Clint Hill, a former Secret Service agent known for his role on the day of JFK's assassination, reflects on the heavy emotional burden he carried, including feelings of guilt regarding the tragedy. Joined by Mike Wallace, the veteran correspondent who famously interviewed him, they discuss the impact of that candid moment on Hill’s life. The conversation explores the psychological toll on protectors, the struggles of their families, and the significance of sharing personal stories for healing, highlighted by Hill's journey through trauma and connection with audiences.
Clint Hill exemplified the emotional burden faced by Secret Service agents, carrying guilt and trauma from President Kennedy's assassination throughout his life.
The 60 Minutes interview with Mike Wallace served as a pivotal moment for Hill, facilitating a cathartic release and raising awareness about mental health struggles in high-stakes roles.
Deep dives
Clint Hill's Emotional Reflection on November 22, 1963
Clint Hill, a former Secret Service agent, expressed deep emotional turmoil while recalling the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. Hill believed that if he had acted just a fraction of a second faster, he could have prevented the tragedy. This overwhelming sense of guilt has lingered with him throughout his life, despite acknowledging that he demonstrated great bravery in the line of duty. In a candid moment during a 60 Minutes interview, he revealed that it was the first time he truly opened up about his feelings regarding that day.
The Impact of Mike Wallace's Interview
The interview conducted by Mike Wallace in 1975 became a pivotal moment for Clint Hill, affecting him more than he anticipated. Hill shared that the interview was cathartic, allowing him to process emotions he had suppressed for years. He regarded this opportunity as significant since he had never discussed these feelings with his family or fellow agents. The emotional weight of the conversation helped him confront his trauma, shedding light on the mental health struggles associated with such high-stakes responsibility.
Archival Stories and Untold Aspects of the 60 Minutes Broadcast
The podcast reveals a treasure trove of archival material related to Hill’s original interview and the dynamic between him and Mike Wallace. Many details from the extensive interviews conducted in 1975 were left on the cutting room floor, including personal insights from Hill's wife, Gwen. The discussion encapsulated both the pressures on Secret Service agents during a tumultuous period in U.S. history and the evolving nature of public discourse around mental health. This uncovering of forgotten narratives not only enriches the historical account but also connects the audience to the human side of those involved.
Clint Hill's Legacy and Advocacy for Mental Health
Now 92 years old, Clint Hill continues to advocate for mental health awareness, particularly for those impacted by trauma. His experiences have led him to encourage others to seek help for PTSD, stemming from the emotional fallout of high-pressure roles in protective services. Despite the painful memories associated with his past, Hill finds solace through family and a renewed purpose in sharing his story. As he reflects on his legacy, his simple testament of 'I tried' encapsulates both his remorse and unwavering commitment to his responsibilities.
Clint Hill, a former U.S. Secret Service agent on duty the day President John F. Kennedy was assassinated, has died at age 93. Veteran 60 Minutes correspondent Mike Wallace once said that, in all his years as a journalist, very few interviews stayed with him like his time with Clint Hill. During that interview, Hill stunned Wallace -- and the nation -- by admitting he felt responsible for the president's death. Hill would later say it was the first time he had ever spoken publicly about that day, and that his emotional reaction surprised even him. Hill told "60 Minutes: A Second Look" why he spoke so candidly for an audience of millions, and how that interview with Mike Wallace may have changed the course of his life.
This episode of "60 Minutes: A Second Look" originally released in October 2024.