conversations between Gerald Blaine, himself not present that day, and the agents who were. There are many conspiracy theorists out there who will say this is the Secret Servicemen's attempt to support the Warren Commission and to rid themselves of blame. I've even seen videos calling Clint Hill, the man willing to risk his life for the first lady and president, a liar. But I, myself, believe it 100%. I can't fathom, nor do I want to, a world where the men, who sacrifice their personal lives and health to protect those in charge, would be complicit in JFK's murder. Instead, I believe every answer provided in the narrative. Want to know why the agents weren't on the back of the limo? JFK had point blank said he didn't want them on days before in Tampa and that directive carried forward. While it sounded a bit like victim blaming, it also sounded like an accurate characterization of Camelot's hero. Want to understand all those youtube videos that claim Emory called off a secret service agent from protecting JFK? Well, those people are using the video disingenuously. It's taken as JFK was leaving Love field and it shows Emory calling off Lawton BECAUSE HE'S NOT THE AGENT ON DUTY FOR THE MOTORCADE. They are laughing in the video because it was a joke amongst colleagues. How could you doubt these men? The heartbreak and guilt that these agents finally talk about, as written here in third person, is palpable and proof that these men took their job as an honorable duty.
It is an amazing glimpse into the lives of the agents, into their job requirements, and into the sad chapter in history. It covers the short duration of JFK's administration, highlighting the tense moments within it. It details the close relationships between the agents and between the agents and the Kennedy's. And it answers some of the questions you might find yourself asking. I do wish it explained more about the evidence collection at Parkland, regarding JFK and the car, and more about the autopsy, since those are fodder for conspiracy theorists. But still, amazing read.
P.S. If you're looking for any sordid details of JFK's alleged extramarital affairs, you won't find any here until the epilogue...literally the last page...in which Blaine emphatically denies the existence of JFK and Monroe's relationship. I will say this: I loved this book and appreciated the lack of any of this information since the book was about the Secret Service agent's job. I was actually thrown by the few paragraphs thrown in at the end and wish it hadn't been there.
P.P.S LOVED the JFK quotes peppered throughout the book at the beginning of every chapter...very inspirational
After watching Parkland, I knew it was finally time to take the book off the shelf and read it. While watching the film, I was riveted by the heartbreaking depictions AFTER the assassination. So many of the films are about the events preceding it. Here, we saw the chaos in the operating room and the strength of the Secret Service agents. Interestingly enough, we also see the work of the Secret Service field agents as they investigate the Zapruder film. In a twist, we see more of Oswald's brother than himself, witnessing how the family of the assassin could be affected. The film had me questioning the actions of the secret service agents prior to the death and also revisiting all the conspiracy theories and videos I watch every year before I teach the JFK unit.
This book answers so many questions. It may not be the definitive account, because we can't ever have one, but it is written in a third person narrative, based on many conversations between Gerald Blaine, himself not present that day, and the agents who were. There are many conspiracy theorists out there who will say this is the Secret Servicemen's attempt to support the Warren Commission and to rid themselves of blame. I've even seen videos calling Clint Hill, the man willing to risk his life for the first lady and president, a liar. But I, myself, believe it 100%. I can't fathom, nor do I want to, a world where the men, who sacrifice their personal lives and health to protect those in charge, would be complicit in JFK's murder. Instead, I believe every answer provided in the narrative. Want to know why the agents weren't on the back of the limo? JFK had point blank said he didn't want them on days before in Tampa and that directive carried forward. While it sounded a bit like victim blaming, it also sounded like an accurate characterization of Camelot's hero. Want to understand all those youtube videos that claim Emory called off a secret service agent from protecting JFK? Well, those people are using the video disingenuously. It's taken as JFK was leaving Love field and it shows Emory calling off Lawton BECAUSE HE'S NOT THE AGENT ON DUTY FOR THE MOTORCADE. They are laughing in the video because it was a joke amongst colleagues. How could you doubt these men? The heartbreak and guilt that these agents finally talk about, as written here in third person, is palpable and proof that these men took their job as an honorable duty.
