[Schaumburger]

Originally Posted by Carl in Tampa

President Kennedy was assassinated on Friday, November 22, 1963, in Dallas, Texas.

On the preceding Monday, November 18th he visited Tampa, Florida, where I was working as a Deputy Sheriff.

Among his stops that day was the Ft. Homer Hesterly, Florida National Guard Headquarters. I was initially assigned to provide security at the door where the Presidential motorcade arrived. Once the dignitaries had moved inside I was replaced at that post by a Secret Service agent.

The agent in charge of the site told me he had another assignment for me. Eager to be of assistance I was more than ready.

Imagine my reaction when I was told that I was to guard the door to the mens restroom. But my reaction changed quickly when I was told that the President was inside and I was not to allow anyone else to enter.

A short time later President Kennedy emerged, smiled and nodded to me and said, "Thanks" and proceeded on stage to make a speech.

Being at leisure at that point I walked out to the motorcade cars and looked over the limousine and follow up cars.

Little did I know at the time that I would be recruited by the Secret Service and 18 months later I would be a Secret Service Agent.

Carl, Have you ever considered writing your memoirs? It would be a fascinating read -- IMHO.