Among the many new bits of information I learned, I discovered that Albert Merriman Smith, aka Smitty was the actual first person to learn of the assassination of JFK. Smith lied about his age to get in the news department. Smith even was buried with the incorrect birthday on his tombstone. Jacqueline Kennedy only trusted info and news from Smitty. The whole state of mind of Smitty as he headed to Texas with President Kennedy was very distraught. With problems at home and financial problems, Smitty was in distress, which left him angry and bitter. A month before Kennedy was to appear in Dallas, the White House received information of a protester spreading a disturbing message. Kennedy's people did not want him to go Dallas due to safety issues. Of course, I knew Jackie Kennedy was loved and respected dearly.
Smith chose to report only information that was not intrusive in the President's life, and not matters like his sexual affairs and his health. I respect Smith for his news ethics during his time. Reading about this tragic event again through the eyes Smith as an up- close news reporter. This is a touching and unnerving story. If you are interested in history, or the truth behind the news reports of this very devastating moment, then this is the book for you.
I give this 4 stars and and I am grateful for the opportunity. Thank you to LSLL for for including me on this book blog tour and for the opportunity to read and review this fascinating book.
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