It is an amazing glimpse into the lives of the agents, into their job requirements, and into the sad chapter in history. It covers the short duration of JFK's administration, highlighting the tense moments within it. It details the close relationships between the agents and between the agents and the Kennedy's. And it answers some of the questions you might find yourself asking. I do wish it explained more about the evidence collection at Parkland, regarding JFK and the car, and more about the autopsy, since those are fodder for conspiracy theorists. But still, amazing read.
P.S. If you're looking for any sordid details of JFK's alleged extramarital affairs, you won't find any here until the epilogue...literally the last page...in which Blaine emphatically denies the existence of JFK and Monroe's relationship. I will say this: I loved this book and appreciated the lack of any of this information since the book was about the Secret Service agent's job. I was actually thrown by the few paragraphs thrown in at the end and wish it hadn't been there.
P.P.S LOVED the JFK quotes peppered throughout the book at the beginning of every chapter...very inspirational
November 9, 2022
There’s such a lack of accountability by the secret service agency for what happened in Dallas within these pages.
It’s well documented and known that JFK never wanted to appear blocked or hidden behind secret service men. He wanted to be accessible to people. If you’re familiar with Kennedy lore, I’m sure you know the story of Kennedy mentioning, on the morning of his death, how easy it would be to assassinate a president and how no one could do anything about it.
It was also mentioned numerous times throughout the book how JFK didn’t like using the bubble-top on the limousine for the same accessibility reason. I’m not doubting or dismissing how difficult and stressful it must have been for the secret service to protect a leader, especially in ‘63. I’m definitely not dismissing the trauma, pain and guilt many servicemen undoubtedly faced following the death of Kennedy.
What irked me was the repetitive attitude of “Well, we told him [Kennedy] and a President knows the dangers of this job. There’s no way to prepare for any and every situation.” That may be true in some aspects, however, that is the sole purpose and job of the secret servicemen. They failed in protecting their leader. Most of the sympathy and sorrow expressed in the book seemed to be geared towards the specific servicemen accompanying the motorcade and detail in Dallas. A lot of that sympathy definitely should’ve been. However, not once was there a clear statement of accountability that admitted “We completely failed in our mission and that is on us.”
It was more of a somber “We couldn’t believe this happened and it absolutely wrecked us but there was nothing we could’ve done. Maybe if the President had listened to our suggestions for security a bit more…” Just icky.
Stating that every single building couldn’t possibly have been inspected/cleared out prior to the motorcade and that there just wasn’t enough coverage (including the Dallas police), just doesn’t seem right.
If it’s your job to protect a leader and they don’t adhere to a certain level of protection, why couldn’t a common ground have been met? We get it, Kennedy wanted to be seen. He went against protocols for his own protection at times. You could even argue that he was fatalistic. With that in mind, that doesn’t take away the sole purpose of the servicemen’s job: protect. Some common ground should have been planned and agreed upon.
Naturally, it’s a Kennedy book so conspiracy theories are also discussed. It’s the lone gunman theory here. Not going to open that can of worms.
The assassination of a world leader is not a situation where a cavalier attitude should be expressed. That’s what mainly soured my opinion on this book. How disappointing.
It’s well documented and known that JFK never wanted to appear blocked or hidden behind secret service men. He wanted to be accessible to people. If you’re familiar with Kennedy lore, I’m sure you know the story of Kennedy mentioning, on the morning of his death, how easy it would be to assassinate a president and how no one could do anything about it.
It was also mentioned numerous times throughout the book how JFK didn’t like using the bubble-top on the limousine for the same accessibility reason. I’m not doubting or dismissing how difficult and stressful it must have been for the secret service to protect a leader, especially in ‘63. I’m definitely not dismissing the trauma, pain and guilt many servicemen undoubtedly faced following the death of Kennedy.
