FIVE PRESIDENTS

A very good read told in a very simple fashion. Interesting insights. Not a great fan of Nixon I imagine but gave a very positive review of Spiro Agnew as a person who was kind and amiable. Dedicated to his job. I would’ve liked to read more about his life from 1975 onwards, particularly how his relationship developed with his wife and family.

Très instructif

Um excelente testemunho de quem acompanhou de perto o governo de vários presidentes norte-americanos e, pela especial natureza de suas funções, deu o melhor de si para proteger ditos governantes e suas famílias.

This is a fascinating insider view to many of the events in the 1950s, 60s and 70s. First person stories are always interesting but this one was especially intriguing since I never knew much about that Secret Service agent who rushed to the presidential limo as the fist shot rang out in Dallas on that fateful day in 1963. I didn't know his name, now I know his compelling story. Clint Hill takes us through his protection of five different presidents. It was fascinating to see the personality differences in how each president approached the presidency and dealt with their own security. I enjoyed how he provided a limited, behind the scenes perspective of many of the national and world events ranging from the Cuban Missile Crisis, to Vietnam to Watergate. It was also very interesting to hear how the Secret Service works. Hill detailed how he got the job, was promoted and even when he was seemingly demoted to the Kiddie Protection and later protecting the First Lady. The content of the book was very informative without being exploitative. But what I appreciated most was how he detailed it. I have read many biographies and more than a few that write a book to inflate their importance as an attempt to secure their legacy. This story does the opposite. Hill reflects the purpose of the Secret Service when he takes the humble approach, highlighting the service he and his colleagues provided. While we do hear it from his perspective, in many ways the book isn't about him but the role he played in that national story. The book reflects the mindset and attitude of the protective detail of the world's most powerful leader. He writes of the joys, privileges and challenges but not from a "I'm important" but "this is what it was like. We don't hear, read or see that perspective or dedication much anymore. So to hear from someone who sacrifices their private life to protect a public official who they may or may not like or agree with is refreshing, intriguing and informative. For me, the most intriguing theme was how he struggled to deal with losing a president on their watch. Even though he was on the First Lady's protection, he felt personally responsible for JFK's death. That is difficult to comprehend in this self-serving world. He always felt he should have done more. Reading between the lines and what was omitted from the story that happened after he left the service, that one incident haunts today, decades later. I appreciate that he didn't drag us through all his misery. His sense of duty to his country but also to his readers is clear. It now makes sense why he didn't write a book much sooner, trying to capitalize on the tragedy. In the world of scandal and tabloids, I'm sure Clint Hill could have shared many other stories that would have shown a different side of those presidents. I appreciate that he took this approach. This book is not only a great peek behind the scenes but a great lesson in service. We can all learn something from Clint Hill and the Secret Service.

Loved this detailed view of life with the Presidents . Different political views and life styles .....family commitment . Big decisions to make daily .....and long hard work ....Enjoy the authors style of writing , personal , but not intrusive .