Post-Assassination Journey: LBJ and Jackie Kennedy's Journey from Parkland Hospital to Air Force One
On November 22, 1963, the assassination of President John F. Kennedy in Dallas, Texas, marked a turning point in American history. The journey from Parkland Hospital to Air Force One was a significant moment during a time of national crisis, reflecting both the shock of the assassination and the swift transition of power in the U.S. government.
Immediate Aftermath
At 1:00 p.m., President Kennedy was pronounced dead. The assassination scene was captured in detail through the report of Special Agent Emory Roberts, who estimated the time of pronouncement at around 1:14 p.m. In the immediate aftermath, Vice President Lyndon B. Johnson was sworn in as the 36th President of the United States in a small room at Parkland Memorial Hospital. Jackie Kennedy was present during the swearing-in ceremony, a poignant and historic moment in American history.
Departure from Parkland Hospital
Following the swift and solemn inauguration, LBJ and Jackie Kennedy, along with Texas Governor John Connally, who had been gravely injured in the assassination, left the hospital. The group was accompanied by a substantial police presence and media coverage, reflecting the chaos and urgency of the moment. A motorcade was arranged to transport them to Dallas Love Field Airport, where the presidential transition would continue.
Transportation to Air Force One
The journey to the airport was a high-security operation. The motorcade was designed to provide a safe and dignified route for the new President and Mrs. Kennedy. The ride to the airport was marked by a heavy police presence and intense media coverage, which highlighted the unprecedented nature of the event. As the motorcade made its way, the urgency of the situation was palpable.
Arrival at Air Force One
Upon arriving at Dallas Love Field Airport, LBJ and Jackie Kennedy boarded Air Force One, which was already prepared for takeoff. At the airport, they were greeted by other officials and the plane's crew. The aircraft was promptly prepared for the urgent flight back to Washington D.C., marking the beginning of a new phase in American governance.
Simultaneously, Emory Roberts assigned Secret Service Agent Jack Ready to an airport gate to swiftly bring Judge Sarah T. Hughes to the airport to swear in LBJ. However, it was later revealed that it would have been more appropriate for Agent Jack Ready to remain by President Kennedy's body, as he was assigned to watch over it that day. Instead, Agent Jack Ready was sent back to Washington on Air Force Two, complicating the logistics of the transition.
The Unusual Departure Times
A Air Force One departed 28 minutes before Air Force Two, but it arrived 85 minutes after Air Force Two touched down in Maryland. This unusual situation was noted by many, highlighting the complex and prioritized nature of emergency logistics in such high-stakes situations.
Agent Sam Kinney, a key figure during the day's events, flew back to Washington in the C-130 that transported the limousine and Secret Service followup car, ensuring that all elements of the security and transition were thoroughly covered.
The journey from Parkland Hospital to Air Force One was a significant moment during a time of national crisis, a pivotal moment in American history that marked the transition of power and the beginning of new leadership in the face of tragedy.