What irked me was the repetitive attitude of “Well, we told him [Kennedy] and a President knows the dangers of this job. There’s no way to prepare for any and every situation.” That may be true in some aspects, however, that is the sole purpose and job of the secret servicemen. They failed in protecting their leader. Most of the sympathy and sorrow expressed in the book seemed to be geared towards the specific servicemen accompanying the motorcade and detail in Dallas. A lot of that sympathy definitely should’ve been. However, not once was there a clear statement of accountability that admitted “We completely failed in our mission and that is on us.”
It was more of a somber “We couldn’t believe this happened and it absolutely wrecked us but there was nothing we could’ve done. Maybe if the President had listened to our suggestions for security a bit more…” Just icky.
Stating that every single building couldn’t possibly have been inspected/cleared out prior to the motorcade and that there just wasn’t enough coverage (including the Dallas police), just doesn’t seem right.
If it’s your job to protect a leader and they don’t adhere to a certain level of protection, why couldn’t a common ground have been met? We get it, Kennedy wanted to be seen. He went against protocols for his own protection at times. You could even argue that he was fatalistic. With that in mind, that doesn’t take away the sole purpose of the servicemen’s job: protect. Some common ground should have been planned and agreed upon.
Naturally, it’s a Kennedy book so conspiracy theories are also discussed. It’s the lone gunman theory here. Not going to open that can of worms.
The assassination of a world leader is not a situation where a cavalier attitude should be expressed. That’s what mainly soured my opinion on this book. How disappointing.
February 14, 2014
I had the opportunity to meet Mr Blaine at an event in Kansas City. He also signed my book that I purchased at the time. To meet someone that had first hand knowledge and experience with President Kennedy and his family and to be there on that fateful day was amazing. He sheds a whole new light and perspective of that day and the life on JFK. I have always admired President Kennedy even from the young age of 8 years old when he was assassinated. I highly recommend this book. You may or may not believe all the details with all the 'conspiracy theories' out there, but you will truly find it fascinating.
July 5, 2013
The world waited for many years for the men who composed President Kennedy's Secret Service detail to break their silence. They finally did so in this marvelous book, which is startling, sometimes heartbreaking and always interesting. This book should be read by all who consider themselves Kennedy historians, professional or amateur. It's an important part of the historical record of those exciting, tragic times.
December 26, 2010
Since I was in the 6th grade when JFK was assassinated, I have been intrigued with the events of those days my entire life. It was interesting to read the first-person accounts of a couple of the Secret Service agents who were on President Kennedy's Protection Detail in Dallas. If this subject is something you are interested in, then I would highly recommend this book to you.
May 24, 2017
Former JFK detail Secret Service agents Gerald Blaine and Clint Hill put together an excellent memoir of serving in that detail and basically a Clint Hill professional biography including his service under LBJ and Nixon. From their privileged vantage point this has much touching and personal such as JFK Jr. ("John John")'s obsession with military and saluting culminating in him stepping forward to render a final salute as his father's flag-draped casket was carried out from St. Matthew's Cathedral, Jackie O. smoking on the sly, etc. Also, their professional view explains how the presidential car was for maximized visibility, not security and how JFK demanded close proximity with well-wishers, etc. Pointedly about challenging conspiracy theories, this work is not about evaluating JFK as a president. Still, the quick summary of his presidential political career finally tipped me over into believing him over-rated, at least on foreign policy. It really feels to me like his indecisiveness and lack of resolve around the failed Bay of Pigs invasion leading into failed the 1961 Vienna summit invited further challenge from the USSR leading to The Berlin Wall and the nearly nuclear Cuban Missile Crisis. Sure, he avoided nuclear war and set the stage for less tense U.S.–Soviet relations, but only after ineptly taking us to the brink... I see that a 2014 Washington Post survey of 162 members of the American Political Science Association's Presidents and Executive Politics found Kennedy to be the most overrated U.S. president, so I don't feel so bad of my views.
As for assassination conspiracies. The book roundly denies any Secret Service incompetence or conspiracy resulting in the assassination. Without naming the book, Mortal Error: The Shot That Killed JFK is specifically called out. I still want to read that book, but I wasn't really convinced that a stumbling agent w/an AR-15 could take such a shot without resulting in some vociferous witnesses early on. Condemning the veracity of claims from former agent Abraham Bolden figures in highly here.
As for conspiracy, these authors hold to the Single Bullet Theory, that is that the first bullet that hit JFK also hit Connolly. I don't know if this can ever be truly answered, but of all I have read and considered, I hold with Dr. Cyril Wecht's convincing arguments that Connolly too delicately holds his hat to be shot when JFK is. I don't know that Oswald even knew of any other gunman, maybe he only knew what he said, that he was "a patsy."
Interestingly, the failure of Dallas authorities to keep Oswald from being assassinated and the Secret Service refusing to allow proper forensic examination of JFK is not admitted in this book as a Service failing that should not have happened. Maybe we need an assassination protocol with federal requirements for full forensic investigation and federal detainment and protection of chief suspects.
As for assassination conspiracies. The book roundly denies any Secret Service incompetence or conspiracy resulting in the assassination. Without naming the book, Mortal Error: The Shot That Killed JFK is specifically called out. I still want to read that book, but I wasn't really convinced that a stumbling agent w/an AR-15 could take such a shot without resulting in some vociferous witnesses early on. Condemning the veracity of claims from former agent Abraham Bolden figures in highly here.
As for conspiracy, these authors hold to the Single Bullet Theory, that is that the first bullet that hit JFK also hit Connolly. I don't know if this can ever be truly answered, but of all I have read and considered, I hold with Dr. Cyril Wecht's convincing arguments that Connolly too delicately holds his hat to be shot when JFK is. I don't know that Oswald even knew of any other gunman, maybe he only knew what he said, that he was "a patsy."
Interestingly, the failure of Dallas authorities to keep Oswald from being assassinated and the Secret Service refusing to allow proper forensic examination of JFK is not admitted in this book as a Service failing that should not have happened. Maybe we need an assassination protocol with federal requirements for full forensic investigation and federal detainment and protection of chief suspects.
July 30, 2022
Even though I have read many books now about JFK and that fateful day in Dallas, this one was different in that it was told from the perspective of the Secret Service Agents. The ones that were there in Dallas that day and even the ones that weren't but were still part of the Kennedy Detail and were also deeply impacted by the assassination. This book especially focused on Clint Hill, the Secret Service agent assigned to Jaqueline Kennedy but who so heroically tried to save the President that day and Mrs. Kennedy. He is the agent shown in the Zapruder film scrambling onto the back of the presidential limousine and propelling Jackie back into the back seat and shileding both her and the President from another bullet as they sped towards Parkland Hospital. Clint Hill and many of the other agents on that detail were severely traumatised by those events and their inability to save JFK. That is something that will torture them forever and something they have all now learned to live with but it all came at a price. It was a time when PTSD wasn't a thing and you just had to bottle up your emotions and get on with things. Clint Hill did it, others in the Secret Service did it and especially Jackie Kennedy did it, although this book is less about her and more about JFK and his agents. Jerry Blaine wanted to set the record straight about that day and also lay to rest all the conspiracy theories but I am not sure they will ever go away. In the agents' minds there was only one assassin and that was Lee Harvey Oswald. There was no conspiracy. It was just one man. I am not sure if I believe that and I feel that the truth may have died with Oswald the day he too was killed. But for JFK buffs like myself this is a must read. It really takes you into the minds and workings of these amazing men whose only job is to protect the President of the United States and their families.
January 12, 2018
Captivating, interesting and worth time spent reading this story from the perspective of the secret service men, many of whom were impacted by the assignation of President John F. Kennedy on a fateful day of November 22, 1963 in Dallas, Texas.
Clint Hill was forever haunted by the fact if he would have been able to run a few seconds faster, he could have made it to the limo containing the President. He then would have taken the second and third bullets shot from the book depository, and the President would live.
Well written, and of important note is the fact that it was JFK who told the agents to give a wide berth in following or surrounding the cars. Kennedy believed that he was not particularly liked in Texas, and thus wanted to be visible to those watching the President.
This was the first time Jackie Kennedy accompanied her husband on a tour. In detail, we learn of her bravery in accompanying her husband into the hospital, holding his head and in shock, praying for the best outcome.
This is the story of before, during and after. The impact on the nation and the ensuing far-fetched manifold conspiracy theories as well as those who believe they failed to protect the President, is told in a clear, undramatic fashion.
Clint Hill was forever haunted by the fact if he would have been able to run a few seconds faster, he could have made it to the limo containing the President. He then would have taken the second and third bullets shot from the book depository, and the President would live.
Well written, and of important note is the fact that it was JFK who told the agents to give a wide berth in following or surrounding the cars. Kennedy believed that he was not particularly liked in Texas, and thus wanted to be visible to those watching the President.
This was the first time Jackie Kennedy accompanied her husband on a tour. In detail, we learn of her bravery in accompanying her husband into the hospital, holding his head and in shock, praying for the best outcome.
This is the story of before, during and after. The impact on the nation and the ensuing far-fetched manifold conspiracy theories as well as those who believe they failed to protect the President, is told in a clear, undramatic fashion.
August 27, 2019
So interesting. I have read many books on the Kennedy's, this one was factual and not full of conspiracy theories. This account kept me interested during the entire book. I enjoyed hearing the account of the secret service detail. I listened to the audio book.
April 30, 2024
Having been fascinated by the Camelot / Kennedy aura this book was a sure pick for me. An in depth look at the men that protected the Kennedy family more than just at the White House. The interaction of the president, First Lady and the children was as if they were family. They cared deeply for them. Those who were on the detail in Dallas blamed themselves.
Their would never be the same again
Their would never be the same again
May 4, 2024
This was a thicc boy but so good. I never felt like there was unnecessary information. It was well paced, thorough, and kept the reader engaged. The writing was great and the story iconic.
May 6, 2025
I would have given this 4.5 stars if possible, simply because about 3/4 the way through it started to get repetitive. I almost quit at that point. I even had it by the door to return to the library. But I picked it up to skim the final portion and ended up reading the rest of it. I’m so glad I didn’t give up! What a fascinating book! It actually was good for me because I have always felt a bit guilty about not having clearer memories of that time. I had just turned 9 years old and mostly remembered that there was nothing on TV except about JFK and the funeral. The book helped me relive buried memories.
April 7, 2011
The Good Stuff
* Compelling and authentic and extremely classy (no tell all gossip book here)
* Touching first hand accounts of the relationship between JFK and his staff and his family
* Good selection of photographs including a lovely candid one of JFK and his kids on Halloween
* The scene between JFK and his son is very touching when you realize this is the last time they will ever see each other. Made me cry -- for once at least I wasn't in a public place when I read it
* Enjoyed the little glimpse into how compassionate and how all to human JFK and his wife were
* The obvious love and respect that the agents had for each other and for their "boss"
* honestly just really interesting to learn about the inner workings of the Secret Service and of the men whose job it is to protect the president - just plain fascinating
* Extremely detailed descriptions of the days before and after the assassination
* The descriptions of the agents grief and their obvious feelings of survivors guilt and shame are very moving
* Touching stories about the relationship between the agents and JFK's kids before and after the assassination
* Why are you still reading my ramblings just go get the book - you know you want to.
The Not so Good Stuff
* Jumps around a little and I got lost a couple of times -- but hey I am a sleep deprived mom, you guys might not notice as much
* Sometimes I was a little frustrated with all the minute details - see above note
* Also, (and you should know one of my history teachers, Mr Centa was a HUGE conspiracy theorist and I had to attend tons of his presentations in high school so this stuff has been ingrained in me - I can't tell you how many times we had to see the Zapruder film) I sort of balked at the obvious plea for us to put our full trust in the findings of the Warren Commission (See the last quote in next section)
Favorite Quotes/Passages
"The publishing of motorcade routes was a constant battle between the Secret Service and the president's political advisers. From the Secret Service standpoint, informing the public about the president's movements in advance was like inviting the fox into the hen-house, while the political folks looked at is as a necessity. From their views, the whole point of the motorcade was for JFK to be seen by as many people as possible."
"Tolerance implies no lack of commitment to one's own beliefs. Rather it condemns the oppression or persecution of others - John F. Kennedy"
"Meanwhile, Godfrey was fuming. He couldn't wait to get out of the country. He turned to Rowley and said, "The Italians haven't changed since the last time I was here. The only difference is, now we can't shoot at 'em"
"I would be very pleased if the results of the Warren Commission and its investigation would be accepted as the final word. However, I know that the researchers, writers, and filmmakers who continue to question those findings will never accept those as the truth. The information presented by the majority of these people is theory, not fact. They were not witnesses to the assassination; have little or no knowledge of protective procedures; did not know the dedicated agents on this assignment; and simply were not in our shoes that day in Dallas."
What I Learned
* Fascinating details about the day to day challenges faced by members of the Secret Service
* How few Secret Service were actually in charge of protecting the president and how this has changed since
* Too many interesting historical tidbits to mention -- just go buy the book -- or of course ask your friendly neighborhood Librarian for a copy
* John F. Kennedy was the first Catholic to be elected president -- seriously I couldn't believe it either
* How little these guys actually got paid to put their lives on the line and how horribly boring it could be
* Really would have hated to be married to one of these guys
Who should/shouldn't read
* I'm thinking serious conspiracy theorists will be totally put off by this one -- that's right Fox Mulder and Dr. Jack Hodgins this book is not for you (And cannot forget about you Mr Centa)
* History buffs and those interested in the Secret Service will definitely enjoy
* Definite must have for Kennedy junkies
4.5 Dewey's
Purchased this from Indigo on recommendation from Captain Awesome of Indigo Jeremy Cammy
* Compelling and authentic and extremely classy (no tell all gossip book here)
* Touching first hand accounts of the relationship between JFK and his staff and his family
* Good selection of photographs including a lovely candid one of JFK and his kids on Halloween
* The scene between JFK and his son is very touching when you realize this is the last time they will ever see each other. Made me cry -- for once at least I wasn't in a public place when I read it
* Enjoyed the little glimpse into how compassionate and how all to human JFK and his wife were
* The obvious love and respect that the agents had for each other and for their "boss"
* honestly just really interesting to learn about the inner workings of the Secret Service and of the men whose job it is to protect the president - just plain fascinating
* Extremely detailed descriptions of the days before and after the assassination
* The descriptions of the agents grief and their obvious feelings of survivors guilt and shame are very moving
* Touching stories about the relationship between the agents and JFK's kids before and after the assassination
* Why are you still reading my ramblings just go get the book - you know you want to.
The Not so Good Stuff
* Jumps around a little and I got lost a couple of times -- but hey I am a sleep deprived mom, you guys might not notice as much
* Sometimes I was a little frustrated with all the minute details - see above note
* Also, (and you should know one of my history teachers, Mr Centa was a HUGE conspiracy theorist and I had to attend tons of his presentations in high school so this stuff has been ingrained in me - I can't tell you how many times we had to see the Zapruder film) I sort of balked at the obvious plea for us to put our full trust in the findings of the Warren Commission (See the last quote in next section)
Favorite Quotes/Passages
"The publishing of motorcade routes was a constant battle between the Secret Service and the president's political advisers. From the Secret Service standpoint, informing the public about the president's movements in advance was like inviting the fox into the hen-house, while the political folks looked at is as a necessity. From their views, the whole point of the motorcade was for JFK to be seen by as many people as possible."
"Tolerance implies no lack of commitment to one's own beliefs. Rather it condemns the oppression or persecution of others - John F. Kennedy"
"Meanwhile, Godfrey was fuming. He couldn't wait to get out of the country. He turned to Rowley and said, "The Italians haven't changed since the last time I was here. The only difference is, now we can't shoot at 'em"
"I would be very pleased if the results of the Warren Commission and its investigation would be accepted as the final word. However, I know that the researchers, writers, and filmmakers who continue to question those findings will never accept those as the truth. The information presented by the majority of these people is theory, not fact. They were not witnesses to the assassination; have little or no knowledge of protective procedures; did not know the dedicated agents on this assignment; and simply were not in our shoes that day in Dallas."
What I Learned
* Fascinating details about the day to day challenges faced by members of the Secret Service
* How few Secret Service were actually in charge of protecting the president and how this has changed since
* Too many interesting historical tidbits to mention -- just go buy the book -- or of course ask your friendly neighborhood Librarian for a copy
* John F. Kennedy was the first Catholic to be elected president -- seriously I couldn't believe it either
* How little these guys actually got paid to put their lives on the line and how horribly boring it could be
* Really would have hated to be married to one of these guys
Who should/shouldn't read
* I'm thinking serious conspiracy theorists will be totally put off by this one -- that's right Fox Mulder and Dr. Jack Hodgins this book is not for you (And cannot forget about you Mr Centa)
* History buffs and those interested in the Secret Service will definitely enjoy
* Definite must have for Kennedy junkies
4.5 Dewey's
Purchased this from Indigo on recommendation from Captain Awesome of Indigo Jeremy Cammy
January 25, 2015
Breaking more than four decades of silence, Secret Service Agent Gerald Blaine has compiled government documents, agent stories and his own personal account of November 22, 1963 to give readers an inside look at what happened the day President Kennedy was assassinated. The book is written in four sections: The Men, The Job, That Day, and Our Lives which fills in the picture of the president’s life in the early 1960s and the small intimate detail of agents who sole job it is to protect the president from harm.
Retired Secret Service agent Clint Hill had been to Dallas just twice in his life. The first time was the day he flung himself on President John F. Kennedy's car a moment after the fatal shot was fired 47 years ago. In 1990, he returned to Dealey Plaza and finally come to terms with what had happened. Hill says "I know exactly where it was and what happened at that moment. ... I still can see the president's head being blown apart, being blown wide open. I can see him lying on Mrs. Kennedy's lap in the back seat of the car as I lay above them trying to get to Parkland Hospital. ... It'll never go away."
These men served their country, not for the low wages, but for inner reasons. Their lives were intertwined with the First Family, spending more time with Caroline and John than their own children. Their wives and children were bonded together in an effort to make up for the time their husbands were away. The agent life style deprived them of regular meals, regular sleep and taxed their inner resources.
I was only nine years old when President Kennedy was assassinated but I remember being let out early from school and our teachers were crying and clinging to each other. This is certainly not an in-depth look at the events that happened in Dallas that day but more of an autobiographical remembrance from a group of men we know little of, even today. When I was done reading it, I watched the documentary and it was very interesting. You not only see the young agents but a lot of footage of the Kennedy family during the years preceding the assassination. I found it more interesting that I expected when it was selected by my local book club as their January read.
Retired Secret Service agent Clint Hill had been to Dallas just twice in his life. The first time was the day he flung himself on President John F. Kennedy's car a moment after the fatal shot was fired 47 years ago. In 1990, he returned to Dealey Plaza and finally come to terms with what had happened. Hill says "I know exactly where it was and what happened at that moment. ... I still can see the president's head being blown apart, being blown wide open. I can see him lying on Mrs. Kennedy's lap in the back seat of the car as I lay above them trying to get to Parkland Hospital. ... It'll never go away."
These men served their country, not for the low wages, but for inner reasons. Their lives were intertwined with the First Family, spending more time with Caroline and John than their own children. Their wives and children were bonded together in an effort to make up for the time their husbands were away. The agent life style deprived them of regular meals, regular sleep and taxed their inner resources.
I was only nine years old when President Kennedy was assassinated but I remember being let out early from school and our teachers were crying and clinging to each other. This is certainly not an in-depth look at the events that happened in Dallas that day but more of an autobiographical remembrance from a group of men we know little of, even today. When I was done reading it, I watched the documentary and it was very interesting. You not only see the young agents but a lot of footage of the Kennedy family during the years preceding the assassination. I found it more interesting that I expected when it was selected by my local book club as their January read.
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